Firefighter Academy

About the role

The City of Wilmington is seeking qualified candidates for its upcoming Firefighter Academy starting on November 2, 2026. Important information is provided throughout this posting. Questions not addressed here should be directed to Heather.Miller@wilmingtonnc.gov.

Responsibilities

• Develops qualifications for Firefighter position; receives training and instruction in firefighting, rescue techniques, emergency medical procedures, medical lifesaving, handling of hazardous materials and fire life safety education.
• Attends classes; completes physical training; gains knowledge of equipment and equipment operations, rescue materials and supplies.
• Observes professional firefighter duties in the performance of firefighting and the provision of emergency medical services; attends emergency events, and gains knowledge of related duties.
• Gains knowledge of department standards, policies, and procedures.
• Performs other duties of a similar nature as assigned.

• Maintains readiness to respond to emergency and non-emergency requests for assistance and for the protection of life and property;
• Participates in continuous professional development, participates in required education, crew-based training, and physical fitness.
• Responds to emergency situations and provides fire suppression, fire prevention and emergency medical assistance; assesses situations and establishes action priorities; selects and deploys appropriate equipment and medical interventions.
• Assists in mitigating release of hazardous materials and responding to related incidents.
• Drives, operates, maintains, and spots fire apparatus.
• Maintains equipment and facilities and ensures operational readiness for emergency and non-emergency response; performs general facility maintenance and cleaning, yardwork, and upkeep; inspects, identifies, repairs and/or requests equipment maintenance to meet operational standards.
• Performs inspection and maintenance on fire hydrants in accordance with Fire/Emergency Management Department policy.
• Performs operational and administrative duties to prepare and complete training/activity record reports, conducts pre-incident surveys, identifies hazards and potential threats, and documents findings.
• Provides tours of facilities and demonstrates fire equipment; participates in community education on fire and life safety and related topics to children and adults.
• Follows all policies and procedures of the City of Wilmington, Fire/Emergency Management.
• Provides support to other agencies.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old before November 2, 2026.
• Minimum of H.S. Diploma or GED before October 8, 2026.
• Valid/active US driver's license before October 8, 2026.
• Passing College English or CASAS results before October 8, 2026.
• Pass the WFD JPAT/ Physical Fitness Test within the last year - CPAT is not accepted.

Our Core Values

Inclusion | Collaboration | Creativity | Accountability

Our Mission Statement

Through forward-thinking policies and responsible stewardship, we are creating a better city every day with excellent core services and quality of life for all.

What We Offer

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance + many other insurance options.
• Adequate retirement benefits, including a city provided 4.5% contribution each pay period into a 401(k) account and automatic enrollment into the North Carolina Local Government Employees’ Retirement System.
• Employer-paid health & wellness clinic.
• Free on-site city gym access.
• Paid sick and vacation leave + 13 paid holidays per year.
• 6-weeks paid parental leave.
• Paid volunteer & blood donation leave to give back to our community.
• Flex schedule and telework availability, depending on your position.
• Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives.
• Tuition assistance benefits.

Benefits

• Health Insurance - The City offers two options for health coverage: a standard PPO plan and a High Deductible Health Plan with an associated Health Savings Account.
• Coverage becomes effective the first day of the month following 30 days of employment for employees.