Firefighter/EMT or Firefighter/Paramedic

Amherst County Fire & EMS
Amherst, Virginia

Amherst County Fire & EMS is seeking motivated, professional, and service-oriented individuals to join our organization as a Firefighter/EMT or Firefighter/Paramedic. This position provides emergency medical services, fire suppression, rescue operations, public assistance, fire prevention activities, and related emergency services throughout Amherst County.

Successful candidates will become part of a progressive department committed to protecting life and property through exceptional emergency response, community engagement, and professional development.

Firefighters assigned to this position work an 8- to 10.5-hour shift schedule Monday through Friday and are responsible for responding to emergency incidents, maintaining operational readiness, participating in training, and supporting community risk reduction efforts.

Under the supervision of the Shift Lieutenant, Shift Captain, Operations Division Chief, respective Volunteer Fire Chief, Deputy Chief, or Chief of Fire & EMS, employees perform a wide variety of emergency and non-emergency duties in support of department operations.

• Respond to emergency medical calls, fires, rescue incidents, hazardous materials events, public service requests, and other emergencies.
• Provide emergency medical care consistent with certification level and applicable protocols.
• Participate in fire suppression activities including hose deployment, search and rescue, ventilation, forcible entry, salvage, and overhaul operations.
• Complete patient care reports, incident reports, and other required documentation accurately and promptly.
• Conduct daily inspections of apparatus, equipment, and stations to ensure operational readiness.
• Perform routine maintenance, testing, cleaning, and inventory of equipment and supplies.
• Participate in department training, drills, continuing education, and professional development programs.
• Assist with fire prevention, public education, community outreach, and special events.
• Maintain compliance with department policies, procedures, and safety standards.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Applicants must possess:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Current Virginia EMT certification or National Registry EMT certification eligible for Virginia reciprocity.
• Virginia Firefighter I certification.
• EVOC Class 3 certification.
• Valid Virginia driver's license or ability to obtain one upon employment.

Applicants must obtain:

• Virginia Firefighter II certification within 18 months of employment.
• Basic Pump Operator certification or Driver Pump Operator certification within 12 months of employment.

Applicants must possess:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Current Virginia Paramedic certification or National Registry Paramedic certification eligible for Virginia reciprocity.
• Valid Virginia driver's license or ability to obtain one upon employment.

Applicants must obtain:

• Virginia Firefighter II certification within 18 months of employment.
• Basic Pump Operator certification or Driver Pump Operator certification within 12 months of employment.

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

• Knowledge of fire suppression, emergency medical services, rescue operations, and public safety practices.
• Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions during emergency situations.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, partner agencies, and the public.
• Commitment to teamwork, professionalism, and customer service.
• Physical fitness and endurance necessary to perform firefighting and emergency medical duties.
• Willingness to learn, train, and continually develop professionally.

This position requires the ability to perform strenuous physical activities associated with firefighting, rescue, and emergency medical services. Duties may include:

• Lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, and moving patients and equipment weighing over 100 pounds with assistance.
• Climbing ladders and stairs.
• Working in confined spaces, elevated locations, and adverse weather conditions.
• Wearing personal protective equipment, including self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), for extended periods.
• Exposure to smoke, hazardous materials, infectious diseases, bloodborne pathogens, and other emergency scene hazards.

Employees must maintain:

• Virginia EMT certification.
• Current CPR certification.
• All certifications required by Amherst County Fire & EMS and the Virginia Department of Fire Programs.
• Annual training, competency evaluations, and departmental physical requirements.

Employees must maintain:

• Virginia Paramedic certification.
• Current CPR, ACLS, and PALS certifications.
• All certifications required by Amherst County Fire & EMS and the Virginia Department of Fire Programs.
• Annual training, competency evaluations, and departmental physical requirements.

Amherst County Fire & EMS is committed to providing high-quality emergency services while fostering a culture of professionalism, teamwork, safety, and continuous improvement. We offer opportunities for training, career development, and meaningful service to the community.

• Pay starting at $51,000 annually depending on qualifications
• Full county benefits
• VRS participation AND 457(b) option with cash match

Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit an application and supporting documentation demonstrating their certifications, qualifications, and experience.

Amherst County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.