FTO Driver in Elgin

At Carolina First EMS, we put high-quality health-care within your reach. Whether you use a wheelchair or require stretcher transport, we have the equipment and expertise you need to get to your appointments on-time and hassle-free. Whether you live in an extended care facility or the same house you moved into 50 years ago, we specialize in helping you make full use of our community’s healthcare options.

Position Summary

The Field Training Officer (FTO) – EMS Driver at Carolina First EMS is responsible for safely operating emergency vehicles while providing mentorship, evaluation, and hands-on training to newly hired EMS Drivers. The FTO ensures all assigned trainees demonstrate competency in ambulance operations, safety compliance, patient care support functions, equipment usage, software systems, and professional conduct in accordance with agency policies, state regulations, and established training standards. The FTO is directly responsible for verifying that each new employee is competent and prepared to be cleared for independent duty. This position combines operational excellence with leadership and instructional responsibilities to support the development of safe, skilled, and professional EMS Drivers.

Primary Responsibilities

• Emergency Vehicle Operations: Safely operate ambulances in accordance with all applicable state laws, agency policies, and emergency vehicle operation standards. Demonstrate and teach defensive driving techniques and safe response protocols. Always drive with due regard for public and crew safety. Utilize a designated backer when reversing the ambulance and ensure trainees follow proper backing procedures.
• Training, Competency & Evaluation: Provide structured field training to new EMS Drivers following the onboarding and education plan established by the Training Manager. Ensure each new employee demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and judgment required to perform assigned duties safely and effectively prior to being cleared from training. Assess and document trainee competency in all operational, safety, and support functions. Provide constructive, documented feedback and remedial instruction when necessary. Communicate trainee progress, strengths, deficiencies, and final clearance recommendations to the Operations Manager and Training Manager as required. Withhold clearance and notify leadership if a trainee does not meet established competency standards.
• Equipment & Software Proficiency: Train and evaluate new employees on the proper and safe use of all patient movement devices, including but not limited to stretchers, stair chairs, slide sheets, and other lifting/movement equipment. Ensure trainees demonstrate safe body mechanics and compliance with lifting and safety policies. Train and verify proficiency in all required agency software systems, documentation platforms, communication tools, and onboard equipment necessary to perform job duties effectively. Confirm trainees can accurately complete required documentation and properly operate all assigned equipment prior to release from training.
• Vehicle Readiness & Maintenance: Perform and instruct trainees on daily vehicle inspections, including fluid levels, tire condition, safety equipment, and operational readiness checks. Ensure the ambulance is cleaned, restocked, fueled, and prepared for service at the end of each shift. Submit maintenance requests promptly for identified vehicle deficiencies.
• Patient Care Support: Assist EMTs and lead providers by retrieving equipment and supplies during patient care operations. Remain with the assigned lead provider during patient care activities and while outside the unit. Respond to life-threatening situations by performing basic interventions, including CPR and AED use, when indicated. Co-sign patient care reports (PCRs) alongside the lead provider prior to shift completion, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Communication & Professionalism: Maintain clear, professional communication with the Team Lead, Dispatch, hospital personnel, and other emergency responders. Serve as a role model for professionalism, teamwork, accountability, and ethical conduct. Promote a culture of safety, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record in accordance with agency policy.
• Current CPR/AED/Basic First Aid certification.
• Successful completion of Carolina First EMS Driver onboarding program.
• Demonstrated proficiency in emergency vehicle operations.
• Strong communication, leadership, and evaluation skills.
• Availability to work weekends.

Preferred

• Prior EMS experience.
• Previous training or instructional experience.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Thorough understanding of emergency vehicle operation and safety regulations.
• Ability to effectively teach, mentor, and evaluate adult learners.
• Strong situational awareness and sound judgment under stress.
• Ability to assess competency objectively and uphold agency standards.
• Commitment to safety, compliance, and high-quality patient support.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to safely lift, maneuver, and operate patient movement devices consistent with EMS operational demands.
• Ability to sit for extended periods while operating a vehicle.
• Ability to work in high-stress and physically demanding environments.

Work Environment

• Variable shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Exposure to emergency scenes, inclement weather, and high-traffic environments.

Leadership Expectations

The FTO – EMS Driver is expected to exemplify Carolina First EMS standards of safety, professionalism, and operational excellence. This role is critical in shaping new drivers’ performance, reinforcing agency culture, and ensuring that only competent, confident, and qualified employees are cleared for independent duty. Carolina First EMS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.