Overview
Orange County Fire Rescue Department (OCFRD) is hiring State of Florida certified civilian paramedics. Candidates currently enrolled in paramedic school, with a projected graduation date, are also encouraged to apply. OCFRD is one of the fastest growing fire rescue organizations, delivering life-saving services across Central Florida.
Civilian paramedics provide Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) during emergencies, work under the supervision of a lieutenant, and collaborate with teams to deliver high-quality patient care.
Paramedics who wish to become certified Firefighter Paramedics will be sponsored to attend Firefighter minimum standards.
Job Description
General Functions: Protect and preserve life by responding to emergencies in Orange County.
Representative Duties / Assignments
- Respond to emergencies and provide BLS/ALS care.
- Perform emergency medical services on persons injured or ill according to National, State, and Departmental guidelines.
- Document patient care according to specific policies and ensure compliance with legal, patient rights, and regulatory standards.
- Transport patients to emergency medical facilities and report observations to emergency medical staff; may provide additional emergency treatment.
- Replace used supplies, inspect equipment, decontaminate the vehicle if needed, and report incidents to authorities.
- Provide pre-hospital care, administer drugs orally and intravenously, interpret EKGs, perform intubation, and use complex equipment and monitors.
- Give patient care at the scene and during transport, assess conditions, and manage respiratory, cardiac, and trauma emergencies.
- Inspect safety equipment to ensure it is in optimum condition and notify superiors of deficiencies.
- Attend classroom and drill ground training sessions to continuously update knowledge and skills.
- Communicate with co-workers and the public to receive or relay emergency information.
- Participate in public-relations activities such as school and safety demonstrations to promote the department’s image.
- Perform cleanup and janitorial duties in stations to maintain a clean environment.
- Operate emergency vehicles as required.
- Perform other duties as assigned or as may be necessary.
Minimum Qualifications
- High school graduation or equivalent, and minimum age of 18.
- Non-user of tobacco or tobacco products for at least one year immediately preceding application, continuing as a requirement of employment.
- State of Florida Class E driver’s license upon application and continuing throughout employment.
- Current State of Florida paramedic certification.
- Selected candidates will enroll in OCFRD Firefighter Minimum Standard School and must complete and maintain Firefighter Certification within three (3) years of hire.
- Failure to maintain paramedic certification will lead to termination.
- Participation in written test, physical abilities test, interpersonal skills assessment, polygraph, criminal background investigation, and physical assessment.
- Maintain physical fitness consistent with the job assignment.
- Students currently enrolled in paramedic school may apply; must indicate status and expected graduation date.
Preferences
- Associate’s degree in Emergency Medical Services, Fire Science, Business Administration, or a closely related field from an accredited institution.
- Excellent written and communication skills.
Benefits
- 10 paid holidays and up to 2 floating holidays annually.
- 18 days paid time off per year.
- Longevity bonus based on years of service.
- 6 days of paid sick time annually.
- Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and additional life insurance.
- Free basic life, long-term disability, and employee assistance for all family members effective on day one.
- Participation in the Florida Retirement System.
- Employee assistance program with free counseling and online tools.
- Free access to Wellworks gyms and county recreation centers.
- Free onsite wellness coaching (dietician and nurse).
- Tuition reimbursement program.
- Earn service time to forgive student loans.
Disclaimer: Benefits may vary for employees under collective bargaining agreements.
Veterans Preference
- Applicants who claim veterans preference are encouraged to apply.
Entry‑Level Testing
- All candidates must pass the Ergometrics Fire Team Video Test; valid scores are valid for 2 years. Accepted scores from the National Testing Network (NTN) also count.