Fire Department

Careers

Is Firefighting for you?

The Fire Services is one of the most personally rewarding and challenging careers an individual can have.  As a firefighter, every day you work, you will continuously be of service to people. Whether it is rescuing people from a burning building, extinguishing fires, rescuing crash victims, saving people from raging water, providing emergency medical care, or neutralizing a hazardous-material spill, this profession is all about helping others. 

When you become a firefighter, you become part of a large united ‘fire family’.  The firefighters you will work with become as close to you as your own family.  There are not many jobs as rewarding as a firefighter.  The camaraderie, the helping of others, the pride in what you do and just overall good feelings about yourself all combine to make this a great career choice.

The pursuit of becoming a firefighter will be successful only if you truly want it.  This is not a career choice that you sort of want.  You have to need it like needing oxygen.  The competition is tough but those who are prepared to put their heart and soul into the process are the ones who come out on top.

Questions? Email JoinDFD@duluthmn.gov

What Steps Need to be Completed to Become a Firefighter?

You will be tested in the following categories:

  • Math
  • Science 
  • Reading Comprehension

A nationally standardized physical ability test performing eight different fire service job related tasks consecutively while wearing a 50 lb. vest to simulate fire clothing and equipment.

  1. Stair climb (climbing stairs while carrying an additional 25 lb simulated hose pack)
  2. Ladder Raise and Extension (placing a ground ladder at the fire scene and extending the ladder to the roof or a window)
  3. Hose Drag (stretching uncharged hoselines, advancing lines)
  4. Equipment Carry (removing and carrying equipment from fire apparatus to fireground)
  5. Forcible Entry (penetrating a locked door, breaching a wall)
  6. Search (crawling through dark unpredictable areas to search for victims)
  7. Rescue Drag (removing victim or partner from a fire building)
  8. Ceiling Pull (locating fire and checking for fire extension)

CPAT Test

Be prepared to explain your personal training and educational background. 

Requirements

Minimum

High School Diploma or GED

Firefighter I & II Certification and Emergency Medical Technician   (both may be obtained through a technical or community college)

Additional
  • Gain experience by working on an area volunteer fire department and/or ambulance service
  • Maintain a high level of physical fitness
  • Volunteer in your community (example:  youth center, Habitat for Humanity)
  • Be prepared for a background check.  Keep yourself out of trouble!
  • Obtain a two-year degree in fire service.

View Job Openings

Contact

Fire Department
Business: 218-730-4394
Stations: 218-730-4400
Life Safety: 218-730-4380
Fire Marshal: 218-730-4398
Related Links

CPAT Test