Firefighter Recruit

About This Role

The Charlotte Fire Department is hiring Firefighter Recruits for one of the fastest-growing fire departments in the Southeast. Charlotte's banking and finance sector has driven massive commercial construction downtown, while sprawling residential developments extend the service area across Mecklenburg County — giving recruits exposure to both high-rise commercial and suburban residential response environments.

Job Overview

• Job Title: Firefighter Recruit
• Company: Charlotte Fire Department
• Location: Charlotte, NC
• Job Type: Full-time
• Experience Level: Entry-level
• Salary Range: $17–$24/hr
• Posted Date: 2026-06-01
• Application Deadline: 2026-07-01

Role Context

CFD recruits complete a 16-week academy covering structural firefighting, EMS, and technical rescue fundamentals. The department operates 44 fire stations and responds to roughly 120,000 calls annually. Charlotte's banking district high-rises and Charlotte Douglas International Airport add complexity to the operational environment that new firefighters encounter early in their careers.

Key Responsibilities

• Respond to structural fires in Charlotte's residential and commercial neighborhoods
• Provide BLS emergency medical services as a North Carolina-certified EMT
• Support high-rise firefighting operations in Charlotte's downtown financial district
• Perform vehicle extrication and technical rescue operations
• Assist with airport response contingency operations at Charlotte Douglas International
• Conduct fire prevention inspections and community education activities

Requirements & Skills

• North Carolina residency; must be at least 18 years old
• High school diploma or GED required
• Pass CFD written exam and physical ability evaluation
• CPAT certification required
• Valid North Carolina driver's license
• Pass background investigation, drug screening, and medical evaluation

Benefits & Work Conditions

• $17–$24/hr with regular step increases
• North Carolina Local Governmental Employees' Retirement System pension
• Health, dental, and vision coverage through the city
• 24-on/48-off shift schedule
• Tuition assistance and certification pay for EMT and paramedic credentials

Who Should Apply

North Carolina residents seeking an entry-level firefighting career in a growing, well-resourced department. Charlotte FD is actively expanding its station footprint and welcomes candidates who bring physical fitness, community commitment, and a long-term view of a career in the fire service.

About the Company

Charlotte Fire Department operates 44 fire stations with over 1,100 uniformed personnel. It serves one of the Southeast's largest and fastest-growing metropolitan areas, including Charlotte's nationally significant banking headquarters, major sports venues, and a rapidly expanding suburban population.

How to Apply

Apply at charlottenc.gov/fire/careers. Exam cycles are announced on the department website. The hiring process includes a written examination, physical ability test, CPAT, oral board, background investigation, and medical and psychological evaluations.