Fire Department

Careers

Is Firefighting for you?

The Fire Service is one of life's most challenging yet rewarding career fields. Each shift, firefighters come to work with a good attitude to help and serve others. Whether it is rescuing people from a burning building, extinguishing fires, conducting fire investigations, rescuing crash victims, saving people from fast-moving water, rope rescue, participating in public fire education, or neutralizing a hazardous-materials spill, this profession will challenge you, yet give you a life-long sense of accomplishment and being part of a team.

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)

Interview Tips
  • 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.
  • Obtain a two-year degree in fire service.

What we offer

  • Dynamic co-workers
  • Team-oriented environment
  • Exciting work life
  • Excellent benefits
    • Education and fitness reimbursement
    • Medical, dental, life insurance, PERA pension plan and more
  • Competitive wages
    • Starting pay of $58,356 annually
    • Overtime pay is 1.5x
  • Opportunity for advancement

Interested in working with us? Apply today!