Become a Firefighter (Paramedic) with the VA in Perry Point
Are you a certified Paramedic with a passion for public service? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is looking for a skilled Firefighter (Paramedic) to protect those who have served our nation. Based in Perry Point, Maryland, this position is more than just a job—it is a chance to provide critical emergency care and fire suppression services within an honorable healthcare environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Firefighter (Paramedic), your role is diverse and highly impactful. Key duties include:
- Emergency Medical Response: Perform initial and continuous patient assessments, manage cardiac and respiratory emergencies, and provide advanced life support.
- Fire Suppression: Respond to fire alarms and emergencies, operating specialized apparatus to contain or extinguish fires.
- Hazardous Materials: Act as a first responder for chemical incidents, assessing risks and environmental impact.
- Fire Prevention: Conduct quarterly safety inspections and ensure fire detection systems are operational.
Comparison of Key Requirements
| Requirement | Status |
|---|---|
| NFPA Firefighter I/II | Required |
| Paramedic Certification | Required |
| Driver's License | Required |
| Age Limit (Entry) | Under 37 (with exceptions) |
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must provide proof of current, valid certifications, including Firefighter I/II, Paramedic (National Registry), Fire Apparatus Operator, and Hazardous Materials Operations. Applicants must also possess a clean driver’s license and be able to meet the physical standards required for hazardous and arduous firefighting duties.
Salary and Benefits
The salary for this position ranges from $68,013 to $88,421 per year. Beyond the pay, the VA offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Federal health insurance and retirement plans
- Generous annual leave and sick time accrual
- Work-life balance with predictable scheduling
If you are ready to use your paramedic and firefighting expertise to serve our veterans, this is the perfect opportunity. Ensure your application is complete, your certifications are current, and your resume adheres to the two-page limit. We look forward to receiving your application by August 25, 2026.
Why This Firefighter (Paramedic) Job Matters
Answer the call of duty for those who served—launch a rewarding career in fire protection and emergency services with the VA.
Firefighter (Paramedic) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Firefighter (Paramedic) to join the Fire Protection Section at the Perry Point, Maryland facility. In this vital role, you will perform fire suppression, emergency medical response, and hazard mitigation to ensure the safety of our veterans and medical staff. This position is essential to maintaining a secure, emergency-ready environment for our healthcare community.
Requirements for Firefighter (Paramedic)
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Must be 37 years of age or younger at the time of appointment (exceptions apply for veterans/prior service).
- Current and valid state-issued driver's license.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Must successfully complete a background and suitability investigation.
- Must maintain required NFPA fire and paramedic certifications.
- Must meet physical medical standards for arduous fire service duties.
Preferred Qualifications for Firefighter (Paramedic)
- Fire Inspector I Certification (NFPA 1031).
- Fire Inspector II Certification (NFPA 1031).
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary and benefits package.
- ✓Generous paid leave (vacation and sick time).
- ✓Predictable and flexible scheduling opportunities.
- ✓Professional development and training support.
- ✓Opportunities to serve the veteran community.
- ✓Federal retirement programs and insurance options.
💡 How to Apply Firefighter (Paramedic) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Firefighter (Paramedic) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Ensure your resume is two pages or less and follows specific formatting guidelines.
- Apply online and complete the required questionnaire.
- Submit all necessary certifications, including Paramedic and Firefighter I/II credentials.
- Check your email for instructions to complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessment.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly lists the month, year, and hours worked per week for every job listed.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet the strict two-page limit.
- Save your resume and documents as PDFs to preserve formatting.
- Set aside three hours for the online assessments, but know you can save your progress if needed.
- Verify that your certifications are active and uploaded prior to the closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum age to apply?
Generally, applicants must not have reached their 37th birthday. However, prior Federal firefighting service may be subtracted to meet the requirement.
Are the Inspector certifications required for hire?
No, they are not required at the time of hiring, but you must obtain them within two years of employment.
What is the shift schedule?
This position operates on rotating shifts totaling 72 hours per week.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. We provide care to our nation's veterans, prioritizing compassion, excellence, and gratitude in every interaction. Working for the VA means becoming part of a community dedicated to serving the men and women who have sacrificed for our freedom.