Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from Arlington County Government
Job overview
The Lateral Firefighter/EMT role at Arlington County Fire Department involves joining as an experienced firefighter/EMT to respond to emergencies and contribute to community safety in a dynamic urban environment.
Responsibilities and impact
The job requires responding to fire suppression, hazardous materials mitigation, and emergency medical services, participating in special operations teams, and engaging in training and community safety efforts.
Compensation and benefits
The position offers a competitive salary with step placement credit for prior service, hiring bonuses up to $15,000, premium pay for certifications, paid leave, comprehensive health insurance, dental, vision, and a generous pension plan.
Experience and skills
Candidates must have at least two years of full-time firefighter/EMT experience, certifications including Firefighter I and II, NREMT-Basic, CPR, Hazmat Awareness, EVOC, and ICS courses; equivalent certifications are accepted; advanced EMT or paramedic certifications are preferred.
Career development
The department supports career growth through paid lateral firefighter school, advancement opportunities to ALS certification, and diverse roles in fire prevention, communications, and training.
Work environment and culture
Arlington County Fire Department offers a collaborative, progressive, and diverse work environment with a focus on innovation and community partnership in a fast-paced urban setting.
Company information
Arlington County Government operates a progressive fire department serving a diverse urban population with a history of innovation and specialized emergency response teams.
Team overview
Candidates will join a team that includes special operations units such as Hazmat, Technical Rescue, Swift Water Rescue, and Bomb Squad, working collaboratively with regional partners.
Job location and travel
The job is located in Arlington, Virginia, serving a community of over 235,000 residents including urban high-rises, a metro system, and a major airport.
Application process
Applicants must complete a thorough application including prior job responsibilities and supplemental questions, provide contact information, and undergo interview, psych evaluation, polygraph, background check, and a lateral transfer academy up to 4 weeks.
Unique job features
The role offers unique hiring bonuses, premium pay for advanced certifications, paid training, a predictable schedule with approximately 50-hour work weeks, and opportunities to work in specialized emergency response teams.
Company overview
Arlington County Government is the administrative body for Arlington County, Virginia, overseeing public services such as education, transportation, and public safety. They generate revenue through property taxes, business licenses, and service fees. Established in 1801, Arlington has a rich history, including its role as a significant Civil War site and its proximity to Washington, D.C. This government entity is known for its innovative urban planning and commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
How to land this job
Position your resume to highlight your experience as a full-time firefighter/EMT with certifications such as Firefighter II, NREMT-Basic, CPR, Hazmat Awareness/Operations, EVOC, and ICS courses to match Arlington County Government's detailed requirements.
Emphasize your prior service years, certifications, and any advanced qualifications like ALS or paramedic certifications to qualify for competitive step placement and hiring bonuses.
Apply through multiple channels including the Arlington County Government official website and LinkedIn to maximize your application visibility and ensure you meet all application requirements including the supplemental questions and prior job details.
Connect on LinkedIn with current Arlington County Fire Department personnel or HR representatives; start conversations by asking about their experience with the lateral transfer academy or their favorite aspects of working in Arlington's diverse emergency environment.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating exact keywords from the job description such as 'Firefighter II,' 'Emergency Medical Technician,' 'Hazmat Awareness,' 'EVOC,' 'ICS,' and 'lateral transfer' to ensure your resume passes initial screenings.
Use Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate submitting tailored applications through multiple platforms, optimize your resume for ATS, and identify LinkedIn contacts for networking, allowing you to focus on preparing for interviews and advancing your firefighting career.
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