Firefighter (EMT and/or Paramedic)-Sarasota County Fire Department

Sarasota County Fire Department
1660 Ringling Blvd
Sarasota, Florida 34236
Phone: (941) 861-5000

Updated: August 21, 2024

Position Title: Firefighter/EMT or Firefighter/Paramedic
The Sarasota County Fire Department (SCFD) is looking for highly motivated individuals to join their team as Firefighter/EMTs or Firefighter/Paramedics. SCFD offers various opportunities, including marine operations, ladder operations, special operations, EMS bike team membership, honor guard membership, public education, special events, fire and EMS training, and leadership opportunities.

SCFD responds to nearly 70,000 calls for service annually, serving a population of 335,539 residents, with a significant increase during the tourist season. The department covers both urban and rural areas across 472 square miles and operates out of 25 fire stations. SCFD is an all-hazards, ALS transport agency providing advanced patient care and transport to 10 resource hospitals, including a level II trauma center.

Essential Job Duties:
Respond to medical and trauma emergencies using Basic and Advanced Life Support techniques.
Engage in fire suppression, hazardous materials response, rescue, and extrication operations.
Serve as essential personnel during county-declared emergencies.
Inspect fire and rescue apparatus to ensure readiness and report any maintenance needs.
Maintain professional demeanor, physical fitness, and mental well-being.
Participate in and successfully complete all required drills, EMS modules, firefighter modules, and continuing education programs.
Minimum Qualifications:
Must be at least 18 years of age.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Must meet eligibility requirements for the Firefighter/EMS Apprenticeship programs as recognized by the State of Florida's Department of Labor.
Current and valid Minimum Standards Certification issued by the Bureau of Fire Standards.
Current and valid State of Florida Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Paramedic License.
Valid State of Florida driver's license.
Ability to pass a pre-employment and annual NFPA 1582 comprehensive physical examination.
Must meet all requirements of Chapter 633.412 F.S.
Note: Firefighters must become dual certified as a Firefighter/Paramedic within three years of hire. The State of Florida paramedic license must be obtained during off-duty hours, but education expenses may be eligible for payment per the collective bargaining agreement.

Application Process:
To be considered for employment with the Sarasota County Fire Department, applicants must:

Complete an application with the National Testing Network (NTN).
Share current passing FireTEAM and CPAT test results with the Sarasota County Fire Department via the NTN website.
Complete a Sarasota County application for employment.
Submit copies of the following required documents:
State of Florida Firefighter Compliance certification
State of Florida EMT and/or Paramedic license
Failure to complete any of these steps may result in disqualification from the hiring process.

Important Dates:

Panel Interviews: October 1-3, 2024
Job Offer & Uniform Sizing: TBD
Start Date: December 16, 2024
Work Schedule:
Training Schedule: 40 hours per week for the first 10 weeks of employment.
Shift Schedule: 24-hour shifts with 48 hours off between each shift, including holidays and weekends.
Compensation:
Training Pay:

$25.48 per hour for the first 10 weeks (40 hours per week). This includes a $1.89 per hour County-paid Insurance Trust Fund contribution.
Shift Pay:

Annual salary: $53,788.80 - $58,306 based on experience, including the annual County-paid Insurance Trust Fund contribution.
Hourly pay: $21.55 - $23.36 based on experience (including $1.89 per hour County-paid Insurance Trust Fund contribution).
Pay Additives:

Paramedic In Charge (PIC) pay: $13,250
PIC Field Training Certification pay: $14,750
Lead PIC on ALS Transport Unit: $1.75 per hour
Lead PIC on ALS Non-Transport Unit: $1.00 per hour
Hydraulic Maintenance Technician (HMT): $1,922 annually
Special Operations: $2,221 - $4,742 annually
Benefits:
21-day work cycle with a Kelly Day off every 7th shift.
96 hours of Vacation Leave per year, increasing with longevity.
120 hours of Holiday Leave per year.
120 hours of Paid Sick Leave per year.
Longevity Pay based on 10, 15, and 20 years of service.
Up to 100% College Tuition Reimbursement Program.
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
County-paid Annual NFPA 1582 Comprehensive Physical.
Health and Wellness Programs.
Employee Assistance Program.
Uniform Maintenance and Shoe Purchase Allowance.
Florida Retirement System (FRS) "Special Risk" Pension Plan.
Sarasota Firefighters' Insurance Trust Fund (equivalent to 6% of the top step Firemedic base annual salary).
Deferred Compensation Program.
County Paid Paramedic School.
Special Note: This position requires a pre-employment drug screen as part of the selection process. External applicants who fail will be disqualified from employment with the County for five years.

Join the Sarasota County Fire Department and serve the community with pride!
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary: $ 49,071.00 73,503.00 Per Hour