Firefighter I

About This Role

The Nashville Fire Department is recruiting Firefighter I candidates to serve one of the Southeast's fastest-growing cities. Nashville's explosive population growth has driven a steady expansion of NFD's station count, creating ongoing demand for entry-level firefighters in a department that balances a busy entertainment district, a large medical complex, and rapidly developing suburban neighborhoods.

Job Overview

• Job Title: Firefighter I
• Company: Nashville Fire Department
• Location: Nashville, TN
• Job Type: Full-time
• Experience Level: Entry-level
• Salary Range: $18–$26/hr
• Posted Date: 2026-06-01
• Application Deadline: 2026-07-01

Role Context

Nashville FD recruits complete a 16-week training academy. The department operates 40 fire stations and responds to over 130,000 calls annually. NFD's service area includes Vanderbilt University Medical Center and a major entertainment district on Broadway — two environments that generate complex, high-profile incidents for even new firefighters in their first assignments.

Key Responsibilities

• Respond to residential, commercial, and entertainment district fire incidents
• Provide emergency medical first response as a certified EMT
• Support major medical facility response at Nashville's hospital campuses
• Perform vehicle extrication and flood rescue during severe weather events
• Conduct fire prevention inspections and public education activities
• Maintain apparatus and station readiness on a 24-hour rotating schedule

Requirements & Skills

• Tennessee residency; must be at least 18 years old
• High school diploma or GED required
• Pass NFD written examination and physical ability test
• CPAT certification required before academy entry
• Valid Tennessee driver's license
• Pass background investigation, drug screen, and medical evaluation

Benefits & Work Conditions

• $18–$26/hr with merit step increases
• Metro Nashville Government pension plan (defined benefit)
• Health, dental, and vision coverage
• 24-on/48-off shift schedule
• Education incentive pay and paramedic advancement opportunities

Who Should Apply

Tennessee residents who want to serve in a rapidly growing department in one of the South's most vibrant cities. Nashville FD offers strong career progression opportunities driven by the city's ongoing growth — new stations open regularly, and motivated firefighters advance to Driver/Engineer and officer ranks within realistic timeframes.

About the Company

Nashville Fire Department operates 40 fire stations with over 1,000 uniformed personnel serving Metro Nashville's 526 square miles. The department continues to expand in response to Nashville's status as one of the fastest-growing major metros in the United States.

How to Apply

Apply at nashville.gov/fire/recruiting. Exam announcements are posted on the NFD recruiting page. The hiring process includes a written exam, physical ability test, CPAT, oral board, background investigation, and medical and psychological evaluations.