Firefighter-Paramedic Recruit

About the role

The Firefighter-Paramedic Recruit position is a non-sworn, non-safety, at-will role designed to prepare candidates for a career as a sworn Firefighter-Paramedic with the City of Ventura. Firefighter-Paramedic Recruit Recruits attend an 18-week Fire Academy and may participate in additional departmental training. Training provides an introduction to the fire service, including firefighting techniques, emergency medical response, physical fitness, and applicable rules, regulations, and procedures. Recruits are assigned to a 40-hour work week during the academy and training period. Firefighter-Paramedic Trainee Appointment to the sworn Firefighter-Paramedic Trainee classification is based on overall academy performance and evaluations. Trainees are assigned to a 56-hour work week (24-hour shifts, including weekends and holidays), serve a 12-month probationary period, and perform emergency medical services as a certified paramedic, along with fire service duties including fire suppression, rescue, hazardous materials response, station and equipment maintenance, fire prevention, and public education. Firefighter-Paramedic Trainees who successfully complete one year of full-time firefighting experience advance to the Firefighter-Paramedic classification, performing the full range of journey-level Firefighter-Paramedic duties. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - REQUIRED Education & Experience High school diploma or G.E.D. is required. Age Must be at least 18 years old at the time of application. Citizenship Must be a U.S. citizen or provide proof of application for U.S. citizenship at least one year prior to applying. Background Candidates must successfully complete a comprehensive background investigation. Physical Requirements Must be physically capable of performing all tasks required of a Ventura Firefighter-Paramedic, including the rigorous demands of emergency operations. Must meet California Department of Motor Vehicle visual acuity standards necessary to maintain required licenses. Fitness will initially be determined by possession of a Candidate Physical Abilities Test (CPAT) certificate and the ability to pass a medical evaluation. Desirable Qualifications Associate's degree in Fire Science, Fire Technology certification, or California Firefighter I certification. One year of experience as a 911 emergency paramedic. Some prior firefighting experience. LICENSES & CERTIFICATIONS Required at the Time of Application: Current and valid California Paramedic (EMT-P) license or National Registry Paramedic license Current Healthcare Provider CPR certification Required Prior to Start of the Fire Academy: Current and valid California Class C driver's license with an acceptable driving record Current and valid Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) or Pediatric Education for Pre-Hospital Providers (PEPP) certification, with expiration beyond Academy graduation Current and valid Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification, with expiration beyond Academy graduation Candidate Physical Abilities Test (CPAT) certificate ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT The Ventura Fire Department proudly serves the vibrant and diverse community of Ventura, providing all-hazards emergency response from six strategically located fire stations covering approximately 32 square miles. Each year, our firefighter-paramedics respond to more than 18,000 incidents, including fires, medical emergencies, rescues, hazardous materials responses, and mutual aid calls. As the county seat and home to roughly 110,000 residents, Ventura offers an unmatched quality of life with scenic beaches, parks, trails, and a historic downtown. Built on character, integrity, and accountability, the Ventura Fire Department offers a rewarding career for those committed to protecting others and making a lasting impact in their community. HOW TO APPLY & SELECTION PROCESS Required to Be Placed on the City's Eligibility List In addition to the above, candidates must meet the following requirements: Obtain a valid Cal-JAC Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) card dated between 08/06/25 and 08/07/26. Achieve a passing score on the FCTC Written Exam administered between 08/07/25 and 08/07/26. Be active on the

Benefits

Additional Information

Applications are accepted exclusively through the City of Ventura Career Site: www.cityofventura.ca.gov/jobs . Submissions through other websites or methods will not be accepted. Pay & Benefits Whether you're starting your career journey or seeking new opportunities, we welcome all and offer: Competitive pay and benefits Comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance Retirement: CalPERS retirement system Wellness Program PAY (DOQ) Firefighter-Paramedic Recruit: $37.9776 hourly Firefighter-Paramedic Trainee: $42.37-$51.50 hourly (40-hour week) Firefighter-Paramedic Trainee: $30.26-$36.78 hourly (56-hour week) Firefighter-Paramedic: $44.49-$56.78 hourly (40-hour week) Firefighter-Paramedic: $31.78-$40.55 hourly (56-hour week)

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