Paramedic - Firefighter Cadet Program
Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo View all jobs
- Fort McMurray, AB
- $53.83 per hour
- Permanent
- Full-time
Affiliation: IAFF Local 2494
Position Type: Permanent Full Time
Number of Openings: Multiple
Bi-weekly Working Hours: 84 hours bi-weekly, once assigned to a platoon
Shift/Work Schedule: Monday to Friday during training, then 2 days/2 nights/4 off
Department/ Branch: Regional Emergency Services, Integrated Emergency Response
Job Location: Fort McMurrayProbationary Rate: $50.66
Hourly Rate: $53.83
COLA: Bi-Weekly - $480Posted (dd/mm/yyyy): 06/03/2026
Closing Date (dd/mm/yyyy): 26/04/2026
Posting Type: Internal and ExternalGENERAL DESCRIPTIONThe 2026 Regional Emergency Services (RES) Firefighter Cadet Program provides an opportunity for registered Paramedics to expand their career in public safety and emergency services, by completing fire suppression training while employed with the Fort McMurray Fire Department.Through this program, paramedics will receive comprehensive theoretical and hands-on training at no cost while employed. Upon successful completion of the program, participants will obtain NFPA 1001 Level I and Level II, qualifying them to work as Firefighter Paramedics with the Fort McMurray Fire Department. This program is designed for both experienced paramedics and recent graduates registered with the Alberta College of Paramedics who are motivated to build a long-term career with an integrated service.Firefighter Cadets will train and work in both indoor and outdoor environments and must be prepared to work in all weather conditions and in various challenging training environments. This role is physically demanding and requires regular lifting, carrying, climbing, working in confined spaces, and maintaining a high level of physical fitness.To complete the program and maintain employment, they must:
- Successfully complete all required fire training and evaluations within the program
- Successfully pass the Firefighter Physical Fitness Test administered by the University of Alberta, Keyano College, or Red Deer Polytechnic
- Enter into and fulfill a Return of Service Agreement
- Complete NFPA 1001 Level I and Level II Firefighter, credentials that are required for a career as a Firefighter Paramedic with our integrated service
- Complete several additional relevant courses as part of the program, including NFPA 470 Dangerous Goods Awareness and Operations, NFPA 1002 Driver Operator, and 1140 Wildland Firefighter, HP-CPR, ITLS, NVCI and ICS training, through a comprehensive 17-week training program.
- Gain knowledge of fire and emergency services while completing training that supports career development in Emergency Services
- Safely responding to emergency and non-emergency incidents in accordance with established RES guidelines
- Take direction from operations officers regarding fire and medical response activities
- Perform routine shift duties including basic apparatus and equipment maintenance, records management, and station upkeep
- Assist with public education initiatives, fire safety promotion, fire prevention activities, and public relations campaign
- Attend training courses required to support progression to First Class Firefighter Paramedic
- Perform administrative tasks that support departmental operations and processes
- Support operational continuity within the Regional Emergency Services Department
- Demonstrate understanding of and alignment with the Corporate Mission, Vision, and Values
- Perform other duties as required
- Willingness to learn about fire and emergency services and successfully complete all required training.
- Ability to safely perform physically demanding tasks while wearing personal protective equipment, including SCBA, and working in confined spaces, at heights, and in varying or extreme temperatures.
- Ability to take direction and work effectively within an established chain of command.
- Ability to collaborate in a team environment and contribute to achieving shared goals.
- Effective communication skills, including the ability to listen, follow instructions, and ask questions when needed.
- Ability to maintain composure in stressful environments while demonstrating professionalism, physical fitness, and a commitment to a respectful and inclusive workplace.
- Completion of High School Diploma or GED equivalent is required.
- Currently registered with the Alberta College of Paramedics as a Primary Care Paramedic (PCP) or an Advanced Care Paramedic (ACP), or
- Able to complete the registration process with the Alberta College of Paramedics by Spring 2026.
- Valid Basic Cardiac Life Support (CPR) Certification is required.
- Must be medically and physically fit to perform all the duties of this position on an ongoing basis. A Physical Demands Analysis (PDA) is required
- Successful completion of firefighter physical fitness testing within the last 6 months.
- A medical assessment is required, in accordance with NFPA 1582: Standard on Comprehensive Occupational Medical Program for Fire Departments.
- Clear Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search is required.
- Valid Class Four (4) Alberta Driver's Licence with Q Endorsement is required.
- Valid Class Three (3) Alberta Driver's Licence with Q Endorsement or equivalent out of province is preferred.
Current employees must apply through the internal careers site.
We appreciate the interest of all applicants; however, only those individuals
selected for interviews will be contacted. Late applications will not be accepted.