Firefighter I (Entry Level)

About This Role

Miami Fire-Rescue is hiring Firefighter I candidates for entry-level positions in one of South Florida's most active fire-rescue agencies. Miami's tropical climate, coastal geography, and dense high-rise development create a distinct emergency services environment where water rescue, hurricane preparedness, and high-rise operations are everyday realities.

Job Overview

• Job Title: Firefighter I (Entry Level)
• Company: Miami Fire-Rescue
• Location: Miami, FL
• 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

Miami Fire-Rescue operates as a fully integrated fire-EMS department; every firefighter is a Florida-certified EMT. The department's proximity to Biscayne Bay means marine rescue training is built into the academy. Recruits complete a 16-week training program and are assigned to one of 14 fire stations operating 24-on/48-off rotations.

Key Responsibilities

• Suppress structural fires in Miami's high-rise residential and commercial towers
• Provide emergency medical services as a Florida-certified EMT
• Conduct water and marine rescue operations in Biscayne Bay and coastal areas
• Respond to hurricane-related emergency incidents during Atlantic storm season
• Perform vehicle extrication and technical rescue under NFPA standards
• Maintain bilingual community outreach in English and Spanish

Requirements & Skills

• Florida residency; must be at least 18 years old
• High school diploma or GED; Florida State Fire College certification preferred
• Florida EMT-Basic certification required at time of hire
• Pass CPAT and Miami Fire-Rescue physical agility test
• Valid Florida driver's license with clean record
• Bilingual English/Spanish ability is a strong asset

Benefits & Work Conditions

• $18–$26/hr with certification pay supplements
• City of Miami General Employees' & Sanitation Employees' Retirement Trust pension
• Health, dental, and vision coverage for employee and family
• 24-on/48-off shift schedule
• Paramedic training sponsorship available after probationary period

Who Should Apply

Florida residents who are fluent in English (Spanish is a major plus), physically fit, and interested in a fire service career shaped by the unique demands of South Florida — marine rescue, high-rise suppression, tropical storm response, and a high EMS call volume in one of the country's most densely populated metros.

About the Company

Miami Fire-Rescue operates 14 fire stations serving the City of Miami's 56 square miles and 470,000 residents. The department handles over 90,000 incidents annually and is known nationally for its marine rescue capabilities, hurricane emergency planning, and bilingual community engagement programs.

How to Apply

Apply at miamigov.com/Fire-Rescue/Careers. Recruitment announcements are posted on the city's HR portal. The process includes a written exam, CPAT, physical agility evaluation, oral board, medical exam, psychological screen, and background investigation.