Lateral Firefighter/EMT

Arlington County Government; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking experienced Lateral Firefighter/EMT candidates to join their dynamic team. This role offers a unique opportunity for career advancement in a fast-paced, diverse environment, responding to emergencies and engaging in special operations. With a competitive salary structure and generous hiring bonuses, this position is ideal for those looking to make a significant impact in their community. Enjoy a collaborative atmosphere, extensive training opportunities, and comprehensive benefits, including health coverage and retirement plans. If you are passionate about public service and ready for a rewarding career, this opportunity is for you.

Benefits

Hiring bonus up to $15,000

Full health, dental, and vision coverage

Paid training and lateral firefighter school

Retirement plan

Career growth opportunities

Qualifications

• Two years of post-probation experience as a full-time firefighter/EMT.
• Completion of required certifications including Firefighter I and II.

Responsibilities

• Responding to emergencies in an urban community.
• Participating in special operations such as Hazmat and Technical Rescue.

Skills

Fire suppression

Hazmat mitigation

Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

CPR

EVOC Courses I, II, III

ICS Courses 100, 200, 700, 800

Education

Completion of career recruit school

Job description

Join to apply for the Lateral Firefighter/EMT role at Arlington County Government

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Join to apply for the Lateral Firefighter/EMT role at Arlington County Government

Job Description

Arlington County requires all applicants to thoroughly complete each section of the application, including prior job responsibilities, duties, and supplemental questions. While you may attach a resume, it will not replace a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Important Notice

The salary range provided is effective as of July 1, 2025.

Hiring Bonus up to $15,000 for qualified applicants:

• $5,000 for previous employment with ACFD within 3 years and at least 12 months separation.
• $10,000 for certified Firefighter II and Emergency Medical Technician.
• $15,000 for certified Firefighter II and Advanced Life Support Technician.

Lateral Firefighter Hiring Salary/Competitive Step Placement: Arlington County offers a unique opportunity for experienced career firefighters to receive a higher starting salary based on prior service. For Fiscal Year 2026, lateral hires will receive step placement credit on a one-for-one basis for each year of qualifying service, up to a maximum of 10 years of credit, minus one year.

Why Join ACFD?

• Fast-paced, diverse environment responding to emergencies in an urban community.
• Opportunities in special operations like Hazmat, Technical Rescue, Swift Water Rescue, or Bomb Squad.
• Career growth in fire prevention, communications, training, and more.
• Collaborative work with regional partners.
• Competitive schedule and benefits, including paid training and paid lateral firefighter school.
• Progressive department with a rich history of innovation.
• Great location in Arlington, Virginia.

Invest in Your Future

• Enjoy a work schedule of approximately 8 or 9 days per month with competitive pay, benefits, and a retirement plan.
• Full health, dental, and vision coverage, plus a pension plan.
• Opportunity for professional advancement, including paid lateral firefighter school and ALS certification support.
• Join a department with a history of pioneering initiatives.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: Two years of post-probation experience as a full-time firefighter/EMT, including fire suppression, hazmat mitigation, and EMS, plus completion of a career recruit school with specified certifications.

• National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians – Basic (NREMT-Basic);
• CPR;
• Firefighter I and II;
• Hazmat Awareness/Operations;
• EVOC Courses I, II, III;
• ICS Courses 100, 200, 700, 800.

Certification Substitutions: Equivalent, accredited certifications will be accepted.

Breaks in Service: Applications from previously paid firefighters with breaks exceeding 90 days will undergo review.

Desirable Skills (Optional for Priority): Virginia EMT-I, EMT-P, or National Registry EMT-P certifications.

Additional Requirements: Complete interview, psych eval, polygraph, background check, and up to 4 weeks of lateral transfer academy. Provide active contact info in your application.

If you possess current Virginia EMT-Intermediate or Paramedic certification, you will be eligible for premium pay upon hire.

Bonus Payment Details

• Up to $15,000 for qualified applicants, paid in three portions: at hire, after academy, and after probation.
• Returning employees receive a lump sum at hire.

Additional Information

For more details, visit the Arlington Fire Department website: https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Departments/Fire

If you do not meet the qualifications for lateral transfer, apply for requisition 454 – Firefighter/EMT Recruit.