Firefighter/Paramedic

This position is responsible for responding to fire, rescue, and hazardous materials emergencies. This position is also responsible for performing Basic (BLS) and Advanced (ALS) Life Support procedures, fire prevention, education and training, and equipment maintenance and repairs. Successful applicants will be assigned to a 12- or 24-hour shift.

Lateral applicants are encouraged to apply; consideration of experience in salary placement.

The starting wage for the 24-hour shift is $24.03 per hour. The starting wage for the 12-hour shift is $28.95 per hour, plus a stipend. 

Paramedic Premium: Those who have received/maintained their Paramedic Certification earn an additional $477.41 per month.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

These examples of responsibilities are intended only as an illustration of the various types of work performed and are not meant to be inclusive. The position description is subject to change as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change. 

• Performs firefighting activities including fire apparatus, operating pumps and related equipment, laying hose, and performing fire suppression, containment, ventilation, and extinguishment risks. 
• Perform Basic (BLS) and Advanced (ALS) Life Support procedures. 
• Directs and supervises fire personnel at scenes of emergencies and during cleanup operations when equipment apparatus is being decontaminated and put back in service. 
• Safely operates all Fire Apparatus vehicles, Emergency Medical Service vehicles, and specialty vehicles of the Hastings Fire Department including but not limited to Aerial Towers, Class A Pumpers, Grass Fire Rigs, Tankers, #1001, and OSHA Standards as may be amended;
• Hazardous Materials Operations - Performs duties in accordance with NFPA #472 and OSHA Standards (as may be amended) for hazardous materials incidents. 
• Public Education - conducts public education on fire prevention, emergency medical techniques, fire suppression activities, personnel safety, and other related areas as assigned. 
• Training Instruction - Responsible for developing and conducting Fire and EMS training to department personnel on a regular basis to assure compliance with applicable agencies, including but not limited to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Federal and State Occupational Safety and Health Administrations (OSHA), National Registry of Emergency Technicians at the Basic and Paramedic levels. Instructors are required to maintain continuous self-development to ensure proper training skills, techniques, and information.
• Apparatus and Equipment Maintenance - Performs regular performance checks on all firefighting, EMS equipment, and vehicles and documents and coordinates to ensure needed repairs are made in a timely manner. Maintain records of operational checks and repairs in accordance with OSHA, NFPA, and DOT standards. Repair of equipment as needed or directed.
• Building and Grounds Maintenance - Performs routine maintenance of grounds and building equipment and structural contents. Coordinates with appropriate building maintenance personnel in accordance with OSHA standards.
• May serve as Fire Ground Officer when first on the scene (until relieved) to initiate the Incident Management System, including but not limited to Size Up, Scene Safety, Personnel Accountability, Apparatus Placement, Suppression, Rescue, Logistics, and EMS.
• Perform other duties as required, assigned, or apparent.
• Regular attendance is required.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent;
• Must possess minimum certification equal to the State of Minnesota’s equivalent for:
  1. Firefighter I
  2. Firefighter II
  3. Hazardous Materials Operations
  4. Certified Paramedic
• Possess a National Registry Emergency Medical Technician - Paramedic.
• Meet required NFPA medical and physical standards
• Valid driver’s license.
• Microsoft programs and computer functions as well as related equipment
• Minnesota Licensed Firefighter or ability to obtain a Minnesota Firefighter License.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in a fire-related area.
• Knowledge of and familiarity with Fire and Building Codes
• Fire experience (firefighter, investigation, fire code administration)
• Ambulance/medical experience.
• Apparatus Operator I Certification
• Technical Rescue Certifications

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities 

• Thorough knowledge of modern fire suppression and prevention and emergency medical services procedures, techniques, and equipment; considerable knowledge of applicable laws, ordinances, departmental standard operating guidelines, and regulations.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, using proper business English, spelling, and grammar.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with all co-workers, city staff, the public, and other agency personnel.
• Ability to function in a calm and professional manner during stressful emergency situations.
• Good working knowledge of personal computers and common software applications, such as but not limited to Word,  Excel, Access, and Outlook.
• Ability to learn new computer applications and office equipment as needed.
• Ability to address public concerns regarding fire safety and emergency services in a caring manner.
• Ability to communicate effectively in person and while using radios and telephones.
• Ability to effectively multitask and work in an environment consisting of a variety of duties occurring simultaneously.