Firefighter (Paramedic)

Quick Facts

• Role: Firefighter (Paramedic)

• Schedule: 24-hour rotating shifts; 72-hour weeks

• Focus: Emergency response, firefighting/rescue, and ALS/BLS paramedic care

Description

This position provides emergency response as a Firefighter (Paramedic), performing firefighting and rescue operations while also delivering paramedic-level patient care. Duties are executed according to Standard Operating Guidelines (SOGs) and applicable protocols, including hazardous materials initial response and station/equipment readiness tasks. Work is physically demanding and involves both inside and outside environments, including extreme heat and potentially immediately dangerous conditions.

Responsibilities

• Perform firefighting and rescue operations, including decontamination and crash/rescue support (e.g., helicopter environments)

• Operate ALS and BLS ambulances and firefighting apparatus (e.g., pumpers, aerial ladder trucks, rescue trucks)

• Provide paramedic duties: emergency procedures, patient examinations, EKG/defibrillation/pacing, advanced airway and breathing support, childbirth in emergency situations, and newborn care

• Administer medications/solutions under standing orders and physician direction; calculate doses and document drug effects

• Provide Intermediate Life Support: systematic patient assessment, EKG interpretation, advanced airway procedures via specialized devices, IV fluid starts, and selected medication administration per protocols

• Respond initially to hazardous materials incidents and perform hazard risk assessments

• Maintain the fire station and emergency response equipment; inspect fire protection systems/extinguishers; monitor alarm desk/watch duties; assist with training and fire inspections; perform minor vehicle and equipment repairs

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship

• Complete all required application steps including online assessment

• Pass urinalysis if tentatively selected for the testing-designated position

• Selective Service registration required for males born after 12/31/1959

• Background/security investigation required

• Complete online onboarding and provide acceptable identification (REAL ID compliant)

• Seasonal influenza vaccination program participation required

• Complete required probationary/trial period

• Basic written and spoken English proficiency

• One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least GS-8 in related fire/EMS duties

• Maximum entry age eligibility (cannot have reached 37th birthday by appointment date)

• Valid state motor vehicle operator’s license; ability to operate in all 50 states

• Selective Placement Factors (must be met):
  National Registry and/or West Virginia paramedic certification; IFSAC/Pro Board Driver Operator Pumper Certification or EVOC and Pumps; Firefighter I & Firefighter II; Fire Inspector I; Fire Inspector II (within 24 months after hire); Hazardous Materials Technician Level certification; Confined Space Rescue Operation certification

• Ability to perform moderate to heavy physical effort and participate in a physical fitness program

• Ability to work inside and outside in adverse weather, extreme heat, and potentially immediately dangerous environments

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government includes a comprehensive benefits package; eligibility depends on the position type and schedule.