Firefighter / EMT

Department: Operations
Reports To: Lieutenant, Captain, Deputy Chief, or Fire Chief

Position Summary

The Northwest Fire Protection District is seeking motivated, service-oriented Firefighter/Emergency Medical Technicians (Firefighter/EMTs) to join our team. Under the direction of company officers, Firefighter/EMTs respond to fire suppression, emergency medical services, rescue incidents, hazardous materials emergencies, public service calls, and other emergencies while providing exceptional customer service to the community.

Members are expected to demonstrate professionalism, integrity, teamwork, accountability, and a commitment to continuous improvement while maintaining the highest standards of public safety.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Fire Suppression

• Respond to structure fires, vehicle fires, wildland fires, and other fire emergencies.

• Perform fire attack, search and rescue, ventilation, salvage, overhaul, water supply, and exposure protection.

• Operate fire apparatus, pumps, hose lines, ladders, and firefighting equipment.

• Utilize self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and personal protective equipment (PPE) safely and effectively.

• Participate in pre-fire planning and fire prevention activities.

Emergency Medical Services

• Respond to medical emergencies and provide Basic Life Support (BLS) care in accordance with Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), Regional EMS, and District protocols.

• Perform patient assessments, airway management, CPR, AED use, bleeding control, splinting, spinal motion restriction, medication administration within EMT scope, and other approved interventions.

• Assist paramedics during Advanced Life Support (ALS) incidents.

• Safely package, move, and transport patients.

• Complete accurate electronic patient care reports (ePCRs) and required EMS documentation.

Rescue Operations

• Participate in vehicle extrication, technical rescue, water rescue support, and other emergency rescue operations within the department's capabilities.

• Assist with incident stabilization and scene safety.

Daily Operations

• Inspect, clean, maintain, and test apparatus, medical equipment, SCBA, tools, and station facilities.

• Participate in station duties, inventory management, and equipment readiness.

• Maintain assigned uniforms and protective equipment.

• Conduct public education and community risk reduction activities.

• Participate in department meetings, training, drills, and continuing education.

Documentation

• Complete incident reports, EMS reports, inspection forms, training records, and other required documentation accurately and timely.

• Maintain compliance with department policies, EMS System requirements, OSHA standards, and applicable state regulations.

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants must possess:

• High school diploma or GED.

• Illinois Department of Public Health Licensed EMT (or ability to obtain prior to employment).

• National Registry EMT (preferred or required if applicable).

• Illinois Office of the State Fire Marshal Basic Operations Firefighter (BOF) certification.

• Valid Illinois Driver's License.

• Current American Heart Association Healthcare Provider BLS CPR certification.

• Ability to successfully complete department orientation and probationary requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

Preference may be given to applicants possessing one or more of the following:

• Advanced Technician Firefighter

• Fire Apparatus Engineer/Operator training

• Incident Command System (ICS 100, 200, 700, 800)

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Successful candidates should demonstrate the ability to:

• Work effectively in high-stress emergency environments.

• Communicate professionally with patients, coworkers, allied agencies, and the public.

• Make sound decisions under pressure.

• Work independently and as part of a team.

• Operate fire suppression, rescue, and EMS equipment safely.

• Learn new skills and maintain required certifications.

• Use computers, electronic patient care reporting software, and records management systems.

• Follow written and verbal instructions while maintaining situational awareness.

Physical Requirements

The position requires the ability to:

• Lift, carry, drag, or move patients and equipment weighing over 100 pounds with assistance.

• Perform strenuous physical activity while wearing structural firefighting PPE and SCBA.

• Climb ladders, crawl, kneel, stoop, bend, reach, and work in confined spaces.

• Work in extreme temperatures, smoke, hazardous environments, and adverse weather conditions.

• Meet all applicable medical and physical fitness standards.

Work Environment

Employees may be exposed to:

• Fire, smoke, hazardous materials, bloodborne pathogens, infectious diseases, loud noises, and stressful emergency situations.

• Shift work including nights, weekends, holidays, mandatory callbacks, and extended incidents.

Employment Requirements

Final candidates must successfully complete:

• Background investigation

• Criminal history check

• Driving record review

• Drug screening

• Post-offer medical examination

• Physical ability assessment (if required)

• Verification of certifications and licensure

Benefits

The Northwest Fire Protection District offers a competitive compensation and benefits package that may include:

• Competitive hourly wage

• Uniforms and personal protective equipment

• Continuing education and department-paid training

• Promotional opportunities

Why Join Northwest Fire Protection District?

Northwest Fire Protection District serves a growing community with a strong commitment to professionalism, innovation, and customer service. We are dedicated to developing exceptional firefighters through quality training, modern equipment, collaborative leadership, and opportunities for career advancement.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Northwest Fire Protection District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.