Firefighter Recruit / Certified Firefighter

Firefighter PositionThe City of Virginia Beach is hiring Firefighters. This posting is for both Firefighter Recruit applicants and Certified Firefighter applicants interested in being considered for an April 2027 fire academy.Recognized as one of America's Best-In-State Employers for 2024, the City of Virginia Beach is proud to offer a diverse and dynamic work environment. Our workforce plays a crucial role in delivering exceptional government services to both our citizens and fellow City employees. Apply now to join an organization where you truly make a difference.Job Duties and Preferred QualificationsRequired Certifications for Certified Firefighter:Firefighter I & Firefighter II (IFSAC or ProBoard)FEMA/ICS – 100, 200, 700, 800Emergency Vehicle Operator's Course (EVOC)CPRHazmat OperationsVirginia EMT or Nationally Registered (ALS Preferred) (NOTE: We will not accept another state's EMT certificate, you must possess either a Virginia EMT or be Nationally Registered.)The hiring process for both takes approximately 6-months long and involves a multi-step process which includes the following:Online ApplicationWritten TestCandidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)Personal History Questionnaire (PHQ) & Reference ChecksStructured Oral Interviews (SOI)Pre-Assessment Physicals & Psych EvaluationsBackground ChecksFinal OffersTowards the end of the hiring process, VBFD Training Staff will check certifications to ensure reciprocity and interest for a Certified Firefighter academy. If there is enough interest, then those that are selected will be pulled into a condensed 10-week certified academy. If there are not enough candidates, all dates are subject to change.Minimum Requirements:Minimum Qualifications: Requires high school or GED or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Requires a passing score on department's written examination and vision test. Requires a passing time on the physical agility test. Requires a polygraph test evaluating personal employment history, criminal history, drug use, and other job-related background disqualifiers. Must be classified as fit for employment by the Occupational Health Office and able to pass the Department's annual physical assessment test. Must refrain from using all tobacco products on and off the job. Must have a current and valid driver's license.

Special Requirements: All employees may be expected to work hours in excess of their normally scheduled hours in response to short-term department needs and/or City-wide emergencies. This position may require that incumbents wear and maintain appropriate personal protective equipment such as, but not limited to, steel toed shoes, safety glasses, gloves, or other designated safety attire and equipment in designated areas of risk. Specific requirements will be determined and communicated by the employee's supervisor based on position assigned. This is a safety sensitive position and is subject to random drug testing. Positive drug test results may result in counseling and/or discipline, up to and including, termination.Skills:Working Conditions:Per HR Policy 6.19, Americans with Disabilities, the City follows the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in all hiring and employment decisions. The City shall not discriminate on the basis of disability in its hiring and employment practices.

The City shall make reasonable accommodations for the known physical or mental limitations of a qualified applicant or employee with a disability upon request unless the accommodation would cause an undue hardship on the operation of the City's business. The Working Conditions Summary is intended to provide a general overview of the environmental conditions inherent in the job setting, as well as the physical, mental, and sensory requirements necessary to perform the essential functions of the position in the noted job profile.VRS Contribution: All full-time employees are required to contribute 5% of annual salary toward their retirement account; in accordance with VRS retirement provisions. This will be handled through a pre-tax payroll deduction.Drug Free Workplace: The City of Virginia Beach maintains a drug free workplace.Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement: The City of Virginia Beach is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive work environment. We do not discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status as defined by applicable law.