The Philadelphia Fire Department (PFD) hires state-certified paramedics to work in one of the busiest EMS systems in the nation. In addition to providing excellent emergency medical care, the ideal candidates will be able to comfort patients; keep accurate records; and cooperate with fire and police officials. Our motto is “Dedication + Service,” and members live those values every day in the City of Philadelphia.
How do I apply to be a paramedic in the PFD?
The City’s Office of Human Resources is last accepted paramedic applications Jan. 8 – 19, 2024. If you’d like to be notified when another application period opens, you can fill out an interest form.
Do I need to be a Philadelphia resident to apply?
No. The Civil Service Commission has waived the usual requirement that candidates must be residents of Philadelphia for a year prior to appointment. Establishment of residency in Philadelphia will be required no later than 18 months after appointment.
I’m not a paramedic but would like to be one. Will the PFD train me to become a paramedic?
No. The PFD only hires individuals who are already state-certified paramedics or National Registry-certified paramedics (military network) with a valid state-issued driver’s license.
What if I’m certified as a paramedic in a state other than Pennsylvania? What if I’m a certified paramedic on the National Registry and working in another state?
Out-of-state certified paramedics and National Registry-certified paramedics need to contact the Regional EMS Office (215-685-4216) to obtain a Certification by Endorsement packet. The packet provides step-by-step instructions to obtain a Pennsylvania paramedic certification.
How does the hiring process work?
- The online application process requires candidates to submit all relevant documentation, including college transcripts, licenses and certifications. You must also provide a detailed description of your education, experience and credentials.
- Applicants are evaluated and scored based upon their training and experience credentials.
- The list of qualified candidates is published about three weeks after the application period closes. When the PFD forms a paramedic class, candidates will be contacted in their rank order. The pre-employment process includes a physical exam, background check and a review to identify potential indebtedness to city agencies.
- After accepting a position as a cadet in a paramedic class, cadets must complete a 12-week training program at the Philadelphia Fire Academy. Cadets are paid as employees during this training.
- Once paramedics have completed training, they are sworn in and mentored in the field by a senior paramedic for several weeks before being assigned to a medic unit. Each new paramedic must complete a one-year probationary period. Paramedics work on a platoon schedule: two day shifts, then two night shifts, followed by four days off.
What can I expect during the 12-week training program at the Fire Academy?
Paramedic cadets participate in daily physical workouts in addition to classroom learning and field exercises. Training also covers basic vehicle rescue; hazardous materials awareness and operations; how to treat children who are seriously ill or injured; how to respond during active shooter incidents; and the rules, regulations and procedures of the PFD.
How much does a paramedic earn in the PFD?
The annual salary for a first-year paramedic is $61,888. There are scheduled increases in pay to the present maximum of $94,549 a year. Overtime is paid at the level of time and a half. There are opportunities for promotion, which include a raise in salaries. Paramedics are paid biweekly. Salary does not include your annual uniform allowance or holiday time. Details on benefits can be found here.
How do I become a state-certified paramedic?
If you want to become a paramedic in Pennsylvania, you must first be an EMT certified by the state or National Registry. Then, after successful completion of a paramedic education program, you must pass the NREMT-P exam (National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians-Paramedic).
Does the PFD hire emergency medical technicians (EMTs)?
Applications for EMT were last accepted from Sept. 5-23, 2022. Applications for Advanced EMTs were last accepted from Nov. 28 to Dec. 9, 2022. For more information, contact the PFD Recruitment Unit at 215-685-3748.
What if my question isn’t answered here?
For questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at hrhelpdesk@phila.gov or 215-686-0880. For questions about job duties, please contact the PFD Recruitment Unit at PFDrecruitment@phila.gov or 215-685-3748.
