Firefighter Recruit

About This Role

The Los Angeles Fire Department is recruiting Firefighter Recruits to serve one of the busiest and most respected fire agencies in the world. Covering 470 square miles and handling over 400,000 calls annually, LAFD recruits respond to structure fires, medical emergencies, wildland fires, and technical rescues across the city.

Job Overview

• Job Title: Firefighter Recruit
• Company: Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD)
• Location: Los Angeles, CA (multiple stations)
• Job Type: Full-time
• Experience Level: Entry-level
• Salary Range: $24–$34/hr
• Posted Date: 2026-06-01
• Application Deadline: 2026-07-01

Role Context

Recruits enter LAFD's 18-week Fire Academy, one of the most demanding in the country. Upon graduation, you are assigned to a station on a 24-on/48-off shift schedule. LAFD stations handle wildland-urban interface fires in addition to standard structural and EMS calls, making the training breadth unusually wide for a municipal department.

Key Responsibilities

• Respond to structure fires, vehicle fires, and wildland fire incidents
• Provide Basic Life Support (BLS) and first responder medical care at emergency scenes
• Operate pumper apparatus, aerial ladders, and rescue equipment
• Perform search and rescue, ventilation, and suppression tasks under incident command
• Maintain station equipment, apparatus, and personal protective gear
• Complete required continuing education and annual recertification training

Requirements & Skills

• Must be at least 18 years old with a valid California driver's license
• High school diploma or GED required; EMT-Basic certification preferred at hire
• Pass the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) prior to academy entry
• No felony convictions; background investigation required
• Good vision correctable to 20/20 and color vision within acceptable range
• Ability to work in confined spaces, at heights, and in high-heat environments

Benefits & Work Conditions

• $24–$34/hr with regular step increases and overtime opportunities
• City of Los Angeles pension plan (defined benefit)
• Full medical, dental, and vision coverage for employee and dependents
• 24-on/48-off shift schedule allowing significant time off between shifts
• Tuition reimbursement and career advancement to Engineer, Captain, and beyond

Who Should Apply

Physically fit individuals who thrive in high-stakes team environments. LAFD values diversity and actively recruits candidates from all backgrounds. If you are committed to public service, can perform under pressure, and want a career with genuine purpose in one of America's largest cities, this is that role.

About the Company

The Los Angeles Fire Department operates 106 fire stations with over 3,400 uniformed personnel. It is nationally recognized for its technical rescue, urban search and rescue (USAR), and swift water rescue capabilities, in addition to its wildland firefighting resources deployed across Southern California.

How to Apply

Apply through the City of Los Angeles Personnel Department at lafd.org/join. The process includes a written exam, CPAT, medical evaluation, psychological screening, and a background investigation. Open exams are announced periodically — sign up for notifications on the LAFD website.