What are the responsibilities and job description for the Emergency Medical Technician (Non-Safety) position at City of Chula Vista?
Description And Essential Functions
Annual Salary: $40,520 – $71,621*
All EMT positions are on a regular 24-Hour or 13.5-Hour shift schedule.
Join our team and have an opportunity to serve your community through the Fire Department's Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Division, providing Advanced Life Support (ALS) and Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulance transport services on all calls for service for the cities of Chula Vista, Imperial Beach, and the Bonita Sunnyside Fire Protection District.
Candidates who successfully complete all portions of the selection process will be placed on an Eligibility List for a period of six (6) months unless otherwise extended.
About The Chula Vista Fire Department
"Service and protection, with pride, respect, teamwork, and safety." -Value Statement
The Chula Vista Fire Department holds a rich tradition of service since its establishment on May 2, 1921. The Department and the City continue to grow and expand, offering exciting career opportunities in a dynamic and positive environment.
The Chula Vista Fire Department is comprised of 233 highly trained, professional men and women. Currently, the City's ten fire station network responds to nearly 31,000 calls for service annually, while serving a population over 274,000, covering an area of over 52 square miles. Beginning April 2021, the Fire Department took over emergency ambulance transport services for all of Chula Vista, Bonita, and Imperial Beach.
In addition to providing emergency medical response and firefighting services to citizens, the Fire Department also provides technical rescue training to first responders across the country, comprehensive fire safety engineering plan review and inspection services to Chula Vista's business community, and provides fire and life safety education and outreach to City residents.
About The Position
Under supervision, responds to fire alarms, emergency medical calls, and other emergency calls to protect life and property; participates in training, public education, and station and equipment maintenance activities; operates an ambulance in response to medical emergencies and provides definitive medical care; and performs related duties as required.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
Receives supervision from an assigned Fire Captain. Receives direction through San Diego County EMS protocols and from the EMS Battalion Chief and Medical Director.
Essential Functions
Functions may include, but are not limited to, the following: respond to alarms involving fire, all types of accidents, gas leaks, flooded structures, hazardous substances, and lifesaving and rescue work to provide emergency medical services; perform first aid and lifesaving duties; render basic emergency medical aid examining and assessing victims, communicating vital medical data to medical and/or fire personnel and administering medical treatment in accordance within established guidelines and/or at the specific instruction of base hospital medical personnel; support and assist other fire and medical personnel as directed on medical calls; operate an ambulance safely; treat and transport patients in accordance with San Diego County Emergency Medical Services protocol and department policy; perform primary and secondary medical physical assessments of patients; perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation; maintain an effective airway for patients with compromised breathing; administer basic life support within established guidelines and/or at the specific instruction of base hospital medical personnel; operate heart monitoring and defibrillation equipment; operate radios, telephones and other communications equipment in order communicate medical information to base hospital medical personnel or other fire personnel; prepare and maintain a variety of records and reports such as controlled drug inventory, equipment and station logs, and EMS reports; perform building and grounds maintenance; clean, service, inspect and test motor driven equipment including ambulances; study fire department rules, regulations and procedures; operate computer related equipment and software applications related to assignment; may operate an ambulance; may assist in conducting hydrant maintenance or routine inspections; may participate in physical fitness program; build and maintain positive, collaborative working relationships with co-workers, other City employees, personnel from a wide range of outside agencies, other colleagues in the field, and the public; perform related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Any combination of education and/or experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
Training
Equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade. An Associate’s degree in Fire Science is highly desirable.
Special Requirements
Must be at least 18 years of age at time of application.
