Firefighter Paramedic / Firefighter Paramedic - Lateral

FLSA: Non-Exempt
Probationary Period: 12 months & 6 months (Lateral)
Bargaining Unit: Firefighters’ Association
 
JOB SUMMARY
Under general supervision, responds to fire, rescue, medical emergency calls; provides basic and advanced life support to injured persons; maintains related response equipment and supplies including response unit and related devices; protects life and property endangered by fire or other hazards; assists in maintenance of stations and equipment; supports public relations; participates in drills and training related to fire suppression; and performs fire suppression duties as needed.

Tentative Recruitment Plan:  The following is the tentative exam schedule and plan for this recruitment.  The City reserves the right to amend the recruitment plan as it deems necessary.  

• Week of 03/23/26 - Oral Board Interview/Paramedic Skills Examination
• Week of 04/06/26 - Fire Chief Interview
•  Anticipated start date - May 18, 2026

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to this class.

1. Responds to fire, rescue, and medical aid calls.
2. Provides basic and advanced life support and transportation to sick and injured persons.
3. Responds to alarms in a wide variety of emergency situations as a member of an assigned crew. 
4. Fights fires as directed; ventilates buildings; lays hoses; directs streams of water; extricates endangered persons; climbs ladders; enters involved structures utilizing prescribed procedures.
5. Administers first aid; operates resuscitators; assists in providing medical treatment.
6. Assists in maintenance of fire vehicles, rescue units and other apparatus and equipment.
7. Inventory supplies on a regular basis and maintains an adequate number of necessary items needed for medical aid calls.
8. Attends drills and classes; studies technical periodicals and publications; and maintains all current certifications as required by the State of California.
9. Cleans up and performs salvage work after fires.
10. Inspects business establishments, residences, public buildings, warehouses, and other buildings in the enforcement of laws and regulations pertaining to fire prevention; prepares reports and maintains records of inspections.
11. Conducts public education activities.
12. Performs other related duties as required.

1. Basic mathematics and principles of mechanics; understanding of elementary principles of chemistry and physics are desirable.
2. Basic and advanced life saving techniques.
3. Use and application of related rescue and medical first aid equipment is required.
4. Departmental rules and regulations.
5. Federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing fire prevention and safety.
6. The geography of the City, the location of water mains and fire hydrants.
7. Modern fire prevention and suppression methods.

1. Read and understand technical materials relating to firefighting, prevention, and departmental regulations.
2. Apply elementary principles of chemistry and physics to firefighting problems.
3. Understand and follow written and verbal directions under both routine and stressful conditions.
4. Work effectively under emergency conditions and use sound judgment under hazardous circumstances.
5. Work independently and as a team member
6. Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
7. Maintain cooperative working relations.
8. Work effectively and courteously with the public.
9. Physical endurance and agility.
10. Write simple reports.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education, Training and Experience
Graduation from high school or GED equivalent is required.
 
Successful completion of an approved paramedic program certified by the State of California Board of Fire Services AND successful completion of an approved basic fire science academy certified by the State of California Board of Fire Services. California Firefighter I Certificate satisfies successful completion of an approved basic fire science academy certified by the State of California Board of Fire Services.
 
Licenses/ Certifications/ Special Requirements

1. Must be 18 years of age at time of appointment. 
2. Prior to hire, the individual shall be required to successfully pass a background investigation and a physical examination, including a drug screen.
3. A valid California Class C Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record is required.
4. A valid Firefighter “F” Endorsement must be obtained within the first twelve (12) months of employment.
5. A valid EMT/Paramedic License. 
6. American Red Cross or any other Fire Department approved accredited certification in CPR.
7. California Fire Academy Diploma.
8. California Firefighter I Certificate satisfies academy diploma requirement.
9. Candidate Physical Ability Test Certification (CPAT or Biddle), either certification is valid at time of application and at time of employment.
10. Laterals shall have completed 24 months (Full time) with a California Fire Department and poses a California State Firefighter I Certificate. (Firefighter II highly desired)
11. Current active and valid status on the Firefighter Candidate Testing Center (FCTC) list can substitute the following:

Recruitment Examination Overview:
Candidates will be required to successfully complete the following steps in the selection process:

1. Written Examination 
   • Must have a current, active, and valid status on the Firefighter Candidate Testing Center (FCTC) list.
   • Must have achieved a passing score of 75% or higher to be considered for the next steps.
2. Oral Board Interview and Paramedic Skills Evaluation
   • Candidates will participate in a structured interview to assess communication skills, problem-solving ability and job-related knowledge.
   • Candidates will demonstrate proficiency in essential paramedic skills through hands-on exercises.