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Firefighter Recruit Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

$65/hr

Firefighter Recruit Pay Range: $55,057.60 - $58,302.40 Starting salary - Minimum of the Pay Range Firefighter I Pay Range: $57,803.20 - $90,084.80 Starting salary - Minimum of the Pay Range Job ...

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INVITATION ONLY RECRUITMENT ENTRY-LEVEL & EXPERIENCED FIREFIGHTER RECRUIT FOR SPRING 2027-1 ACADEMY Firefighter Recruit Wage $72,074 APPLICATION DUE 8/28/2026 11:59 p.m. MST This is an invitation ...

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Firefighter Recruit information

See Colorado salary details

$30K

$62.7K

$105.2K

How much do firefighter recruit jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for firefighter recruit in Colorado is $62,677.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,800.00 and $72,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a firefighter recruit?

Firefighter Recruits are individuals who are undergoing training to become fully qualified firefighters. They participate in rigorous educational and physical programs designed to teach them firefighting techniques, emergency medical procedures, and safety protocols. During this period, recruits learn how to operate firefighting equipment, respond to emergencies, and work as part of a team. Upon successful completion of the recruit training, they are typically promoted to probationary firefighters and begin working in the field under supervision.

What are some common challenges faced by firefighter recruits during their initial training period?

Firefighter recruits often encounter physical and mental challenges during their initial training, including rigorous fitness requirements, learning technical skills, and adapting to a paramilitary team environment. Recruits must quickly develop proficiency in using firefighting equipment, following safety protocols, and working effectively under pressure. Building strong communication and teamwork skills is essential, as recruits regularly collaborate with peers and seasoned firefighters to complete tasks and simulations. Overcoming these challenges requires resilience, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to continuous self-improvement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a firefighter recruit, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Firefighter Recruit, you need physical fitness, basic emergency medical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with firefighting equipment, emergency response systems, and CPR/EMT certifications are commonly expected. Teamwork, resilience under pressure, and strong communication help individuals excel in high-stress, life-threatening situations. These skills ensure effective emergency response, personal safety, and public trust during critical incidents.

What is the difference between Firefighter Recruit vs Firefighter?

AspectFirefighter RecruitFirefighter
Required CertificationsCPR, EMT, Firefighter I & II certificationsSame certifications, plus additional training and experience
Work EnvironmentTraining academy, probation period, supervised fire stationsFull-duty fire stations, emergency response, community engagement
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning firefighting skills, assisting in drills, basic emergency responseResponding to fires, rescues, medical emergencies, community safety

The main difference between a Firefighter Recruit and a Firefighter is that the recruit is in training and gaining necessary certifications, while a Firefighter has completed training and actively responds to emergencies. The recruit stage focuses on learning and observation, whereas the Firefighter role involves full operational duties.

What are popular job titles related to Firefighter Recruit jobs in Colorado?

For Firefighter Recruit jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Firefighter Recruit jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Firefighter Recruit jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Firefighter Recruit jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Firefighter Recruit job openings:

Infographic showing various Firefighter Recruit job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,677 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

Firefighter Recruit / Certified Firefighter

City of Virginia Beach

$65/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Key responsibilities

  • Participate in the multi-step hiring process including online application, written test, CPAT, personal history questionnaire, reference checks, structured oral interview, physical and psych evaluations, and background checks.

  • Attend a condensed 10-week certified fire academy if selected for the certified firefighter track.

  • Ensure possession of required certifications such as Firefighter I & II, FEMA/ICS courses, EVOC, CPR, Hazmat Operations, and Virginia EMT or Nationally Registered EMT.


City Of Virginia Beach rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

486th of 855 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Posting End Date:

Department:

FIRE

Compensation Grade:

Y21

Compensation Range & Starting Salary:

Firefighter Recruit Pay Range: $55,057.60 - $58,302.40
Starting salary - Minimum of the Pay Range
Firefighter I Pay Range: $57,803.20 - $90,084.80
Starting salary - Minimum of the Pay Range

Job Exempt (If No, Position is eligible for overtime):

No

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

About Us:

Recognized as one of America's Best-In-State Employers for 2024, the City of Virginia Beach is proud to offer a diverse and dynamic work environment. Our workforce plays a crucial role in delivering exceptional government services to both our citizens and fellow City employees. Apply now to join an organization where you truly make a difference.

Job Duties and Preferred Qualifications:

The City of Virginia Beach is hiring Firefighters. This posting is for bothFirefighter Recruitapplicants andCertified Firefighterapplicants interested in being considered for an April 2027 fire academy.

Required Certifications for Certified Firefighter:

  • Firefighter I & Firefighter II (IFSAC or ProBoard)
  • FEMA/ICS - 100, 200, 700, 800
  • Emergency Vehicle Operator's Course (EVOC)
  • CPR
  • Hazmat Operations
  • Virginia EMT or Nationally Registered (ALS Preferred) [NOTE: We will not accept another state's EMT certificate, you must possess either a Virginia EMT or be Nationally Registered.]