License or Certificate
Knowledge, Skills And Abilities
Knowledge of: emergency medical basic life support principles and procedures; general principles and practices of emergency medical response; San Diego County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) regulations, protocols and procedures; Federal, State and local laws, regulations and standards related to firefighting and para-medicine; maintenance and repair of vehicles, apparatus and equipment; local geographical response factors; English usage, spelling, grammar and punctuation; safety practices and procedures; computer related equipment and software applications related to assignment. Ability to: perform competently under extreme pressure and in stressful situations; make accurate observations and rapid judgments; learn new skills and methods quickly and accurately; work in a variety of weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, wind, dust, etc.) and in extremely hazardous situations; work 24-hour shifts, weekends and holidays; work variable shifts and overtime, as required; perform life saving techniques to victims; maintain and participate in continuing education (CE) requirements associated with an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) accreditation with the State of California and County of San Diego; learn and follow City policies and procedures; learn and follow Fire Department rules and regulations; read and understand printed information during emergency calls; follow written and verbal orders from supervisors; work effectively as a team member of a company, battalion, department, and/or special project groups by following orders, consistently following through with duties/assignments and living harmoniously with co-workers; attend meetings and training activities; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; operate, maintain, inspect and repair vehicles, apparatus and equipment; clean and maintain fire station and grounds; teach classes and participate in public education demonstrations and activities; operate computer related equipment and software applications related to assignment; write comprehensive reports and maintain accurate records; wear approved uniform; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; work with various cultural and ethnic groups in a tactful and effective manner.
Physical Demands and Working Conditions
Must be able to perform a wide range of physical duties to include: constant upward and downward flexion of neck, side-to-side turning of neck; simple grasping and repetitive use of hands to hold radios, equipment and property; fine finger dexterity to manipulate apparatus controls, computer keyboard and writing utensils; lifting and carrying of objects weighing up to 10 lbs. Frequent walking, standing, sitting, kneeling, climbing, balancing and squatting; bending and twisting at the waist; pushing, pulling and reaching above and below shoulder level; power grasping; walking on uneven ground; driving; lifting and carrying of objects weighing up to 25 pounds from below waist to above shoulder level; lifting and carrying objects weighing up to 100 lbs. with or without assistance. Occasional running, crawling; lifting and carrying objects and persons weighing more than 100 lbs. with or without assistance. Work is performed in a variety of weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, wind, dust, etc.) and in extremely hazardous situations such as, at heights, in confined spaces, at temperature extremes, around crowds, with loud noises, with limited visibility, in the presence of hazardous materials, in the presence of victims of death and/or dismemberment.
Additional Information
Examination & Selection Information
Employees in the Emergency Medical Technician (Non-Safety) position are represented by the Non-Safety International Association of Fire Fighters, Local 2180 (Non-Safety IAFF). Click HERE to view the 2025 Non-Safety IAFF Benefits Summary.
To be considered, applicants must submit an online City Application with Supplemental Questionnaire and proof of required certifications. Candidates whose applications indicate education and experience most directly related to the position will be invited to participate in the selection process as described below. All notices regarding this recruitment will be sent electronically to the email associated with your application.
Unless otherwise noted, a passing score must be achieved at each phase of the selection process in order to continue and have your name placed on the City of Chula Vista's eligibility list for hiring consideration. The examination materials for this recruitment are validated, copyrighted, and/or inappropriate for review.
Step 1. Application Review: Applications will be screened on the basis of relevant education, training, and experience to ensure minimum qualifications are met.
At time of application, you must meet the following minimum qualifications:
You must be at least 18 years of age;
You must have completed the equivalent of the twelfth grade; and
You must hold a valid Emergency Medical Technician Certification with the State of California.
(Must be attached to application. Applications without attached documentation will be disqualified, regardless of reason)
Please do not submit any other certifications, licenses, resumes, letters of reference, etc. as they will NOT be considered at this time.
At time of appointment, you must meet the following additional minimum qualifications:
You must hold a valid EMT accreditation with the County of San Diego EMS Office; and
You must have a valid California Class C Driver's License.
Highly Desired Qualification
Associate degree in Fire Science or related field.
Step 2. Supplemental Questionnaire: The supplemental questionnaire is designed to evaluate how your education and experience will relate to this position. Your answers will be evaluated and may be used to determine the most highly qualified candidates.
Step 3. Written Exam: Tentatively scheduled for December 15 and 17, 2025. The written exam will evaluate the candidates' written communication skills, reading comprehension, customer service skills, and EMS job-related knowledge. All EMS-based questions will be based off the reference material included below.
Step 5. Fire Chief's Interview
Step 6. Post Offer, Pre-Employment Process: Final candidates will be issued a conditional offer, subject to the successful completion of a pre-employment medical examination and background check consisting of a Live Scan through the California Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Step 7. Orientation Academy: New employees hired in the EMT classification will participate in an EMS Academy.
ALL DATES INDICATED ABOVE ARE TENTATIVE AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE.
