What are the responsibilities and job description for the Community Paramedic I position at Chatham County Government?
Respond with Care. Connect Communities. Deliver Lasting Impact.
The Chatham County Fire Department (CCFD) is seeking dedicated, service-minded professionals for the position of Community Paramedic I. CCFD provides emergency medical services, behavioral health crisis intervention, and proactive wellness outreach across Chatham County. As part of a team that supports innovative public health strategies and mobile integrated healthcare, this position offers a meaningful opportunity to serve residents beyond the traditional 911 model.
This position supports the Behavioral Health Unit (BHU) and other Community Paramedicine Program initiatives to provide timely, patient-centered care while reducing emergency room visits and system overutilization.
Reporting to the Deputy Chief of Medical Services, the Community Paramedic I delivers essential healthcare services in the field, focusing on prevention, follow-up, and intervention. This position collaborates with behavioral health clinicians, hospitals, law enforcement, and social service agencies to support individuals in behavioral, substance use, or social crises.
The Community Paramedic I will assist in mobile outreach efforts, in-home evaluations, and coordination of care services. The role requires empathy, professionalism, adaptability, and a commitment to improving health outcomes through trusted community relationships.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide prehospital emergency and non-emergency care in homes and non-traditional settings
- Conduct health assessments, crisis stabilization, and follow-up wellness checks
- Assist individuals with navigating long-term medical, behavioral health, and social services
- Participate in patient care coordination with internal and external providers
- Support BHU operations by delivering medical assistance during mental health or substance use incidents
- Reduce 911 dependency through early intervention, prevention, and community outreach
- Accurately document patient encounters and treatment plans in electronic systems
- Maintain equipment readiness and ensure compliance with department protocols
- Participate in public education and community risk reduction activities
- Perform other duties as assigned in alignment with CCFD’s mission and goals
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge of emergency medical care, community health, and crisis response
- Familiarity with behavioral health and addiction issues
- Ability to communicate clearly and compassionately with vulnerable populations
- Skilled in-patient documentation, care coordination, and the use of EMS reporting systems
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
- Commitment to professionalism, cultural competence, and continuous improvement
- Minimum of three (3) years of continuous and current full-time (paid) experience in a career EMS or fire-based EMS agency
- Georgia or National Registry EMT-Paramedic (must obtain Georgia licensure reciprocity within 30 days)
- Valid Class C (GA) driver’s license or equivalent
- Certification in Crisis Intervention (or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire)
- Completion of a recognized Community Paramedicine training program or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
- Demonstrated history of increasing responsibility, personal development, and service to the community
Preferred Qualifications
- National Registry Paramedic certification
- Prior experience with tactical EMS or law enforcement medical operations
- Completion of the SOARescue Tactical Medical Practitioner Program
- Certification in advanced trauma care or tactical paramedic specialty
- Experience working in behavioral health, substance use, or community outreach settings
- Strong interpersonal communication and patient education skills
- Familiarity with HIPAA, EMS protocols, and public safety operations
- Completion of motivational interviewing, de-escalation, or social services training
- Bachelor’s degree in EMS, Public Health, or a related field
Lateral Hire Requirements
- Successful completion of the CCFD Paramedic clearance taskbook
- One-year probationary period beginning on hire date
Eligibility and Pre-employment Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old
- U.S. Citizen
- High school diploma or GED
- Must meet all licensing and certification requirements at time of hire
- Must successfully complete the following:
- Written examination
- Candidate physical agility test
- EMS Medical evaluation and fitness assessment
- Drug screening
- Background, criminal, and driving history review
- Interview and any other pre-employment evaluations
Why Join Chatham County Fire Department?
- Serve a forward-thinking, community-centered EMS agency
- Help lead proactive wellness and mental health response efforts
- Collaborate with a compassionate, multi-disciplinary team
- Receive ongoing training and career development support
- Competitive salary, benefits, and opportunity for advancement
Apply Today
Step beyond the ambulance. Bring care to the community. Make a lasting impact as a Community Paramedic I with Chatham County Fire Department.
To Apply: https://jobs.chathamcounty.org
For questions or more information, please contact Chatham County Fire Department administrative office at (912) 219-0420.