Firefighter Paramedic Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an ever-changing world, the role of firefighter paramedics is more crucial than ever.

Emergencies and disasters are unpredictable, and with each crisis, the demand for skilled professionals who can respond, rescue, and provide emergency medical care increases.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a firefighter paramedic?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this position,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the day-to-day of a firefighter paramedic,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable firefighter paramedic job description template, designed for simple posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Firefighter Paramedic Duties and Responsibilities

Firefighter Paramedics are trained professionals who are skilled at both firefighting and providing medical emergency services.

They are often first responders in emergency situations where medical assistance is required, and are also adept at controlling and extinguishing fires.

The duties and responsibilities of a Firefighter Paramedic include:

• Responding to fire alarms and extinguishing fires
• Performing rescue activities and reducing damage from water and smoke
• Providing emergency medical services including first aid, CPR, and other immediate assistance
• Assessing patient’s condition and determining a course of treatment
• Transporting patients safely in an ambulance
• Driving and operating fire engines and other firefighting or rescue equipment
• Maintaining fire equipment, apparatus, quarters, and operating equipment
• Participating in fire drills and attending classes in firefighting, first-aid, and related subjects
• Ensuring adherence to fire laws and regulations
• Preparing written reports on emergency incidents

 

Firefighter Paramedic Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Firefighter Paramedic to join our team.

The primary responsibilities of this role include responding to emergency situations, providing efficient and immediate care to the critically ill and injured, and transporting patients to medical facilities.

The ideal candidate has a passion for public service, a strong understanding of firefighting and paramedic principles, and can thrive in high-pressure situations.

 

Responsibilities

• Respond to emergency calls and provide medical assistance to injured individuals
• Perform firefighting activities including driving fire apparatus, operating pumps and related equipment, laying hose, and performing fire combat, containment and extinguishment tasks
• Perform rescues and hazard assessments
• Administer first aid and CPR
• Prepare patients for transport to hospital
• Maintain equipment and ensure proper working condition
• Participate in training and continue education to enhance job-related skills
• Cooperate with police and other emergency personnel
• Document patient information, condition, and treatment

 

Qualifications

• Current State Paramedic License
• Proven work experience as a firefighter paramedic
• Ability to work under pressure and stay calm in emergency situations
• Knowledge of emergency medical procedures and protocols
• Excellent physical condition and stamina
• High school diploma or equivalent; Paramedic degree or diploma is preferred
• Valid driver’s license
• Successful completion of a firefighter academy program

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Pension plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Firefighter Paramedic
• Work Environment: This job involves high physical demands, significant firefighting gear and equipment usage, and exposure to potentially dangerous situations and environments.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Fire Lieutenant or Fire Captain.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $46,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Firefighter Paramedic Do?

Firefighter Paramedics are highly skilled professionals who work in emergency medical service units or fire departments.

They are trained both in fire suppression and providing emergency medical care, making them crucial players in public safety.

Their primary role is to respond to emergency situations such as fires, accidents, and medical emergencies.

In the event of fires, they are responsible for extinguishing them, rescuing individuals, and limiting property damage.

They use a variety of firefighting equipment like hoses, fire extinguishers, and ladders, and are often required to wear heavy protective gear.

In addition to firefighting, they provide advanced life support to patients at the scene of emergencies.

They conduct medical evaluations, administer first aid, perform advanced medical procedures, and provide life-saving interventions such as CPR or defibrillation.

They are responsible for the stabilization of patients before and during the transport to medical facilities.

Firefighter Paramedics also spend a significant amount of time in the upkeep of their equipment and vehicles, ensuring everything is ready to respond to an emergency at a moment’s notice.

They may also be involved in educating the public about fire safety and prevention, as well as providing information on what to do in a medical emergency.

This role requires physical strength, stamina, courage, the ability to remain calm under pressure, and excellent problem-solving skills.

 

Firefighter Paramedic Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Firefighter Paramedic should possess a multitude of skills and qualifications to effectively respond to emergency situations, including:

• Medical knowledge and skills to provide appropriate pre-hospital emergency care, from the ability to assess a patient’s condition to performing advanced life-support techniques.
• Physical stamina and strength to carry heavy equipment, move debris, and transport injured victims, often in high-stress situations.
• Strong decision-making skills to evaluate and respond to a variety of emergency medical situations quickly and efficiently.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively interact with patients, their families, and other emergency service personnel, often during times of stress and trauma.
• Awareness of safety protocols and emergency procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of patients and team members.
• Ability to operate emergency vehicles and equipment, such as fire trucks, hoses, and other firefighting and rescue tools.
• Technical skills to maintain and use medical equipment, such as defibrillators, backboards, and oxygen delivery systems.
• Interpersonal skills to work effectively in a team-oriented environment, often under high-stress conditions.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly evaluate and respond to a wide range of medical and fire emergencies.

