Firefighter

About the role

The Tacoma Fire Department (TFD) is currently seeking candidates interested in serving our community as firefighters and emergency medical technicians (EMTs). TFD protects a service area of 71 square miles (Tacoma, Fife, Fircrest and associated waterways) with a population of more than 200,000. The department also services the Port of Tacoma, one of the largest container ports in North America, covering over 2,400 acres. TFD has 17 active fire stations distributed throughout our response area. Our front-line uniform personnel staff operates 17 engine companies, four ladders, five medic units, three command vehicles, and four full-time BLS transport units. Uniformed personnel also cross-staff a fireboat, hazardous material unit and technical rescue vehicle. The majority of the uniformed force is engaged in fire suppression and emergency medical service delivery.

Responsibilities

• Combat, extinguish, and prevent fires
• Provide emergency medical services
• Maintain fire department equipment, apparatus and quarters
• Prepare and maintain a variety of records and electronic reports
• Interact with the public in a positive way

Requirements

• Graduation from high school or equivalent and a minimum of 18 years of age
• Valid Washington State Driver’s License at time of appointment with maintenance thereafter
• Valid Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) certification completed within the six months prior to hire
• Certification as an Emergency Medical Technician by completion of Firefighter Recruit Academy EMT Training with maintenance thereafter
• Meet minimum medical standards (NFPA 1582) adopted by the Association of Washington Cities and the Washington State Association of Fire Chiefs, including being a non-smoker for at least two years and having normal lung function

Selection Process

• Applications accepted until Friday, November 13, 2026, 5:00 p.m.
• Applicants eligible for veterans scoring criteria must attach a DD-214 member copy 4 at time of application
• Minimum qualifications review
• In-person written examination tentatively scheduled for December 15 or 16, 2026 (no alternative dates)
• Passing the written examination places applicants on the eligible list for further hiring consideration
• Eligible candidates submit a personal history questionnaire (PHQ) and may be selected for oral board interviews
• Conditional offer requires passing a background check, pre-employment medical examination, drug screening, and providing CPAT certification
• New employees complete a one-year probationary period prior to obtaining permanent status

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for eligible employees, spouses/domestic partners, and eligible dependents, including children up to age 26
• Deferred compensation allowing tax-deferred savings under Section 457 of the IRS Code
• Vacation and sick leave
• Paid holidays
• Excellent retirement plan

Pay

• Hourly: $36.19 – $50.14
• Annual Salary: $86,754.67 – $120,195.61
• Salary based on 92.2 hour pay periods