Firefighter Recruitment
Receive Recruitment NotificationsWelcome!
At Northwest Fire District, we’re on a mission to save lives, protect property, and care for our community. We’re always on the lookout for qualified individuals to join our diverse team of professionals committed to delivering exceptional public safety services.
Join us in making a difference.
WHAT IS IT LIKE TO BE A FIREFIGHTER
FOR NORTHWEST FIRE DISTRICT?
NWFD FIRE ACADEMY
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A PROBATIONARY FIREFIGHTER
RECRUITMENT FAQS
FIREFIGHTER RECRUIT REQUIREMENTS
Firefighter Recruit
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AT THE TIME OF APPLICATION
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- High School Diploma, GED, or higher degree
- Valid Arizona Driver’s License by the start of the Academy
FULL JOB DESCRIPTION
Firefighter Recruit
Preference Points for Veterans are granted to applicants who apply for an entry level (i.e., Firefighter) position and earn a passing score at the end of the testing process.
PREPARE FOR THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS
Make sure you are physically prepared to complete/pass the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT).
The following documents can help you prepare for the CPAT
Prepare for the interviews, which could include both virtual and in-person communication. Our recruitment process does not require that you have any previous firefighting experience, so the interviews will not focus on firefighting-specific topics.
WHAT WE OFFER
Medical, Dental and Vision Plans
Retirement Plan
Holiday Pay
Life and ADD Coverage
Paid Time Off
Promotional Opportunities
Voluntary Deferred Compensation Plan
Tuition Reimbursement
Uniform Allowance
Short Term Disability
EAP Program
Frequently Asked Questions
In the FAQ section below, you will find answers to some of the most common questions we receive about our recruitment process. We continually update this section, so check back often.
When can I submit an application for a firefighter recruit position?
We presently do not have a date for when our recruitment process will begin.
What is the minimum age requirement to apply for a firefighter position?
All applicants must be at least 18 years of age at the time they submit their application.
If I live outside of Arizona, can I still apply for the position of firefighter recruit?
Yes.
What documents do I need to submit with my online application?
You will be required to upload educational documentation as part of the online application. We accept copies of diplomas, GED equivalency documentation, or high school or college transcripts with graduation date.
Do Veterans receive any preference points?
Yes. Preference Points for Veterans are granted to applicants who apply for an entry level (i.e., Firefighter) position and earn a passing score at the end of the testing process.
I am unable to provide a copy of my diploma/degree. What can I provide in its place?
You may submit a copy of your high school or college transcripts indicating that you have graduated with your online application.
I don't currently have an Arizona driver's license. Can I still apply?
Yes. We require a valid driver’s license at the time of application – Valid: means that an individual’s current driver’s license is not revoked, suspended, expired, refused, cancelled, or restricted.
While all valid driver’s licenses are accepted to apply, you must obtain an Arizona driver’s license by the start of the Academy.
Will I be paid during the Fire Academy?
Our 22-week Academy is a full-time commitment at 40 hours per week. The rate of pay while in the Academy is $26.54 per hour. Once graduated, the Firefighter Recruit is promoted to Firefighter and begins to work a 58-hour week shift. At that point, the pay transitions to $18.11 per hour, plus overtime.
I am currently an EMT/Advanced-EMT/Paramedic student. Can I apply?
Answer: Yes.
Does Northwest Fire District provide any type of retirement plan?
Northwest Fire District is a member of the Arizona Public Safety Personnel Retirement System (PSPRS). For more information on this visit http://www.psprs.com/
What does it mean to be a Probationary Firefighter?
The first year of employment as a new firefighter is a probationary period. This can be a stressful experience. The probationary firefighter is expected to learn a large amount of information while demonstrating a strong work ethic. Upon completion of the Fire Academy, the firefighter is assigned to a fire station. Training continues at the station through book work, practical drills, and a significant amount of on-the-job training. During the probationary year, the new firefighter is required to complete a series of predetermined training modules while working their assigned shifts. After completing each module, the probationary firefighter must successfully pass both a written and practical skills test. If the firefighter successfully passes all the required modules, they will become a non-probationary employee.
