Applications are now open for both entry-level and fully certified firefighter positions with the Fayetteville Fire Department (FFD). Applicants can apply online at FayettevilleNC.gov/Jobs. Applications are open until Sept. 25.

Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications will take part in several assessments to proceed through the selection process. Assessments include a written exam (no fire experience required), a physical ability test and panel interviews.  

Entry level candidates selected for the FFD will attend a six-month fire and EMS training academy at the Fayetteville Technical Community College Fire and Rescue Training Center, a 24,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility.  

Lateral entry programs are available for current, full-time firefighters who meet certain requirements and may be eligible for elevated pay grades upon hire. 

 “Joining the Fayetteville Fire Department is an opportunity to build a meaningful career while serving the community,” Recruitment Captain Stephen Shakeshaft said in a press release. “We’re looking for people who want to be part of a team, support one another and make a difference for Fayetteville residents every day.”

Benefits of working with the Fayetteville Fire Department include: 

• Starting salary range of $45,000 to $52,310 d.o.e. 
• Fully paid Fire Training Academy for inexperienced candidates
• Abbreviated academy for lateral-entry and fully certified candidates
• Educational incentive pay for Firefighters who pursue associate’s or bachelor's degrees 
• Regional Fire Training Facility for continued education and professional development
• A defined career development plan allowing firefighters to pursue specialty training in hazardous materials, urban search and rescue, fire investigation or community risk reduction. Each track provides step-plan pay increases for time in service and training. 
• Multiple specialty programs and divisions including drone operations, strategic planning and emergency preparedness, logistics, and many more.

The city has also taken proactive measures to protect the health and well-being of its firefighters by implement cancer screening as part of its annual physical examinations. “The One Test,” a state-of-the-art blood test that checks for a panel of protein biomarkers potentially indicating early-stage cancer. 

In addition to providing cancer screenings, FFD houses three crisis response dogs trained to help reduce stress and anxiety at fire stations and emergency scenes. The dogs support first responders by helping them decompress after difficult calls, ease tension, lower anxiety and reduce the long-term effects of post-traumatic stress while supporting overall heart health.

The FFD is one of only 127 agencies worldwide to be both accredited with the Commission on Fire Accreditation International and receive an Insurance Services Organization protection classification of Class 1, the best available rating. 

Interested individuals should visit FayettevilleNC.gov/Fire, contact Recruitment Captain Stephen Shakeshaft at (910) 676-1716 or stephenshakeshaft@fayettevillenc.gov for more information.