Emergency Services Instructor I

Starting Compensation:

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Job Description:

JOB SUMMARY

The Emergency Services Instructor I is an entry-level position for an experienced first responder to be trained and become fully qualified as an Emergency Services Instructor III within three (3) years of hire. The Emergency Services Instructor I is responsible for developing, delivering, and evaluating training programs related to firefighting, emergency response, disaster preparedness, and public safety. This role involves instructing first responders, emergency personnel, and community groups in various emergency management topics, including firefighting, rescue, emergency medical response, hazardous materials, search and rescue, and incident command systems (ICS).

The Emergency Services Instructor I will assist with the coordination of all logistics and maintenance of training equipment and props. All Emergency Services Instructors are expected to work uncommon schedules, including evening and weekend shifts, to support the needs of first responder agencies, and may be assigned off-site to attend training and certification programs related to their own professional development and credentialing. In addition, all Emergency Services Instructors may be assigned to assist with the support of training, education, and certification programs, conducted by part-time and contracted employees.

*** This position is also being posted as Emergency Services Instructor II and III. Candidates must submit a separate application for each posting separately and the applications will be evaluated based on Minimum Experience and Training Requirements.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

The Emergency Services Instructor I reports to the Fire Services Coordinator.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Instruction & Training Delivery

• Conduct classroom and hands-on training sessions for emergency personnel and other stakeholders.
• Utilize a variety of instructional methods, including lectures, simulations, practical exercises, and e-learning.
• Ensure all training aligns with federal, state, and local emergency response standards and protocols.

Curriculum Development & Program Management

• Develop, update, and maintain instructional materials, lesson plans, and course content.
• Incorporate best practices, case studies, and real-world scenarios into training.
• Ensure compliance with applicable accreditation, licensing, and certification requirements.

Assessment & Evaluation

• Evaluate participant performance and provide constructive feedback.
• Conduct post-training assessments to measure knowledge retention and skill development.
• Gather feedback to enhance training effectiveness and curriculum relevance.

Emergency Preparedness & Coordination

• Collaborate with emergency response agencies, law enforcement, fire departments, healthcare providers, and government entities to ensure training needs are met.
• Assist in planning and executing emergency drills and exercises in support of first response agency(s) training.
• Stay current on emerging trends, policies, and technologies in fire, rescue, HAZMAT, EMS, emergency management and public safety training.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Collaboration and Coordination:

• Deliver training to and interact with small and large groups (40 plus) without limitations to size.
• Build and maintain partnerships with local, state, and federal agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private sector entities to strengthen preparedness (firefighting, EMS, HAZMAT, Rescue) initiatives.
• Represent the organization at meetings, conferences, and training events related to fire, rescue, HAZMAT, EMS, and EMA training.
• Serve as a key member of the Lancaster County emergency operations center staff.

Administrative Duties:

• Responsible for the PEMA, PA DOH, and OSFC reporting requirements associated with classes.
• Manage budgets and resources related to training class(es), and exercise activities.
• Research and apply for grants to support training initiatives.
• Stay informed of emerging trends and technologies in fire, rescue, HAZMAT, EMS, EMA, training and exercise practices.
• Manage EMS, Fire, Rescue, HAZMAT certification and credentialing in appropriate records management system (RMS) and provide PEMA, PA DOH, OSFC reporting as required.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIREDÂ

• Age – 26 years or older at the time of application per PA Office of the State Fire Commissioner
• A minimum of eight (8) years in public, private, or military emergency fire/rescue service experience after the age of 18.Â
• 150 hours of documented PA State Fire Academy suppression fire training (non-rescue or HazMat) in various non-repetitive disciplines
• High School Diploma or equivalent.  Â
• Current Pennsylvania Emergency Medical Technician Certification to maintain employment
• Current, unrestricted Pennsylvania driver’s license class C.
• Nationally certified Firefighter II.
• Nationally certified Fire Instructor I.
• Emergency vehicle operator’s course, or equivalent
• Must complete the requirements within the Emergency Services Instructor II position description, within 2 years of hire date.
• Must pass PA State Police criminal background check and PA Child Abuse at a minimum every 5 years to maintain employment.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of FEMA’s Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP).
• Organizational and public speaking skills.
• Principles of preparing effective training and educational materials and exercises.
• Computer applications related to the work.
• Methods of record keeping and standard report preparation
• Standard office practices and procedures, including the use of standard office equipment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Ability to perform all physical tasks associated with fire suppression instructing, which can include, at times, hours of standing, walking, wearing structural PPE/SCBA for extended durations, demonstrating and performing fire ground related tasks, such as, but not limited to, lifting, carrying, and deploying ground ladders, deploying fire hose lines. lifting, dragging, rescuing victims, operating in confined spaces, low visibility environments, and all other physical functions associated with practical firefighting, rescue practices, and/or hazardous materials responses and instructions set forth in the associated NFPA standards.
• Ability to work 12 hour shifts and uncommon schedules (i.e., nights, weekends, holidays, etc.)
• Person may participate in field operations and capable of walking extended distances in less-than-ideal conditions (i.e. floods, mud, windstorm aftermath, snow, damage assessment)

The County of Lancaster offers comprehensive benefits to our employees. Â Read more about our benefits here .

Lancaster County Government provides Equal Employment Opportunity for all persons regardless of race, religion, age, sex, national origin, genetic information or disability. The County also observes all applicable laws regarding Veterans status. The County reflects this action in all areas of employment and compensation practices and policies. Employment with the County is based upon the ability to perform the job as well as dependability and reliability once an individual is hired. Â