Firefighter Trainee 40 - Proactive Recruitment Training Program (PRTP)

Pay Range: $16.40 Hourly Rate

Shift: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (40 Hours/Week) Hours may vary depending on school schedule.

Major Function: Responsible for technical, academic, and physical training work performed under the Proactive Recruitment and Training Program (PRTP) in partnership with Polk County Fire Rescue. This apprenticeship provides full-time paid training designed to develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to obtain State of Florida Firefighter and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification. Trainees progress through structured coursework, supervised field experiences, physical conditioning, and scenario-based activities while upholding the core PRTP values of Pride, Respect, Integrity, Courage, and Excellence (P.R.I.C.E). The position prepares individuals for transition into Firefighter-EMT roles with Polk County Fire Rescue.

Illustrative Duties: Participates in full-time structured training in firefighting, rescue operations, and emergency medical services. Attends classroom instruction and hands-on field training to develop discipline, teamwork, safety habits, and essential fire service skills. Trains in fire behavior, suppression principles, emergency medical treatment, rescue procedures, and patient care methods. Practices defensive driving, roadway familiarization, safe vehicle operations, and response modes. Participates in realistic emergency simulations involving heat, smoke, confined spaces, heights, and physically strenuous tasks. Learns and practices tool selection, situational awareness, size-up, risk-reduction techniques, and emergency response procedures. Learns apparatus operation and assists with driving and navigating equipment under supervision. Participates in ladder evolutions, hose handling, ventilation tasks, live-fire drills, and multi-story operations. Assists with equipment maintenance, apparatus readiness, tool checks, and facility upkeep. Keeps firefighting equipment, vehicles, and tools in proper working condition by performing routine safety and maintenance inspections.

Professional and Program Responsibilities: Participates in physical fitness development and scenario-based exercises preparing for Polk County Fire Rescue Fire Academy entry. Participates in scheduled weekly physical fitness evaluations to assess progress and ensure readiness for the physical demands of fire and EMS training. Engages in leadership training and public speaking development. Represents Polk County Fire Rescue at community outreach, education, and recruitment events. Demonstrates professionalism and integrity consistent with P.R.I.C.E. values throughout the program. Performs other duties as assigned to support training and program operations.

Knowledge, Abilities and Skills: Ability to learn and apply firefighting, rescue, and emergency medical principles and techniques. Ability to analyze situations quickly and determine the proper course of action. Ability to react calmly, effectively, and safely under emergency conditions. Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting, carrying, climbing, and operating in extreme environments. Ability to follow complex oral and written instructions accurately. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and function as part of a team. Ability to communicate clearly, both orally and in writing, with colleagues and the public. Ability to maintain emotional control, sound judgment, and professionalism under stress.

Minimum Qualifications: At least 18 years of age. Graduate of an accredited high school or possession of an equivalent diploma. Must be a continuous Polk County resident for two (2) years prior to application and maintain residency throughout participation. Valid State of Florida driver's license with an acceptable driving record (no recent suspensions, major violations, or patterns of unsafe behavior). Must have not accrued 12 points within 36 months or 18 points within 48 months. Passes criminal background check, fingerprinting, drug screening, medical evaluation, and psychiatric evaluation. Physically capable of performing essential fire and EMS training duties, including successful completion of required agility testing. Legally authorized to work in the United States. Meets HUD low-income household guidelines (?50% Area Median Income), based on the most current HUD Income Limits published for the applicable year, and provides required documentation. Does not currently hold State of Florida Firefighter or EMT certification. Demonstrates good moral character and ability to commit to the program's expectations and values.

Special Requirements: Must maintain an active cellphone for communication and scheduling. Must successfully obtain and maintain FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) security clearance. Must obtain a State of Florida Paramedic Certification within three (3) years of completing the program (required for continued employment).Upon selection for employment, must sign a reimbursement agreement covering program training costs if voluntarily leaving within two (2) years of achieving required certifications. Must complete all training required for Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), State of Florida Firefighter II, and National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) certification. All Polk County BoCC employees will be required to work before, during, or after an emergency. During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location and work schedule to fit the needs of the county and its residents.