Summary: To protect lives and property through firefighting/EMS activities and perform hazardous tasks under emergency conditions.

Scope of Responsibility: Responds to all fires and or emergencies within a designated district and to perform all duties necessary to abate any threat posed to life or property.

Essential Functions: Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

·      Responds to fire alarms, other emergency calls and non-emergency public service calls.

·      Pulls correct hose, depending on type of fire and directs stream of water or chemicals onto fire.

·      Positions and climbs ladders to gain access to upper levels of buildings or to rescue individuals from burning structure.

·      Creates openings in buildings for ventilation or entrance, using power and hand tools.

·      Protects property from water and smoke by use of proper firefighting techniques.

·      Administers first aid and artificial respiration to persons overcome by fire and smoke, or for any other emergency situation.

·      Inspects building for preplanning operations.

·      Performs assigned duties in maintaining and repairing apparatus, quarters, buildings, equipment, grounds and hydrants.

·      Participates in drills, demonstrations and training in hydraulics, pump operations and maintenance and firefighting techniques.

·      Participates in public education functions.

·      Participates in multiple continuing education training regimens.

·      Drives fire and EMS apparatus as needed.

·      Performs EMS duties.

·      Performs other duties as assigned.

Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed; reasonable accommodations will be made as required. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer.

Additional duties for Certified Paramedics:

·      Participates in continuing education training in paramedic areas as required by the State of Texas.

·      Performs advanced life support activities.

·      Takes charge of the EMS scene and directs the activities of support personnel (EMTs and Firefighters) who might be present at the scene.

·      Evaluate and determine what action should be taken in medical emergencies.

·      Evaluate and determine the necessity of additional personnel and equipment at scenes of medical emergencies.

·      Properly administers medicine, drugs, and treatments warranted by their paramedic certification, the Director of EMS and the department's Standard Operating Procedures.

·      Prepares necessary reports that are pertinent to the position.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education, Training, and Experience Guidelines: High School Diploma or G.E.D. Certification; proof required.

License and certification requirements:

·       Possess a valid Texas "C" Driver License.

·       Successful Applicants with out-of-state licenses must have a Texas License at the time of employment.

·       Applicant must be a certified Firefighter with the Texas Commission on Fire Protection.

·       Applicant must be a certified Texas Department of State Health Services (TDSHS) Emergency Medical Technicialn (EMT).... OR...Paramedic at the time of employment.

·       If not a Texas DSHS-certified Paramedic when hired, the employee must enroll in the first available Paramedic class and/or prerequisite classes and make a continuous, uninterrupted effort to pass and become a Texas DSHS-certified Paramedic.

·       Employee must maintain at least Paramedic level certification during employment with the Odessa Fire Rescue.

"As authorized by Article 6243e, Texas Revised Civil Statutes, on October 30, 1941, after approval by the members of the fire department, the Odessa Firefighter's Relief and Retirement Fund was established. All persons employed as Firefighters with Odessa Fire Rescue must become members of the Odessa Firefighter's Relief and Retirement Fund. The maximum age for a new member is 35 years."

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

·      Knowledge of modern firefighting and rescue techniques, knowledge of fire laws, ordinances, rules and regulations,

·      Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of firefighting apparatus and equipment.

·      Ability to write, read, understand, and follow oral and written instructions and regulations.

·      Learn the principles and practices used in modern fire suppression and fire activities.

·      Ability to perform strenuous work under hazardous and adverse weather conditions.

·      Ability to work effectively with co-workers, supervisors, and the general public.

Skills Tests:

·       A Written Exam, Physical Agility Test, Background Investigation, Oral Interview, Medical Physical and Drug Screen. (Continued employment is contingent upon successfully completing one (1) year probation and continued satisfactory job performance).