Firefighter Recruit

About This Role

The Columbus Division of Fire is accepting applications for Firefighter Recruits. Columbus is Ohio's largest and fastest-growing city, and the fire division has grown consistently to serve a service area that now spans over 220 square miles. Recruits serve a city home to Ohio State University, a major medical corridor, and a mix of historic and newly constructed neighborhoods.

Job Overview

• Job Title: Firefighter Recruit
• Company: Columbus Division of Fire
• Location: Columbus, OH
• 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

Columbus Fire recruits complete a 16-week training academy at the Alum Creek Training Facility. The division operates 36 fire stations and responds to over 170,000 calls annually. Ohio State's campus generates high-occupancy building responses, while the Short North and Victorian Village neighborhoods present challenging older construction fires.

Key Responsibilities

• Suppress residential and commercial fires across Columbus's diverse neighborhoods
• Provide emergency medical first response and BLS care
• Operate engine and ladder apparatus in both urban core and suburban zones
• Perform technical rescue including vehicle extrication and confined space operations
• Support haz-mat response at Columbus's industrial and chemical storage sites
• Conduct fire inspections and community public education programs

Requirements & Skills

• Ohio residency; must be at least 18 years old
• High school diploma or GED required
• Pass Columbus Civil Service written exam
• CPAT certification required
• Valid Ohio driver's license
• Pass background investigation, medical exam, and psychological evaluation

Benefits & Work Conditions

• $18–$26/hr under IAFF Local 67 collective bargaining agreement
• Ohio Police and Fire Pension Fund (OP&F) — defined benefit pension
• City of Columbus health, dental, and vision coverage
• 24-on/48-off shift schedule
• EMT and paramedic certification pay supplements

Who Should Apply

Ohio residents with a commitment to public service who want to join a large, growing department with a strong union, solid benefits, and genuine career advancement pathways. Columbus Fire is an excellent choice for candidates who value operational volume, reliable department funding, and a city on a clear upward growth trajectory.

About the Company

Columbus Division of Fire operates 36 fire stations with over 1,600 uniformed personnel. As Ohio's largest fire department, it provides fire suppression, EMS, haz-mat, and technical rescue services across a service area that continues to expand with Columbus's ongoing population growth.

How to Apply

Apply through the Columbus Civil Service Commission at columbus.gov/fire/employment. Civil service exam announcements are posted on the recruitment page. The process includes a written exam, CPAT, physical assessment, background investigation, and medical and psychological evaluations.