This position is in the D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department (DCFEMS). DCFEMS provides fire suppression, technical rescue, fire prevention, education, and pre-hospital care and transportation services to people within the District to protect life and property.  

DCFEMS firefighter paramedics can work in a fast-paced, high call volume jurisdiction with unique and high-profile special events related to its status as the Nation’s Capital. The Department’s diverse mission also gives firefighter paramedics the opportunity to apply for positions in all four of its disciplines throughout their careers. Firefighter/Paramedic is assigned to one of approximately thirty-three fire stations throughout the District of Columbia. The incumbent will primarily travel by Medic Unit and Fire Unit in a prompt and efficient manner in response to calls for emergency medical care of critically ill or injured patients.

Duties and Responsibilities

Incumbent performs an initial and detail/focus assessment, including current medical history and physical examination in accordance with medical protocols.  Stabilizes critically ill injured patients through the application of advanced life support techniques, such as intubation, peripheral intravenous insertion, defibrillation, and administration of pharmaceutical agents. Etc. Prepares and administers intramuscular, subcutaneous, and intravenous medications. Extricates injured and/or entrapped patients by safely employing prescribed techniques and appliances.  Manages emotionally disturbed, alcohol and drug intoxicated, and unruly patients.  Drives medic unit to a specific address or location of an emergency situation, choosing the most direct and expeditious route in a timely and safe manner, maintain life support care during transportation to the appropriate hospital emergency department. Reports, verbally and in writing, observations and emergency care given to the patient at the scene and in transit to the receiving facility for record keeping and diagnostic purpose.  Upon request, provides assistant to the receiving facility staff.  Incumbent performs as a firefighter responding to known and unknown emergency calls at minimal response time.  Upon arrival at emergency location, relays conditions, life hazards and exposure to commanding officer.  Examines structure for any signs of fire extension or other dangers and determines the safest evacuation route for occupant. Incumbent makes forcible entries, makes openings for ventilation and performs overhaul operations, operates hose lines and hydrant systems, drives and operates firefighting apparatus of significant complexity, including pumps, aerial ladder trucks, and rescue trucks.  Operates and maintains various power tools such as saws, ventilation fans, extrication devices and others.