The Fayetteville Fire Department is now accepting applications for firefighter positions, and it’s a great opportunity for anyone interested in starting a rewarding career.
Applications are open until January 17, so if you’ve been thinking about a career in firefighting, now’s the time to apply.
To apply for an entry-level position with the Fayetteville Fire Department, you must meet a set of basic requirements and go through a selection process.
Here are the application requirements:
- You must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
- You need to be a U.S. Citizen or a Lawfully Authorized Alien Worker.
- You must provide your original birth certificate (or a notarized copy).
- A high school diploma or equivalent is required, along with the original or notarized copy of your diploma, transcripts, or GED certificate that meets state standards.
- Veterans must prove military service with an honorable discharge (or under honorable conditions), typically using a DD214 form. If you’re currently in the military, an official letter showing your expected separation date is required.
- A valid driver’s license is a must. If you’re from out of state, you must be able to obtain a North Carolina driver’s license within 30 days of starting.
- You must have had no license loss in the past year and should meet the City of Fayetteville’s acceptable driving standards.
- You must have no felony convictions and only a limited number of misdemeanor convictions.
- You must be in good physical condition, able to perform the essential job functions, and willing to submit to a drug screening and physical exam upon receiving a conditional job offer.
- Within one year of employment, you must be able to meet the standards for North Carolina EMT certification.
The selection process involves a written exam (no prior firefighting knowledge needed), a physical ability test to check your fitness for the job, and a panel interview to assess your readiness.
Once selected, new firefighters will attend an 18-week Fire Training Academy at the Fayetteville Technical Community College Fire and Rescue Training Center.
This 24,000-square-foot facility includes classrooms, labs, and fire apparatus bays, which give recruits the hands-on training they need.
For those already working as full-time firefighters, the Fayetteville Fire Department offers a lateral entry program, meaning experienced firefighters can join the department and skip most of the academy.
They can also start with higher pay grades, making the transition to Fayetteville quick and financially beneficial.
In addition to these programs, the city of Fayetteville has increased starting salaries for firefighters as part of the 2025 budget.
New firefighters can expect to start with salaries between $45,000 and $52,310, depending on their experience.
The department also offers a great benefits package and opportunities for growth.
Department firefighters can take advantage of a career development plan that includes training in special areas like hazardous materials, fire investigation, urban search and rescue, and community risk reduction.
Each of these areas offers opportunities for pay increases based on how long you’ve been with the department and what additional training you’ve completed.
Firefighters who continue their education, such as earning a degree, can also earn extra pay through an educational incentive program.
Several specialty programs are available for firefighters interested in focusing on specific service areas, including divisions such as drone operations, emergency preparedness, logistics, and strategic planning.
With many opportunities to specialize, firefighters can grow in many directions while staying committed to the department’s mission.
Beyond its comprehensive training and career development programs, the Fayetteville Fire Department is highly regarded.
It is one of only 120 fire agencies worldwide to be accredited by the Commission on Fire Accreditation International, and it has a Class 1 rating from the Insurance Services Organization (ISO), the highest rating possible for fire protection.
If you’re interested in applying, visit FayettevilleNC.gov/Jobs to submit your application.
The deadline is January 17.
For more details, you can reach out to Recruitment Captain Stephen Shakeshaft directly at (910) 676-1716 or via email at [email protected].
Don’t miss your chance to join this exceptional organization and build a fulfilling career.