 

Firefighter Paramedic Experience Requirements

Firefighter Paramedics are expected to have a substantial level of experience in their field due to the high-risk nature of their work.

This experience is usually gained through rigorous and specialized training programs followed by field experiences.

To start, prospective Firefighter Paramedics generally have to gain an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification.

This is usually followed by two years of experience as an EMT, which provides hands-on experience with emergency medical situations.

Following this, candidates are required to complete a paramedic training program, which can take between 1-2 years and offers a mix of classroom learning and field internships.

Once certified as a Paramedic, some fire departments require individuals to have one or more years of experience as a Paramedic before they can apply for a Firefighter Paramedic role.

Other departments may allow simultaneous training as a firefighter and paramedic.

In terms of firefighting experience, candidates are usually expected to complete a fire academy program or have experience as a volunteer firefighter.

This provides practical firefighting experience and familiarizes individuals with the equipment and protocols used in the field.

For senior Firefighter Paramedic roles, departments may require candidates to have at least 3-5 years of experience in a Firefighter Paramedic role, with demonstrated leadership skills and a track record of performing well in high-pressure situations.

 

Firefighter Paramedic Education and Training Requirements

A Firefighter Paramedic typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum educational requirement.

They must also complete Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) basic training, which usually takes between six months to a year.

After becoming a certified EMT, they must then complete a paramedic training program, which typically lasts between 1,200 to 1,800 hours and can take one to two years to complete.

Once the paramedic training is complete, they must pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) paramedic exam to become a certified paramedic.

In addition to the EMT and paramedic training, they must also complete a fire academy program to become a firefighter.

The length of fire academy programs varies by state, but generally last between three and six months.

Most states also require Firefighter Paramedics to be licensed.

Licensing requirements vary by state, but generally require the individual to be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver’s license, pass a background check, and pass physical fitness and written tests.

Continuing education is important in this role due to the constantly evolving nature of medical care.

Firefighter Paramedics may pursue advanced training in areas such as hazardous materials response and technical rescue.

Additionally, maintaining paramedic certification typically requires ongoing education and recertification every two to three years.

 

Firefighter Paramedic Salary Expectations

A Firefighter Paramedic can expect to earn an average salary of $49,620 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience, level of education, geographical location, and the specific department they work for.

 

Firefighter Paramedic Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Firefighter Paramedic need?

Firefighter Paramedics should possess excellent problem-solving skills, as they are often required to perform under high-pressure situations and make quick decisions.

Physical stamina is essential, as the role involves physically demanding tasks such as carrying heavy equipment and patients.

They should also have strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact with patients, their family members, and other emergency response teams.

Additionally, they need to have a solid understanding of medical procedures and protocols and the ability to apply these in emergency situations.

 

Do Firefighter Paramedics need a degree?

While a degree is not necessarily required, Firefighter Paramedics must have at least a high school diploma or GED.

They should also complete EMT and Paramedic training and receive state certification.

Some departments may prefer candidates with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in fire science or a related field.

 

What should you look for in a Firefighter Paramedic resume?

A Firefighter Paramedic resume should include their certifications and state licensure, including EMT and Paramedic credentials.

They should also list any physical fitness tests passed, as well as any experience in firefighting or emergency medical service roles.

Other important aspects to consider are their experience with specific emergency response situations, and any additional training or coursework related to the role.

 

What qualities make a good Firefighter Paramedic?

A good Firefighter Paramedic should be able to remain calm and make sound decisions under high-pressure situations.

They should be empathetic, as they often deal with individuals who are in distress.

Physically, they should be fit and have the stamina to handle physically demanding tasks.

They should also be detail-oriented to accurately assess situations and provide appropriate medical care.

 

Is it difficult to hire Firefighter Paramedics?

Hiring Firefighter Paramedics can be challenging due to the demanding nature of the job and the specific qualifications needed.

It requires individuals with both firefighting and medical skills, who are also physically fit and mentally resilient.

As such, the pool of qualified candidates is relatively small, and competition for skilled individuals can be high.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unearthed the true essence of being a firefighter paramedic.

Surprised?

It’s not just about extinguishing fires or providing immediate medical care.

It’s about safeguarding lives and properties, one emergency call at a time.

With our handy firefighter paramedic job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to take the plunge.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating razor-sharp listings or honing your resume to flawlessness.

Remember:

Every emergency call responded to is a step towards a safer community.

Let’s ensure safety. Together.

How to Become a Firefighter Paramedic (Complete Guide)

The Unaffected: Careers That Stay Strong in Economic Downturns

The Hot List: Top Trending Jobs in Today’s Market

The Paycheck Shock: Uncovering the Truth Behind America’s Least Paying Jobs!

Bizarrely Brilliant: The Most Unusual Careers in the World