Firefighter/Paramedic

Please visit the Fire Page for more information on the hiring process.

Under general supervision of the Station Captain, this position is to perform firefighting, emergency medical, and rescue work in emergency situations.  This position responds to service calls: provides fire suppression operations, rescue operations, basic and advanced life support under the McLean County EMS System protocols, fire prevention and public safety education, and maintains apparatus, equipment and fire stations.This list of tasks is illustrative only, and not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by the position.

• Performs emergency response activities including fire suppression, rescue, and driving emergency response vehicles while providing for the safety of other vehicles, pedestrians, and fire personnel.
• A firefighter/paramedic/EMT shall:
• Demonstrate the ability to be effective, safe, and efficient during fire ground operations in accordance with department training and standard operating guidelines.
• Operate as an effective team member and follow the direction of an officer.
• Wear safety equipment issued such as SCBA, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), (turn out gear and all associated items) when applicable according to department guidelines.
• Be capable of performing independent tasks when directed without close supervision within the scope of their training.
• Performs emergency medical services and paramedic activities including administering first aid, basic life support, advanced life support and other related assistance as required. Provide medical care to sick or injured in accordance with established patient care protocols.
• A firefighter/paramedic/EMT shall:
  1. Operate effectively and safely as an EMT-Basic or Paramedic.
  2. Demonstrate patient assessment and treatment skills to the standard of care accepted in the McLean County Area Emergency Medical Service System. (MCAEMS)
  3. Maintain an adequate inventory supply onboard medical vehicles as outlined in departmental SOPs.
  4. Wear appropriate safety and PPE per department and MCAEMS guidelines.
  5. Drive/operate fire department vehicles following the departments standard operating policies (SOP’s). Safe vehicle operation is a significant responsibility of all employees.
  6. Exercise care, accuracy and completeness in documenting patient care reports within Image Trend.
• The duties of a Firefighter/Paramedic/EMT include providing training to new and current members of the fire department in both fire and EMS skills, serving as a field internship preceptor for department members, and completing all required documentation related to training activities.
• Assists in public education events, pre-plans and fire prevention activities.
• Operates radio and other communication equipment. Communicates effectively with command, dispatch, and hospital emergency staff.
• Display a professional, respectful, calm, and courteous manner at all times around the station and while in public to both fire department personnel and citizens.
• Be capable of independent work involving the proper checks, maintenance and cleaning of department apparatus, equipment or stations.
• Participate in scheduled training and independent self-study programs to maintain and improve job knowledge and skills.
• Maintain a professional appearance and be physically capable of performing all duties as assigned.
• Display and promote a positive work/mental attitude while on the job.
• Other related duties as assigned.

• Firefighter Certification: State of Illinois Office of the State Fire Marshal certification at the Firefighter II level or Basic Operations Firefighter.
• EMS Certification: State of Illinois Licensure as an EMT-Basic or Paramedic.
• Knowledge of the Fire Department Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s)
• Knowledge of the Collective Bargaining Agreement with Local 49.
• Must possess and maintain a valid State of Illinois issued driver’s license.  Class B non-CDL “minimum”.

The Firefighter/Paramedic/EMT is required to work in a variety of environments and locations, including extreme weather conditions and hazardous situations.   Strenuous physical activity is often required.  The Firefighter/Paramedic/EMT as bid per the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) will be assigned to a fire apparatus or ambulance by the Battalion Chief.  The Firefighter/Paramedic/EMT will respond to calls for service as dispatched by the Bloomington Dispatch Center.   

Example of equipment or tools used by the Firefighter/Paramedic/EMT-
Portable and mobile radios
Computer and I-pad
Personal protective equipment including Self-contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)
Routine suppression equipment, such as ladders, axes, hose lines, etc.
Extrication equipment
EMS equipment such as cardiac monitors, cot, intubation equipment, ALS medications, etc.