Firefighter Recruit

About This Role

The Phoenix Fire Department is seeking Firefighter Recruits to serve the fifth-largest city in the United States. Phoenix's unique geography presents recruits with extreme summer heat emergencies, desert wildland interface fires, and dense suburban development — a combination that prepares firefighters for a wide range of operational challenges.

Job Overview

• Job Title: Firefighter Recruit
• Company: Phoenix Fire Department
• Location: Phoenix, AZ (multiple station assignments)
• Job Type: Full-time
• Experience Level: Entry-level
• Salary Range: $19–$27/hr
• Posted Date: 2026-06-01
• Application Deadline: 2026-07-01

Role Context

Phoenix FD runs a 16-week recruit academy followed by 12 months of probationary field assignment. The department is a national model for EMS-integrated fire service — all Phoenix firefighters are state-certified EMTs, and many stations include paramedics on every shift. Recruits are assigned to busy stations that average 15–25 calls per day.

Key Responsibilities

• Suppress structural, vehicle, and desert wildland fires in extreme heat conditions
• Provide ALS-support and BLS emergency medical care as a certified EMT
• Perform vehicle extrication, confined space, and high-angle rescue operations
• Respond to heat-related mass casualty events during summer months
• Conduct community risk reduction activities and public education programs
• Participate in ongoing technical training to maintain certifications

Requirements & Skills

• U.S. citizen; Arizona resident preferred at hire
• High school diploma or GED required; 60 college credits preferred
• CPAT certification required before placement on eligibility list
• Valid Arizona driver's license; Class B CDL preferred
• Must meet vision, hearing, and physical fitness standards
• Clean background; no felony or certain misdemeanor convictions

Benefits & Work Conditions

• $19–$27/hr with annual pay steps and overtime pay
• Public Safety Personnel Retirement System (PSPRS) pension
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits
• 24-on/48-off shift schedule with Kelly days
• Education incentive pay for associates, bachelors, or fire science degrees

Who Should Apply

Candidates with strong physical fitness and genuine commitment to emergency service in a high-demand urban environment. Phoenix Fire is known for its progressive EMS culture and community-first approach — it is a strong choice for people who want frequent, meaningful patient contact alongside fire suppression work.

About the Company

Phoenix Fire Department operates 59 fire stations serving 1.6 million residents across 517 square miles. It is consistently ranked among the top fire departments in the country for EMS response, community risk reduction programs, and firefighter safety practices.

How to Apply

Apply at phoenix.gov/fire/careers. The process begins with an online application, followed by a written exam, CPAT, oral board interview, background investigation, and medical and psychological evaluations. Recruitment cycles open periodically — subscribe to alerts on the careers page.