The hiring process for both takes approximately 6-months long and involves a multi-step process which includes the following:

  • Online Application
  • Written Test
  • Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)
  • Personal History Questionnaire (PHQ) & Reference Checks
  • Structured Oral Interviews (SOI)
  • Pre-Assessment Physicals & Psych Evaluations
  • Background Checks
  • Final Offers

Towards the end of the hiring process, VBFD Training Staff will check certifications to ensure reciprocity and interest for a Certified Firefighter academy. If there is enough interest, then those that are selected will be pulled into a condensed 10-week certified academy. If there are not enough candidates,

NOTE: All dates are subject to change.

Written Test

The Virginia Beach Fire Department offers full testing services for the position of Firefighter Recruit through National Testing Network (NTN). To register with NTN and schedule a test, go to www.nationaltestingnetwork.com, select 'Find Jobs', then select Firefighter Jobs and sign up for Virginia Beach Fire Department.

When you visit thewww.nationaltestingnetwork.comwebsite:

  • Complete the NTN registration process and schedule your test.
  • Review all information related to the Virginia Beach Fire Department Firefighter or Firefighter Recruit position, including minimum requirements, salary, and benefits.
  • Review detailed information about the testing process.
  • Review the Frequently Asked Questions and take an online practice test (if desired).
  • Candidates completing the written assessment via remote proctoring will be responsible for paying a one-time $65 fee at the time of registration. If the candidate is already registered with the NTN and has taken a test, then there is only $15 transfer fee to send your score to our department.

The VBFD will be offering in-person written testing on November 7, 2026. Candidates that plan to test in-person with our department will be able to test free of charge. For those interested in testing in-person, please be sure to sign up as soon as possible. Test slots will be extremely limited, and will be filled on a first come, first serve basis. Candidates must have submitted an application in order to test with our department. If you have signed up for an in-person written test session but have not applied, your appointment will be cancelled. Sign ups for in-person testing will close two (2) days prior to testing.

All other candidates will have to take the written test remotely and pay a one-time $65 fee at time of registration OR a $15 transfer fee to transfer your score to our department. For candidates unable to pay the one-time $65 fee will need to fill out the Voucher Request and be able to demonstrate financial hardship through a brief written statement and limited documentation. Vouchers must be received by no later than 5 days prior to the last day of testing.We will be accepting written test results until November 8, 2026.

Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)

Please review the CPAT Resources posted on theVirginia Beach Fire Department websitefor further information. Candidates can sign-up for a day/time that works best for their schedule.

The VBFD will accept valid CPAT cards issued by IAFF-licensed agencies within the preceding 12-months from the end of VBFD CPAT Testing (November 13, 2025 - November 13, 2026).

Structured Oral Interviews (SOIs)

Candidates that successfully complete the written test and CPAT will be invited to complete the Structured Oral Interview (SOI). Interviews are set to take place November 30, 2026 - December 4, 2026.

Candidates that score highly on the SOI will move forward and will receive a conditional offer. Final offers are contingent on successful completion of all post-offer assessments.

Additional requirements:
DMV Transcript: Yes
CDL: No
Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse: No
CPS Check: Yes
Physical: Yes
Respirator: Yes
Psychological Screening: Yes
Polygraph: No
At Will: No

Minimum Requirements:

Minimum Qualifications: Requires high school or GED or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Requires a passing score on department's written examination and vision test. Requires a passing time on the physical agility test. Requires a polygraph test evaluating personal employment history, criminal history, drug use, and other job-related background disqualifiers. Must be classified as fit for employment by the Occupational Health Office and able to pass the Department's annual physical assessment test. Must refrain from using all tobacco products on and off the job. Must have a current and valid driver's license.Special Requirements: All employees may be expected to work hours in excess of their normally scheduled hours in response to short-term department needs and/or City-wide emergencies. This position may require that incumbents wear and maintain appropriate personal protective equipment such as, but not limited to, steel toed shoes, safety glasses, gloves, or other designated safety attire and equipment in designated areas of risk. Specific requirements will be determined and communicated by the employee's supervisor based on position assigned. This is a safety sensitive position and is subject to random drug testing. Positive drug test results may result in counseling and/or discipline, up to and including, termination.

Skills:

Working Conditions:

Per HR Policy 6.19, Americans with Disabilities, the City follows the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in all hiring and employment decisions. The City shall not discriminate on the basis of disability in its hiring and employment practices. The City shall make reasonable accommodations for the known physical or mental limitations of a qualified applicant or employee with a disability upon request unless the accommodation would cause an undue hardship on the operation of the City's business.
The Working Conditions Summary is intended to provide a general overview of the environmental conditions inherent in the job setting, as well as the physical, mental, and sensory requirements necessary to perform the essential functions of the position in the noted job profile. Please copy and paste the URL below into your web browser to view the Working Conditions Summary for this position.
https://workingcondition-summary-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/P2572.pdf

Official Job Descriptions:

To browse official job descriptions, please access this link - https://virginiabeach.gov/careers/job-descriptions-pay-plans?search=&group=E

VRS Contribution: All full-time employees are required to contribute 5% of annual salary toward their retirement account; in accordance with VRS retirement provisions. This will be handled through a pre-tax payroll deduction.

Drug Free Workplace: The City of Virginia Beach maintains a drug free workplace.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement: The City of Virginia Beach is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive work environment. We do not discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status as defined by applicable law.


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