Entry-Level Firefighter

About This Role

The Denver Fire Department is hiring Entry-Level Firefighters to serve Colorado's capital and largest city. Denver's altitude, dry climate, and proximity to the wildland-urban interface create distinct fire behavior that recruits are trained to handle from their first week in the academy. DFD responds to over 100,000 calls annually from 36 fire stations.

Job Overview

• Job Title: Entry-Level Firefighter
• Company: Denver Fire Department
• Location: Denver, CO
• Job Type: Full-time
• Experience Level: Entry-level
• Salary Range: $20–$29/hr
• Posted Date: 2026-06-01
• Application Deadline: 2026-07-01

Role Context

Denver FD recruits complete a 20-week academy combining NFPA-aligned structural firefighting curriculum with Colorado-specific wildland interface training. Every DFD firefighter is cross-trained as an EMT. The department operates on a 24-on/48-off rotation and has a strong culture of officer development that moves qualified firefighters into leadership roles.

Key Responsibilities

• Suppress residential and commercial structural fires across Denver's diverse neighborhoods
• Respond to wildland and interface fires in Denver's foothills service areas
• Deliver BLS emergency medical services as a Colorado-certified EMT
• Perform vehicle extrication and technical rescue operations
• Conduct haz-mat awareness and operations-level response
• Support community outreach and fire prevention education initiatives

Requirements & Skills

• Colorado residency at time of application; must be 18 years old
• High school diploma or GED required; associate degree or fire science credits preferred
• Pass DFD written exam and physical fitness assessment
• CPAT certification required before academy start
• Valid Colorado driver's license; Class B CDL or ability to obtain within one year
• Clear background investigation and drug-free status

Benefits & Work Conditions

• $20–$29/hr with longevity pay increases
• Colorado Fire and Police Pension Association (FPPA) defined benefit pension
• City and County of Denver health, dental, and vision plans
• 24-on/48-off shift rotation
• Education incentive pay and department-supported paramedic program

Who Should Apply

Coloradans who want to build an emergency services career in a modern, well-resourced department. Denver FD is especially well-suited for candidates interested in wildland-urban interface firefighting, EMS integration, and leadership development over a long career trajectory.

About the Company

Denver Fire Department operates 36 fire stations with nearly 1,100 uniformed personnel. The department serves Colorado's most populous city and responds to a wide range of incidents from high-rise fires downtown to wildfire support operations in the surrounding Front Range.

How to Apply

Apply at denvergov.org. Monitor the DFD Careers page for exam dates. The hiring process includes a written test, physical fitness assessment, CPAT, oral board interview, medical and psychological evaluations, and a thorough background investigation.