My brother is a FF/Paramedic in Northern VA. Best job you could every have. I did it for 2 years, I loved it, but the department I worked for was small and pay was low. Bigger departments make good money and benefits. Schedules vary, on average 10 days a month.

Average day is like flying, very boring with moments of excitement. It was always fun driving a big red truck making lots of noise

The best part of the job is the brotherhood. You work and live with the same guys. They become a second family.