Non-Safety IAFF Benefits Summary: Click here.
01
The supplemental questionnaire is used to further evaluate your experience and education to determine your eligibility for this position. Please answer each question accurately and thoroughly. To be considered for this position, the experience you indicate in your responses to the supplemental questions must also be described, in detail, on the Work History/Experience section of your Employment Application. Failure to complete the "Work History/Experience" section of the employment application will result in your application not being considered. Please do not refer your response to your resume. A resume will not be considered in determining your qualifications.
Are you at least 18 years of age?
Which of the following best describes your highest level of education?
Do you possess a valid EMT Certification in the State of California? (If you answered yes, proof of certification must be attached to your application)
Do you possess a valid EMT accreditation with the County of San Diego EMS Office? (If you answered yes, proof of certification must be attached to your application)
Which of the following best describes your years of experience as an Emergency Medical Technician?
Do you possess a valid California Class C Driver's License?
APPLICANT'S ACKNOWLEDGMENT - NOTIFICATION VIA ELECTRONIC MAIL (E-MAIL)
The City Of Chula Vista's Human Resources Department Uses Electronic Mail (e-mail) To Notify Applicants Of Important Information Relating To The Status And Processing Of Your Application. We Do So As Part Of Our Ongoing Efforts To Increase Operational Efficiency, Promote The Conservation Of Green Resources, And Minimize Delays And Costs. Therefore, As An Applicant, You Are Hereby Advised Of The Following
Annual Salary: $40,520 – $71,621*
All EMT positions are on a regular 24-Hour or 13.5-Hour shift schedule.
- Salary range reflects 40 regular hours plus additional overtime hours worked on either a 13.5-Hour or 24-Hour Schedule.
Join our team and have an opportunity to serve your community through the Fire Department's Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Division, providing Advanced Life Support (ALS) and Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulance transport services on all calls for service for the cities of Chula Vista, Imperial Beach, and the Bonita Sunnyside Fire Protection District.
Candidates who successfully complete all portions of the selection process will be placed on an Eligibility List for a period of six (6) months unless otherwise extended.
About The Chula Vista Fire Department
"Service and protection, with pride, respect, teamwork, and safety." -Value Statement
The Chula Vista Fire Department holds a rich tradition of service since its establishment on May 2, 1921. The Department and the City continue to grow and expand, offering exciting career opportunities in a dynamic and positive environment.
The Chula Vista Fire Department is comprised of 233 highly trained, professional men and women. Currently, the City's ten fire station network responds to nearly 31,000 calls for service annually, while serving a population over 274,000, covering an area of over 52 square miles. Beginning April 2021, the Fire Department took over emergency ambulance transport services for all of Chula Vista, Bonita, and Imperial Beach.
In addition to providing emergency medical response and firefighting services to citizens, the Fire Department also provides technical rescue training to first responders across the country, comprehensive fire safety engineering plan review and inspection services to Chula Vista's business community, and provides fire and life safety education and outreach to City residents.
About The Position
Under supervision, responds to fire alarms, emergency medical calls, and other emergency calls to protect life and property; participates in training, public education, and station and equipment maintenance activities; operates an ambulance in response to medical emergencies and provides definitive medical care; and performs related duties as required.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
Receives supervision from an assigned Fire Captain. Receives direction through San Diego County EMS protocols and from the EMS Battalion Chief and Medical Director.
Essential Functions
Functions may include, but are not limited to, the following: respond to alarms involving fire, all types of accidents, gas leaks, flooded structures, hazardous substances, and lifesaving and rescue work to provide emergency medical services; perform first aid and lifesaving duties; render basic emergency medical aid examining and assessing victims, communicating vital medical data to medical and/or fire personnel and administering medical treatment in accordance within established guidelines and/or at the specific instruction of base hospital medical personnel; support and assist other fire and medical personnel as directed on medical calls; operate an ambulance safely; treat and transport patients in accordance with San Diego County Emergency Medical Services protocol and department policy; perform primary and secondary medical physical assessments of patients; perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation; maintain an effective airway for patients with compromised breathing; administer basic life support within established guidelines and/or at the specific instruction of base hospital medical personnel; operate heart monitoring and defibrillation equipment; operate radios, telephones and other communications equipment in order communicate medical information to base hospital medical personnel or other fire personnel; prepare and maintain a variety of records and reports such as controlled drug inventory, equipment and station logs, and EMS reports; perform building and grounds maintenance; clean, service, inspect and test motor driven equipment including ambulances; study fire department rules, regulations and procedures; operate computer related equipment and software applications related to assignment; may operate an ambulance; may assist in conducting hydrant maintenance or routine inspections; may participate in physical fitness program; build and maintain positive, collaborative working relationships with co-workers, other City employees, personnel from a wide range of outside agencies, other colleagues in the field, and the public; perform related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Any combination of education and/or experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
Training
Equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade. An Associate’s degree in Fire Science is highly desirable.
