ENTRY-LEVEL Firefighter & Firefighter​/Paramedic

Overview

West Pierce Fire & Rescue (WPFR) anticipates hiring up to 26 positions, to begin employment in January 2027. Please see the ENTRY-LEVEL Firefighter & Firefighter/Paramedic FAQ on our Career Resources webpage for more information. The FAQ and supplemental information detail application requirements. Failure to submit an online application, with the required attachments, will result in removal from the testing process.

Responsibilities

The Firefighter is a uniformed, LEOFF position performing emergency and non-emergency duties with the authority to direct and/or perform fire protection activities. Activities include fire suppression, driving fire apparatus, pump and ladder operations, emergency medical services, training drills, inspections, public education, and maintenance of fire equipment and high value apparatus. Firefighters may be assigned to any division of WPFR and may be provisionally appointed to a Captain position.

Typical duties include responding to fire incidents and other emergencies, operating equipment and vehicles, providing medical treatment and transportation within certification scope, participating in training, planning, inspections, and public education, maintaining records, and communicating with a diverse community. The position requires the ability to operate under IMS guidelines and to work within a contractual shift schedule.

Minimum Qualifications

• At least 18 years of age
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid drivers license allowing legal driving in the State of Washington

Paramedic Requirements (For Firefighter/Paramedic 5th Class)

• Current (unexpired) National Registry EMT-P and/or Washington State Paramedic certification OR
• Successful completion of a fully accredited Paramedic program and passing the National Registry examinations
• If currently in Paramedic school, you may apply now. Documentation of National Registry EMT-P or Washington State Paramedic certification is required by December 4.

All entry-level recruits will complete the Red Knights Fire Academy. The FAQs provide detailed information on the training provided.

Benefits and Pay

WPFR provides a generous benefits package and opportunities for pay incentives. See Benefits tab for more information. In addition, there are pay incentives (as an addition to base monthly salary) for certain qualifications and certifications. Examples include language proficiency bonuses and certifications in Technical Rescue, Water Rescue, Hazardous Materials and Marine programs, subject to contractual procedures and WPFR policies.

Firefighters are members of Washington States LEOFF Plan 2 retirement system. WPFR pays 100% of premiums for medical, vision, and dental insurance for employees and eligible dependents. After hire, WPFR provides an annual HRA contribution and a deferred compensation plan matching starting in 2027 as applicable.

Conditions of Employment

• Conditional offers are based on successful completion of background investigations, driving record, medical exam with drug screening, psychological/suitability assessment, and CPAT.
• Paramedic candidates must provide certification documentation by December 4.

Application Process and Timeline

This timeline is subject to change. Primary communication is via email. Specific dates include:

• Online application period:

June 22 – July 26 (2026). Applications may close early if 1,000 applications are received.

• Required application documents:

Government Jobs online application, cover letter, resume, and other documents as applicable (e.g., paramedic certification, veteran documentation, letters of recommendation). If no applicable documents, attach a blank page.

• Failure to submit an online application with the required attachments will result in removal from the testing process.
• Online examination:

August 7 or August 8 (candidates must be available for either date). Minimum passing score is 80%.

• Introductory interviews:

Week of August 24 (phone interviews).

• Oral Board Interviews:

September 14–25 (in-person at Station 31; remote/phone options possible for distant candidates).

• Certification of Hiring List & Conditional Offers:

By October 1.

• Deadline to complete employment conditions:

December

4. Paramedic documentation deadline also applies.

• Hire Date:

January 2027;

Red Knights Fire Academy begins January 11, 2027.

Notes

The following overview is from the IAFF Local 1488 collective bargaining agreement (2025–2028). Pay incentives and benefits described are subject to contractual procedures and WPFR policies.

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