Firefighter Trainee - EMT (Entry Level)

City of Fremont•Fremont, CA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Fremont Fire Department is recruiting for the position of FIREFIGHTER TRAINEE (EMT). This is an exceptional opportunity for individuals who are passionate about serving their community, thrive in fast-paced and challenging environments, and are committed to making a difference when it matters most. The Firefighter Trainee is a temporary, non-sworn trainee-level classification in the Firefighter series, characterized by the responsibility to obtain the training and education necessary to provide emergency services in fire suppression, fire prevention, first responder medical services, hazardous material response, and emergency rescue. Firefighter Trainees are hired into this classification for the duration of the Training Academy and any additional, subsequent training programs deemed necessary to be eligible for appointment to the Firefighter classification. As a condition of employment, incumbents shall obtain and maintain an Emergency Medical Technician certification or Alameda County Emergency Medical Services Paramedic Accreditation. Through a combination of general and specialized classroom instruction, and hands-on training, Firefighter Trainees develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform a wide range of fire service tasks in accordance with Fremont Fire Department policies, procedures, and standards. The work performed is physically demanding, involves potential risk to health and safety, and is performed under close supervision with regular evaluation and feedback. Firefighter Trainees must graduate from the Training Academy and be appointed to the Firefighter classification to retain employment with the Fremont Fire Department. Incumbents who do not successfully complete the Firefighter training Academy will be terminated automatically. The Firefighter Trainee classification is distinguishable from the Firefighter classification in that the former is a temporary classification for recruiting and training purposes only, and incumbents are not engaged in emergency response.

Requirements

Be listed on the Firefighter Candidate Testing Center (FCTC) Statewide Eligibility List.
Have a valid FCTC Written Test completed within 12 months of the application deadline (between August 8, 2025, and August 7, 2026).
Have a valid Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) card issued within 12 months of the application deadline (between August 8, 2025, and August 7, 2026).
Resume
California EMT Certificate (or equivalent as determined by the Fire Chief), or National Registry EMT Card
CPR Card
Must possess or have the ability to obtain and maintain a valid Class C California Driver's License and a satisfactory driving record.
Must be at least 18 years old on the date the final application is submitted.
Must be willing to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Graduation from High School, possession of an acceptable equivalency certificate, such as the General Educational Development Certificate (State of California), or any higher-level degree from an accredited college or university and active placement on the Firefighter Candidate Testing Center (FCTC) State Eligibility List on or before the last day for filing of the application.
Basic life support or Advance Life Support emergency care knowledge.
Knowledge of principles and techniques for working with groups and fostering effective team interaction.
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Knowledge of computers and software programs (e.g., Microsoft software packages) to conduct, compile, and/or generate documentation.
Ability to comprehend, retain, interpret and apply information learned in a classroom setting, which may be of a complex and technical nature.
Ability to learn general principles and practices of firefighting activities including fire suppression and prevention, hazardous materials, rescue and salvage operations, radio communications, and water systems.
Ability to learn to perform physical and strenuous firefighting work requiring physical strength, coordination, balance, endurance, and flexibility in a safe and effective manner.
Ability to learn the standard operation and uses of fire suppression equipment, apparatus, and vehicle extrication operations.
Ability to understand and act in accordance with departmental policies, rules and regulations as well as instructional materials related to firefighting and emergency treatment responses.
Ability to prepare clear reports and other written materials.
Ability to administer CPR or Advanced Life Support emergency medical services at the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Paramedic level.
Ability to conduct patient assessments.
Ability to recognize dangerous situations and make sound, independent decisions.
Ability to independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
Ability to establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with Training Academy classmates, cadre, assigned training companies, battalion chiefs, command staff, and administrative staff.
Ability to identify and accurately recall and document significant events or details.
Ability to understand and follow written and oral instructions.
Ability to use computer systems and software applications.
Ability to recognize potential danger.

Nice To Haves

Possession of current and valid State of California Emergency Medical Services Authority Paramedic License.
Possession of an Associate’s (AS or AA) degree or higher from an accredited college.
Bilingual skills (oral and written); or American Sign Language (ASL).

Responsibilities

Receive training in firefighting lectures, and practical training sessions as directed by the cadre coordinator and assigned training companies.
Receive training in firefighting activities such as fire suppression, wildfire operations, wildland operations, hose evolutions, nozzle evolutions, use of extrication tools such as chain saws, axes, jaws of life, ladder raises, ropes and knots, fire extinguishers, water supply systems, fire prevention, public safety education, radio operations, salvage and overhaul operations.
Learn Fremont Fire Department policies, procedures, standard operating guidelines, and applicable administrative regulations.
Successfully complete Training Academy requirements and other training assigned by the Fire Department.
Develops proficiency in the following areas: emergency medical services, rescue work, firefighting and other emergency services, physical conditioning and training, and any other subjects included in the Training Academy.
Understands and interprets laws and regulations.
Safely operate firefighting equipment including, but not limited to, hoses, nozzles, ladders, pickaxes chain saws, crowbars, hydraulic rescue tools, and sledgehammers.
Climb stairs with hose bundle/pack or other necessary equipment in order to facilitate the extinguishment of fires.
Advance and maneuver charged and uncharged house line up ladders.
Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with Training Academy classmates, cadre, supervisors and other fire service officials.
Follows oral and written instructions in a timely and effective manner.

Benefits

Medical – A variety of plans are offered through CalPERS.
Dental – Plans are offered through Delta Dental.
Vision – Plans are offered through VSP.
Health Benefit Allowance – The City contributes up to $2,900 towards health benefit premiums (medical, dental and vision) and unused allowance up to $580 is paid monthly to the employee.
Retirement Health Savings Plan – IAFF employees contribute 2% of their base pay towards a Retirement Health Savings (RHS) plan.
Retirement – As defined by the Public Employees’ Pension Reform Act of 2013 (PEPRA) and in the CalPERS retirement system: Classic Members (Tier 2—hired on or after 4/8/12) will receive CalPERS retirement benefits under the 3% at age 55 plan. New Members (Hired on or after 1/1/13) will receive CalPERS retirement benefits under the 2.7% at age 57 plan.
Deferred Compensation Voluntary Plan Options – The City offers two optional 457 plans for employee participation.
Income Protection – The City provides basic plan coverage for Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment and Long Term Disability with additional coverage available for purchase by the employee.
Flexible Benefit Plan – Employees have the option to contribute tax-free income for medical premiums, healthcare reimbursement and dependent care reimbursement.
Uniform Allowance - $700/year
Paid Fire Training Academy
48/96 work schedule after completion of the Academy
Excellent development and training opportunities