Special Requirements
Must be at least 18 years of age at time of application.
License or Certificate
- Possession of a valid certification as an EMT with the State of California is required at time of application and must be maintained as a condition of continued employment. Possession of a valid EMT accreditation with the County of San Diego EMS Office is required at time of appointment.
- Valid California Class C Driver’s License at time of appointment.
Knowledge, Skills And Abilities
Knowledge of: emergency medical basic life support principles and procedures; general principles and practices of emergency medical response; San Diego County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) regulations, protocols and procedures; Federal, State and local laws, regulations and standards related to firefighting and para-medicine; maintenance and repair of vehicles, apparatus and equipment; local geographical response factors; English usage, spelling, grammar and punctuation; safety practices and procedures; computer related equipment and software applications related to assignment. Ability to: perform competently under extreme pressure and in stressful situations; make accurate observations and rapid judgments; learn new skills and methods quickly and accurately; work in a variety of weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, wind, dust, etc.) and in extremely hazardous situations; work 24-hour shifts, weekends and holidays; work variable shifts and overtime, as required; perform life saving techniques to victims; maintain and participate in continuing education (CE) requirements associated with an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) accreditation with the State of California and County of San Diego; learn and follow City policies and procedures; learn and follow Fire Department rules and regulations; read and understand printed information during emergency calls; follow written and verbal orders from supervisors; work effectively as a team member of a company, battalion, department, and/or special project groups by following orders, consistently following through with duties/assignments and living harmoniously with co-workers; attend meetings and training activities; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; operate, maintain, inspect and repair vehicles, apparatus and equipment; clean and maintain fire station and grounds; teach classes and participate in public education demonstrations and activities; operate computer related equipment and software applications related to assignment; write comprehensive reports and maintain accurate records; wear approved uniform; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; work with various cultural and ethnic groups in a tactful and effective manner.
Physical Demands and Working Conditions
Must be able to perform a wide range of physical duties to include: constant upward and downward flexion of neck, side-to-side turning of neck; simple grasping and repetitive use of hands to hold radios, equipment and property; fine finger dexterity to manipulate apparatus controls, computer keyboard and writing utensils; lifting and carrying of objects weighing up to 10 lbs. Frequent walking, standing, sitting, kneeling, climbing, balancing and squatting; bending and twisting at the waist; pushing, pulling and reaching above and below shoulder level; power grasping; walking on uneven ground; driving; lifting and carrying of objects weighing up to 25 pounds from below waist to above shoulder level; lifting and carrying objects weighing up to 100 lbs. with or without assistance. Occasional running, crawling; lifting and carrying objects and persons weighing more than 100 lbs. with or without assistance. Work is performed in a variety of weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, wind, dust, etc.) and in extremely hazardous situations such as, at heights, in confined spaces, at temperature extremes, around crowds, with loud noises, with limited visibility, in the presence of hazardous materials, in the presence of victims of death and/or dismemberment.
Additional Information
Examination & Selection Information
Employees in the Emergency Medical Technician (Non-Safety) position are represented by the Non-Safety International Association of Fire Fighters, Local 2180 (Non-Safety IAFF). Click HERE to view the 2025 Non-Safety IAFF Benefits Summary.
To be considered, applicants must submit an online City Application with Supplemental Questionnaire and proof of required certifications. Candidates whose applications indicate education and experience most directly related to the position will be invited to participate in the selection process as described below. All notices regarding this recruitment will be sent electronically to the email associated with your application.
Unless otherwise noted, a passing score must be achieved at each phase of the selection process in order to continue and have your name placed on the City of Chula Vista's eligibility list for hiring consideration. The examination materials for this recruitment are validated, copyrighted, and/or inappropriate for review.
