Overview

Firefighter / EMT

City of Southport, North Carolina
Location: Southport, NC (On-site)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary Range: $50,810 – $78,247 annually
Department: Public Safety – Fire Division

Position Overview

The City of Southport Fire Department is seeking a dedicated Firefighter/EMT to provide emergency medical care, fire suppression, rescue operations, and fire prevention services while assigned to a rotating 24-hour shift. This position plays a critical role in protecting lives and property through rapid emergency response, teamwork, and professional public service.

Firefighter/EMTs function as part of a coordinated response crew and are responsible for emergency incident mitigation, patient care at the EMT level, and participation in daily station operations. The role involves operating emergency apparatus, maintaining equipment readiness, completing reports, and engaging in training and inspection activities. Work is performed in high-risk environments that require physical endurance, situational awareness, and sound judgment under pressure.

Key Responsibilities

  • Respond to emergency incidents including fires, medical calls, rescues, hazardous materials situations, and related emergencies

  • Deliver emergency medical care consistent with EMT certification, including CPR, airway management, bleeding control, immobilization, oxygen therapy, defibrillation, and basic life support procedures

  • Operate fire engines, EMS vehicles, pumps, hoses, and firefighting tools during emergency responses

  • Assist with fire suppression activities such as interior attack, ventilation, search and rescue, salvage, and overhaul

  • Drive and position emergency apparatus to establish water supply and support safe scene operations

  • Restore apparatus and equipment to service following incidents

  • Perform routine cleaning, inspection, and maintenance of apparatus, equipment, protective gear, and station facilities

  • Conduct inspections of hydrants, hoses, and pumping systems to ensure operational readiness

  • Participate in fire prevention efforts, public education programs, pre-incident planning, and fire inspections

  • Complete incident documentation and assist with reports and special projects as assigned

  • Attend scheduled training to maintain certifications and enhance operational proficiency

Working Conditions

This position involves exposure to physically demanding and hazardous conditions, including extreme temperatures, confined spaces, loud noise, smoke, chemicals, bloodborne pathogens, and the use of SCBA and respiratory protection. Duties may be performed indoors and outdoors, at heights, and in unpredictable emergency environments.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Strong understanding of modern firefighting techniques, safety practices, and emergency response procedures

  • Working knowledge of EMS protocols, fire apparatus operation, and rescue techniques

  • Ability to operate firefighting and medical equipment safely and effectively

  • Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions during high-stress emergencies

  • Strong interpersonal skills for effective teamwork and public interaction

  • Ability to accurately complete reports and maintain records

Minimum Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent

  • Firefighter certification preferred or ability to obtain within one year of hire

  • Valid North Carolina EMT certification through NCOEMS

  • Ability to meet physical and performance standards required for emergency response

Preferred Certifications (Within City-Defined Timeframe)

  • North Carolina Class B Driver’s License

  • Emergency Vehicle Driver (EVD)

  • Driver/Operator – Pumps

  • Technical Rescue certification

  • NIMS 100, 200, 700, and 800

Benefits

This full-time position includes eligibility for the City of Southport’s comprehensive benefits package. Details are available on the City’s official benefits webpage.