Firefighter-EMT

Must have the physical, developmental and mental ability to perform job tasks, work efforts, responsibilities and duties of the job illustrated. 

The job description herein provides for the range of duties to be performed for this position. It is not intended to reflect all duties that are required within this position.

MAJOR FUNCTION

This is responsible technical and skilled work in firefighting and emergency medical technician including the preservation of life and protection of property against fire and related hazards, in rendering out of hospital life support functions, other emergency care and rescue services.

Duties include the operation and maintenance of Fire Rescue Division vehicles and equipment.

ILLUSTRATIVE DUTIES

Work involves responsibility for the protection of life and property through firefighting and rescue operations, usually under close supervision. Employees of this class are also required to learn and participate in the operation of firefighting equipment and apparatus. Although firefighting and emergency rescue work, including the administration of emergency medical treatment, are the most difficult and responsible areas of activity, a major portion of time is spent on pre-fire surveys; training, studying methods, techniques and organization of firefighting and on routine duties in the care and maintenance of Fire Department property and equipment. Work involves an element of personal danger and requires working on extended shifts. Work is usually performed in accordance with explicit instructions and well-defined procedures; however, satisfactory performance of the work requires initiative and a thorough individual understanding of the methods, equipment and principles of firefighting, fire prevention, rescue and emergency medical techniques in meeting a wide variety of emergencies.

Firefighters with appropriate specialized training may work in the assignment of Hazardous Materials Technician, Technical Rescue Member and Apparatus Operator/Driver or assigned to an Emergency Medical Unit. Firefighters who serve in the additional role of paramedic must also perform the illustrative duties outlined in the Paramedic job description.

Responds to alarms of fire or other emergencies; dons’ personal protective equipment; works in enclosed areas; lays and connects hoses; holds nozzles which direct water streams; raises and climbs ladders; uses chemical extinguishers, bars, hooks, lines and other equipment.

Responds to alarms of fire or other emergencies often performing dutiesfor an extended period of time while wearingself-contained breathing apparatus in high temperatures and with limited vision.

Ventilates structures in accordance with applied knowledge; removes victims from serious auto accidents, structures on fire, or other dangerous situations; administers emergency medical care to injured persons; performs property conservation (salvage) operations; assists in clean-up operation after the fire is suppressed.

May be assigned as a driver of a vehicle or apparatus; checks radio operability; responsible for maintaining apparatus, equipment, inventory and other logs; may communicate by radio from fire, rescue and other emergency scenes.

May be assigned as the operator of a heavy-duty diesel-powered pumper truck or aerial truck; directs hose connections at pump; operates pumps, making sure proper pressure and water flow is maintained; operates aerial ladder or snorkel power lift.

Operates fire apparatus to and from the fire or rescue scene over the optimal route at high speeds in the safest and most efficient manner in accordance with departmental policy.

Participates in the on-duty company physical fitness program.

Participates in fire drills and attends training classes in firefighting, emergency medical techniques and related subjects; participates in pre-fire surveys of industrial and other business buildings, hospitals, nursing homes, schools and multi-family dwellings; prepares floor plans, records and locates key items on floor plans of facilities for departmental use in the event of fires, disasters or other emergencies.

Responds to a variety of emergency calls requiring the performance of a variety of emergency medical skills, such as administering oxygen, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, emergency medical care and related tasks. 

Performs general maintenance and cleaning work in the upkeep of apparatus, equipment, furnishings and structures.

Aids in the evacuation of portions of the county during natural or other disasters. Assists law enforcement agencies in the investigation of arson cases.

Performs related work as assigned.

Ability to analyze situations quickly and objectively and to determine the proper course of action.

Ability to react quickly and calmly under emergency conditions.

Considerable knowledge of the operating and mechanical principles involved in automotive equipment operation.

Ability to become familiar with the roadway/highway systems within Polk County.

Skill and dexterity in the use and manipulation of tools and apparatus used in fighting fires and performing emergency medical care.

Ability to learn and efficiently perform a wide variety of firefighting and rescue duties, methods and techniques.

Ability to climb stairs in multiple story buildings carrying heavy tools and equipment.

Ability to perform physically demanding duties such as carrying victims; hoisting equipment using ropes; using heavy equipment to force entry into or ventilation of structures; use of hand and mechanical tools to extricate patients of automobile accidents.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships as necessitated by the work. Ability to climb ladders and work at considerable heights.

Ability to understand and execute complex oral and written instructions quickly.

Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language in an understandable manner.

Ability to perform limited mechanical work involved in maintaining firefighting and rescue apparatus, equipment and tools.

Ability to work as a part of a team and to exercise independent judgment as required. Ability to drive or operate large fire vehicles in a safe and efficient manner.

Ability to cope with stressful situations firmly, courteously and tactfully, and with respect for the rights of others. Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Graduate of an accredited high school or possess an acceptable equivalency diploma and have a valid Certificate of Compliance as outlined in the Florida Division of State Fire Marshal Uniform Fire Safety Rules and Standards Chapter 69A-37, or a verification letter indicating that the individual meets the above requirements and will be issued a Certificate of Compliance from the Florida Division of State Fire Marshal, Bureau of Fire Standards and Training Office.