Getting Hands-On Experience: The North Douglas County Fire & EMS Student Firefighter/EMT Program
Jan 11, 2024
North Douglas County Fire & EMS responds to about 1,600 requests for emergency assistance annually, with 80% of them being medical-related emergencies and 20% of them being fire-related emergencies. We operate out of six fire stations that are strategically placed within our jurisdiction to provide the quickest response possible.
The North Douglas County Fire & EMS Student Firefighter/EMT Program is intended for individuals looking for hands-on experience while enrolled in school directed toward a career in the Fire or EMS service. The program is designed to reflect what the students will experience during their pursuit to become professional firefighters and EMT’s. This is accomplished with assignment to 48-hour shifts with career staff, participating in District training, and periodic individual evaluations on performance.
Our student program members are given exacting training and professional supervision. They are expected to perform their assigned duties and are held accountable for doing so. Students are expected to assist fire department staff with both emergency and non-emergency service activities. This includes, but is not limited to: emergency response, fire prevention activities, hydrant and hose testing, vehicle and station maintenance, and regular training. Graduates of the program find themselves to be highly competitive for future job openings in the fire and medical fields.
Program members are college students attending the accredited school of their choice as full-time students. Students will be considered a part of the “on-duty” crew and will be required to work days, evenings, weekends, and/or holidays. Shifts are 48 hours in duration with 96 hours off in between shifts. They are given time off to attend their classes, provided required uniforms and equipment, trained to exacting standards, and will be able to use department vehicles for transportation to and from all school-related activities.
- Students must be at least 18 years of age at the time of application
- High School Diploma or GED
- Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license, have three years of driving experience, and possess an acceptable driving record
- Students must go to school full-time (12+ credits) at an accredited institution of their choice and work towards a degree in either Fire Science and/or Emergency Medical Technology. Students must attend school at least three terms a year (most students take summer term off)
- Students must maintain a 2.0 GPA each term and submit a copy of their term-by-term transcript after each school term for verification of GPA.
- Students must display levels of physical fitness required to perform essential fire and EMS duties
- Students must be able to pass a background check, medical examination, drug screen, and respiratory fit test (yearly).
- $2500 reimbursement tuition stipend per term to help cover the costs of school
- Potential dorm space for living in a fire station (first-come, first-served basis)
- Gain valuable workplace experience
- Uniforms and equipment are furnished for regular-duty work
- Term-by-term mentorship and assistance in meeting graduation requirements
- Training for required skills and advancement
- Possible fire training includes NFPA Firefighter I + II, NFPA Driver, Wildland Fire[1]fighter I + II, Wildland Engine/Crew Boss, Hazmat Awareness/Operations/Incident Commander, etc.
- EMS training includes: EMT Basic, biannual CPR/First Aid Certification, EMT refresher training for biannual recertification
- Other trainings include: ICS 100, 200, 700, 800
Contact us today to learn more about the opportunities we offer and the benefits that come with volunteering. You can make a difference in your community.
(541) 836-2282