ENTRY-LEVEL Firefighter & Firefighter/Paramedic

Entry-Level Firefighter & Firefighter/Paramedic

The 2026 Monthly Base Salary For Firefighter/EMT - 5th Class Is $7,765. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certification Is Not Required To Apply.

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

Paramedic Requirements

• Current (unexpired) National Registry EMT-P and/or Washington State Paramedic certification(s) OR
• Successful completion of a fully accredited Paramedic program and passing the National Registry examinations

If currently in Paramedic school you may apply now. You will be required to provide documentation of National Registry EMT-P or Washington State Paramedic certification by no later than December 4.

Training

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

Benefits

WPFR provides a generous benefits package and opportunity for a variety of pay incentives. Please see the Benefits tab for more information.

Conditions of Employment

• Criminal history background investigation
• Driving abstract review
• Medical exam with drug screening
• Psychological/suitability assessment
• Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)

Job Duties

The position shall have the demonstrated ability and/or skill to effectively:

• Avoid quick and reasonable courses of action during emergency operations with due regard to surrounding hazards, circumstances and safety.
• Perform as a pump operator and/or ladder company operator.
• Perform emergency medical services within the scope of their certification level - EMT or Paramedic.
• Carry out general and special assignments in a timely manner that fulfills the mission and needs of the district.
• Communicate using the English language, both orally and in writing.
• Work with the general public, co-workers, and related agencies.
• Operate various electronic/digital multimedia equipment and a personal computer with various software applications connected to a networked system.

Physical Abilities

• Maintain good physical conditioning and have the ability to carry out physically demanding tasks under dangerous and stressful conditions.
• Move about an emergency scene unencumbered.
• Withstand and work in extreme heat, fire, dusty/smoky conditions, and toxic materials when participating as an active member of the IMS team at the scene of an emergency incident.
• Possess acceptable auditory and visual senses to meet the requirements of the job.
• Meet all of the above demands while wearing a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

Application and Examination

• Required Application Documents: GovernmentJobs online application in its entirety, cover letter (maximum one page), resume (maximum of two pages), and other* may be utilized for Paramedic certification (if applicable), Veteran documentation, and/or letters of recommendation (optional, to a maximum of three).
• Online application period: Monday, June 22 to Sunday, July 26
• Online examination: Accessible from 12:00 AM to 11:59 PM on Friday, August 7 OR Saturday, August 8
• Exam results: By August 17
• Minimum passing score: 80%
• Email notifications will advise of pass/fail status only, numerical scores are not provided.
• Candidates achieving a passing score will be randomized and invited to the next phase.
• Introductory Interviews: Phone mini interviews conducted in the week of August 24
• Oral Board Interviews: Conducted in-person at Station 31. We may consider remote or phone interviews for candidates residing out of the area.
• Certification of Hiring List & Conditional Offers: All candidates will be notified of results via email. Conditional offers will occur via phone and email.
• Hire Date: January 4, 2027
• Red Knights Fire Academy begins: January 11