Firefighter/Paramedic – Part-time Sebring, Florida

Overview

We are seeking a dedicated Firefighter/Paramedic to join our Public Safety team. This professional role requires mastery of firefighting, emergency medical services (EMS), and rescue operations to protect life, property, and the community. The ideal candidate will maintain required state licensure, possess advanced life support (ALS) and paramedic skills, and perform pre-hospital and inter-facility care as needed. This position also involves operating fire and EMS apparatus, enforcing fire prevention codes, and participating in public safety education.

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Key Responsibilities

• Respond to fires, EMS calls, and rescue operations as assigned.

• Safely rescue and transport individuals from hazardous situations.

• Operate firefighting and emergency medical equipment, including ambulances and fire apparatus.

• Perform building ventilation, salvage, and overhaul operations at fire scenes.

• Maintain and clean department equipment, vehicles, and facilities.

• Conduct fire prevention inspections, hydrant maintenance, and pre-fire planning.

• Administer basic and advanced life support according to county EMS protocols and state regulations.

• Assist with patient transfers, including both emergency and non-emergency situations within and outside the county.

• Complete accurate and timely reports for fires, patients, and daily operations.

• Participate in ongoing training for firefighting, EMS, equipment operation, and emergency medical care.

• Promote public education programs related to fire safety and prevention.

• Maintain a professional work environment adhering to all safety policies and organizational standards.

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Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of firefighting techniques, policies, and procedures.

• Proficiency in basic and advanced life support and paramedic practices.

• Knowledge of patient care, safety, and comfort measures.

• Defensive driving skills and knowledge of local roadways.

• Familiarity with Florida fire codes, traffic laws, and EMS regulations.

• Ability to communicate effectively, make sound decisions, and work as part of a team.

• Physical capability to perform strenuous tasks, including lifting, climbing, and operating heavy equipment.

• Attention to detail for maintaining equipment, facilities, and written reports.

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Physical Requirements

This position requires significant physical effort, including:

• Frequent lifting of over 100 pounds (up to 125 pounds independently or 250 pounds combined).

• Standing, walking, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, pushing, pulling, and repetitive motions.

• Visual acuity for near and far distances, depth perception, color vision, night vision, and peripheral awareness.

• Effective verbal and auditory communication for instructions and emergency response.

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Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• Current Florida Paramedic Certification.

• Florida Firefighter II Certification (within one year).

• ACLS and BLS/CPR certifications.

• Completion of a Florida-approved 16-hour EVOC Defensive Driving Course.

• Approval from the EMS Medical Director to practice as a Paramedic.

• Valid Florida Driver License.

No substitute training or experience will be accepted for these minimum qualifications.

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Additional Requirements

• Disaster-essential personnel.

• Must comply with all workplace drug-free policies and may be subject to drug testing.

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Equal Opportunity Statement

The Highlands County Board of County Commissioners is committed to equal employment opportunities. We do not discriminate based on age, race, sex, religion, color, national origin, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetics, or any other legally protected status.