Firefighter Recruit

About This Role

The Chicago Fire Department is accepting applications for Firefighter Recruits. Founded in 1858, CFD operates 98 fire stations and responds to over 500,000 incidents per year. Recruits serve a city built on a dense mix of historic rowhouses, modern high-rises, and industrial corridors — an environment that demands versatile, well-trained firefighters.

Job Overview

• Job Title: Firefighter Recruit
• Company: Chicago Fire Department
• Location: Chicago, IL (citywide station assignments)
• Job Type: Full-time
• Experience Level: Entry-level
• Salary Range: $22–$32/hr
• Posted Date: 2026-06-01
• Application Deadline: 2026-07-01

Role Context

CFD Recruits attend a 28-week training academy covering structural firefighting, EMS, haz-mat operations, and Chicago-specific building challenges such as high-rise standpipe operations and balloon-frame construction fires. Graduates work a 24-on/48-off rotation with relief days, assigned to engine, truck, or squad companies.

Key Responsibilities

• Suppress fires in residential, commercial, industrial, and high-rise structures
• Operate engine and truck apparatus, including aerial and tower ladder equipment
• Provide emergency medical services at the EMT or Paramedic level
• Conduct haz-mat response operations at the awareness and operations level
• Execute technical rescue including vehicle extrication and confined space entry
• Maintain apparatus, tools, and station facilities to department readiness standards

Requirements & Skills

• Chicago residency required at time of appointment
• Must pass the CFD written entrance examination
• CPAT certification required prior to academy start
• High school diploma or GED; EMT-Basic certification is an advantage
• Valid Illinois driver's license with clean record
• Successfully complete medical, psychological, and background screening

Benefits & Work Conditions

• $22–$32/hr with negotiated union wage increases
• Defined benefit pension through the Firemen's Annuity & Benefit Fund of Chicago
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and uniform allowance
• Career advancement opportunities to Lieutenant, Captain, and District Chief

Who Should Apply

Chicago residents who are physically fit, committed to community service, and able to perform effectively in high-stress emergency conditions. CFD values candidates who bring both physical readiness and the emotional resilience to serve in one of the country's most active urban fire environments.

About the Company

The Chicago Fire Department has protected the city since 1858, gaining global recognition for its response to challenging urban fire conditions. CFD operates engine, truck, squad, and battalion companies with specialized units for marine, haz-mat, and technical rescue operations.

How to Apply

Applications open periodically through the City of Chicago's Department of Human Resources. Monitor chicago.gov/fire for exam announcements. The process includes a written exam, CPAT, medical evaluation, psychological assessment, and residency verification.