Firefighter/Paramedic-SOUTH WALTON FIRE DISTRICT

South Walton Fire District
911 County Hwy 393
South Walton, Florida 32459
(850) 267-1298

Updated: August 07, 2024

Job Classification: Firefighter/Paramedic

The South Walton Fire District (SWFD) is currently recruiting Firefighters/Emergency Medical Technicians/Paramedics for the 2024 testing period.

Application Process:

Complete the employment application. Be sure to fill out all sections thoroughly.
Upload all required supporting documents. Legible copies must be submitted with the application, and applications will not be processed until all required documents are received.

Application Phases:

Phase I: Obtain a passing score on the FireTEAM exam and complete the Public Safety Self-Assessment (PSSA) Part I & Part II. Applicants must send their scores to the South Walton Fire District before taking the exams. There is a fee for the exam, and it is important to schedule early as deadlines will not be extended.
Phase II: Complete the physical abilities test administered by the South Walton Fire District. Candidates must pass this phase to advance.
Phase III: Participate in an interview.
Deadline: Phase I and the application process must be completed by October 4, 2024.

Compensation and Benefits:

Firefighter/EMT Starting Pay: $20.23/hr
Firefighter/Paramedic Pay: $23.26/hr after obtaining agency paramedic credentialing
Schedule: 48/96 rotation
Additional benefits include medical, dental, vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with a 6% match, paid time off, and more.

District Overview:

The South Walton Fire District is a professional fire/rescue agency serving a premier beach community in the Florida panhandle. Located in the southern part of Walton County, the district oversees 26 miles of beaches along the Gulf of Mexico, providing fire protection, emergency medical services, beach lifeguards, hazardous mitigation, technical rescue, and public education services for an area spanning 84 square miles. The population served varies from approximately 40,000 residents to over 150,000 during the tourist season.

Position Summary:

This specialized role involves protecting life and property through emergency and non-emergency services to the citizens of South Walton. The Firefighter/Paramedic works under the supervision of a Lieutenant, exercising discretion, sound judgment, and initiative while upholding organizational values and providing excellent customer service.

Key Duties:

Perform fire suppression and emergency medical services based on certification level.
Conduct rescue operations, including victim extrication from hazardous situations.
Perform clean-up and salvage operations at fire scenes.
Maintain physical conditioning for firefighting duties.
Conduct routine inspections of safety equipment.
Participate in training and public relations activities.
Operate District emergency vehicles when required.

Knowledge and Skills Required:

Knowledge of District policies, firefighting principles, and emergency medical care techniques.
Ability to operate emergency equipment and communicate effectively.
Physical fitness to handle strenuous tasks, including lifting heavy objects and working in hazardous conditions.

Minimum Qualifications:

Must be at least 18 years old.
High school diploma or equivalent.
State of Florida Certificate of Compliance as a Firefighter II.
Current Florida EMT or Paramedic license.
Valid American Heart Association BLS Health Care Provider certification.
Valid Florida Driver’s License with an acceptable driving record.
Florida-approved 16-hour Emergency Vehicle Operations Certificate (EVOC).
Certification in National Incident Management System (NIMS) IS-100, IS-200, IS-700, and IS-800.
Florida Forestry certification in S130, S190 (Wildland Firefighter).
Pass Fire Service testing through the National Testing Network.
Pass the District’s physical ability test and interview process.
Must be a non-smoker/tobacco user at the time of employment and maintain this status throughout employment.

Physical Demands:

The role involves physically demanding tasks such as reaching, bending, kneeling, running, climbing, and lifting heavy objects (over 150 pounds) during rescue operations. Exposure to hazardous conditions, extreme temperatures, and inclement weather is common. Personal protective equipment and safety gear are required to preserve life and property.

Work Environment:

Work is typically performed at the fire station or emergency scenes. Outside work may involve extreme danger and exertion under stressful conditions, such as fire, hazardous materials, and cramped environments.

Additional Information:

During local emergencies, this position may require extended work hours and time away from family members.
Testing candidates are notified that the SWFD may change employment requirements in the future. If implemented, new hires must obtain Paramedic certification within three years of employment, with SWFD covering the cost for successful certification.