Copy of FTO Driver

Carolina First EMS•Elgin, SC

About The Position

The Field Training Officer (FTO) – EMS Driver at Carolina First EMS is responsible for safely operating emergency vehicles while providing mentorship, evaluation, and hands-on training to newly hired EMS Drivers. The FTO ensures all assigned trainees demonstrate competency in ambulance operations, safety compliance, patient care support functions, equipment usage, software systems, and professional conduct in accordance with agency policies, state regulations, and established training standards. The FTO is directly responsible for verifying that each new employee is competent and prepared to be cleared for independent duty. This position combines operational excellence with leadership and instructional responsibilities to support the development of safe, skilled, and professional EMS Drivers.

Requirements

Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record in accordance with agency policy.
Current CPR/AED/Basic First Aid certification.
Successful completion of Carolina First EMS Driver onboarding program.
Demonstrated proficiency in emergency vehicle operations.
Strong communication, leadership, and evaluation skills.
Availability to work weekends.

Nice To Haves

Prior EMS experience.
Previous training or instructional experience.

Responsibilities

Safely operate ambulances in accordance with all applicable state laws, agency policies, and emergency vehicle operation standards.
Demonstrate and teach defensive driving techniques and safe response protocols.
Always drive with due regard for public and crew safety.
Utilize a designated backer when reversing the ambulance and ensure trainees follow proper backing procedures.
Provide structured field training to new EMS Drivers following the onboarding and education plan established by the Training Manager.
Ensure each new employee demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and judgment required to perform assigned duties safely and effectively prior to being cleared from training.
Assess and document trainee competency in all operational, safety, and support functions.
Provide constructive, documented feedback and remedial instruction when necessary.
Communicate trainee progress, strengths, deficiencies, and final clearance recommendations to the Operations Manager and Training Manager as required.
Withhold clearance and notify leadership if a trainee does not meet established competency standards.
Train and evaluate new employees on the proper and safe use of all patient movement devices, including but not limited to stretchers, stair chairs, slide sheets, and other lifting/movement equipment.
Ensure trainees demonstrate safe body mechanics and compliance with lifting and safety policies.
Train and verify proficiency in all required agency software systems, documentation platforms, communication tools, and onboard equipment necessary to perform job duties effectively.
Confirm trainees can accurately complete required documentation and properly operate all assigned equipment prior to release from training.
Perform and instruct trainees on daily vehicle inspections, including fluid levels, tire condition, safety equipment, and operational readiness checks.
Ensure the ambulance is cleaned, restocked, fueled, and prepared for service at the end of each shift.
Submit maintenance requests promptly for identified vehicle deficiencies.
Assist EMTs and lead providers by retrieving equipment and supplies during patient care operations.
Remain with the assigned lead provider during patient care activities and while outside the unit.
Respond to life-threatening situations by performing basic interventions, including CPR and AED use, when indicated.
Co-sign patient care reports (PCRs) alongside the lead provider prior to shift completion, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Maintain clear, professional communication with the Team Lead, Dispatch, hospital personnel, and other emergency responders.
Serve as a role model for professionalism, teamwork, accountability, and ethical conduct.
Promote a culture of safety, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.