Step 1. Application Review: Applications will be screened on the basis of relevant education, training, and experience to ensure minimum qualifications are met.
At time of application, you must meet the following minimum qualifications:
You must be at least 18 years of age;
You must have completed the equivalent of the twelfth grade; and
You must hold a valid Emergency Medical Technician Certification with the State of California.
(Must be attached to application. Applications without attached documentation will be disqualified, regardless of reason)
Please do not submit any other certifications, licenses, resumes, letters of reference, etc. as they will NOT be considered at this time.
At time of appointment, you must meet the following additional minimum qualifications:
You must hold a valid EMT accreditation with the County of San Diego EMS Office; and
You must have a valid California Class C Driver's License.
Highly Desired Qualification
Associate degree in Fire Science or related field.
Step 2. Supplemental Questionnaire: The supplemental questionnaire is designed to evaluate how your education and experience will relate to this position. Your answers will be evaluated and may be used to determine the most highly qualified candidates.
Step 3. Written Exam: Tentatively scheduled for December 15 and 17, 2025. The written exam will evaluate the candidates' written communication skills, reading comprehension, customer service skills, and EMS job-related knowledge. All EMS-based questions will be based off the reference material included below.
- EMS Field Guide, Basic Life Support Version (BLS), 10th Edition (2024)
- Emergency Care and Transportation of the Sick and Injured, Pollack, A.N., Ed., Jones and Bartlett Publishers, 12th Edition (2022).
Step 5. Fire Chief's Interview
Step 6. Post Offer, Pre-Employment Process: Final candidates will be issued a conditional offer, subject to the successful completion of a pre-employment medical examination and background check consisting of a Live Scan through the California Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Step 7. Orientation Academy: New employees hired in the EMT classification will participate in an EMS Academy.
ALL DATES INDICATED ABOVE ARE TENTATIVE AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE.
Non-Safety IAFF Benefits Summary: Click here.
01
The supplemental questionnaire is used to further evaluate your experience and education to determine your eligibility for this position. Please answer each question accurately and thoroughly. To be considered for this position, the experience you indicate in your responses to the supplemental questions must also be described, in detail, on the Work History/Experience section of your Employment Application. Failure to complete the "Work History/Experience" section of the employment application will result in your application not being considered. Please do not refer your response to your resume. A resume will not be considered in determining your qualifications.
- I have read and acknowledge the instructions stated above.
Are you at least 18 years of age?
- Yes
- No
Which of the following best describes your highest level of education?
- Bachelor's degree or higher
- Associate's degree
- Some college, but no degree
- High school graduate or equivalent
Do you possess a valid EMT Certification in the State of California? (If you answered yes, proof of certification must be attached to your application)
- Yes
- No
Do you possess a valid EMT accreditation with the County of San Diego EMS Office? (If you answered yes, proof of certification must be attached to your application)
- Yes
- No
Which of the following best describes your years of experience as an Emergency Medical Technician?
- Five (5) or more years of experience.
- At least one (1) year but less than five (5) years of experience.
- Less than one (1) year of experience.
- I do not have any relevant work experience as an EMT.
Do you possess a valid California Class C Driver's License?
- Yes
- No
APPLICANT'S ACKNOWLEDGMENT - NOTIFICATION VIA ELECTRONIC MAIL (E-MAIL)
The City Of Chula Vista's Human Resources Department Uses Electronic Mail (e-mail) To Notify Applicants Of Important Information Relating To The Status And Processing Of Your Application. We Do So As Part Of Our Ongoing Efforts To Increase Operational Efficiency, Promote The Conservation Of Green Resources, And Minimize Delays And Costs. Therefore, As An Applicant, You Are Hereby Advised Of The Following
- Ensure that the email address and contact information you provide is current, secure, and readily accessible to you. Do not share email addresses. Spam or other filters should be adjusted to accept our emails. We will not be responsible in any way if you do not receive our emails, i.e., for the non-delivery of email or if you fail to check your email-box on a timely basis, etc.
- Read any notices we send carefully and in a timely manner. Follow further instructions, if any. We recommend that you print and keep a hard copy of our notices for your records.
- I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and agree to the above.
- Required Question
Salary : $40,520 - $71,621
