Position Summary
The EMS Director is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the Emergency Medical Services department while providing clinical leadership, guidance, and support to EMS personnel. This position ensures the delivery of professional, effective, and high-quality emergency medical care while maintaining compliance with applicable regulations, organizational policies, and established procedures.
Responsibilities include department management, staff supervision and development, scheduling, training, equipment and supply management, documentation, and coordination with hospital leadership and other emergency response personnel. This position also maintains clinical responsibilities and assists with ambulance coverage as needed.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Department Leadership & Staff Management
• Lead and oversee EMS department operations, promoting professionalism, accountability, and high standards of patient care.
• Develop, implement, and assist with interpretation of departmental policies and procedures in coordination with the Director of Nursing.
• Prepare monthly staff schedules and coordinate ambulance coverage, including every-third-weekend coverage.
• Provide staff orientation, ongoing education, and oversight of required training and certifications.
• Conduct monthly staff meetings, maintain meeting documentation, and complete annual employee evaluations.
• Work with the Director of Nursing and Human Resources to support recruitment, onboarding, and adequate staffing.
• Assist with timekeeping responsibilities, including entering employee time and approving timecards.
• Provide clinical guidance and leadership in problem-solving situations.
Clinical & Patient Care Responsibilities
• Perform focused patient histories and physical assessments for medical and trauma emergencies.
• Evaluate emergency situations and determine appropriate treatment and interventions based on established protocols.
• Provide advanced medical care using appropriate emergency medical equipment, including cardiac monitors, defibrillators, ventilators, IV pumps, and other clinical equipment.
• Demonstrate strong triage, assessment, and clinical decision-making skills.
• Operate the ambulance and communicate effectively with patients, families, medical providers, and other emergency personnel.
• Assist with ambulance call coverage during off-hours as needed.
Equipment, Supplies & Department Operations
• Ensure ambulances are properly stocked, clean, and maintained.
• Oversee routine equipment inspections, quality checks, and maintenance.
• Ensure medical supplies are available and equipment is maintained according to established standards.
• Ensure staff follow appropriate infection prevention practices and exposure-control procedures.
• Assist with departmental inventory and annual budget development.
Documentation & Communication
• Maintain accurate departmental records, reports, and required documentation.
• Monitor employee certifications, training records, and competency requirements.
• Complete annual departmental statistics and other required reports.
• Maintain open communication with the Director of Nursing, hospital leadership, providers, and other department supervisors regarding operational needs and concerns.
Education, Outreach & Emergency Preparedness
• Coordinate educational programs and outreach activities for area emergency services.
• Coordinate and instruct EMT and AEMT courses as needed.
• Work with the hospital's bioterrorism, trauma, and safety coordinators to develop and participate in multi-casualty and disaster drills.
• Maintain continuing education and competency requirements to stay current with medical advancements and emergency care practices.
Required Qualifications & Certifications
• Current South Dakota certification as an Advanced EMT (AEMT) or Paramedic, or South Dakota Registered Nurse licensure.
• National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians certification as an Advanced EMT or Paramedic, as applicable.
• Current BLS, ACLS, PALS or PEPP, and PHTLS certifications.
• Ability to obtain and maintain instructor status for CPR and applicable advanced emergency care courses, including PHTLS, PEPP, ACLS, and PALS, as needed.
• Valid driver's license with a driving record that meets organizational insurability requirements.
• Knowledge of and compliance with applicable South Dakota EMS laws and regulations, including SDCL 36-4B-13 through 36-4B-20.
Skills & Abilities
• Strong clinical assessment, critical-thinking, and decision-making skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to lead, develop, and work collaboratively with EMS personnel and hospital departments.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage departmental responsibilities while maintaining clinical competency.
• Commitment to patient safety, confidentiality, and professional standards.
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
• Ability to bend, stoop, and participate in physically demanding activities.
• Ability to perform heavy lifting with assistance, including maneuvering patients onto stretchers and transporting patients over stairs and varied terrain.
• Ability to work in a variety of weather conditions and environments, both inside and outside the hospital.
• Ability to respond to emergency situations and perform required patient care duties.
Additional Information
This position may require additional duties and responsibilities as assigned. The EMS Director is expected to serve as a positive representative of Mobridge Regional Hospital & Clinics and maintain patient, employee, and organizational confidentiality.