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If you enjoy serving your community and helping others, consider becoming a Raleigh firefighter! The Raleigh Fire Department offers job stability and a competitive benefit package. No previous fire experience is required.
Applications for the next Fire Academy will open in January 2025.
Eligibility Requirements
Candidates are required to meet the rigorous physical and mental demands of the job. Firefighters must be able to think and act quickly as well as perform competently in complex, dangerous, and dynamic emergencies.
Candidates must:
- be 18 years old when applying;
- have a high school diploma or equivalent (proof required);
- have corrected vision of at least 20/30 in both eyes;
- have an operational telephone; and
- have a valid driver’s license.
Application Process
Steps for the application process are described in detail below.
All applicants must go to the NEOGOV website and create a governmentjobs.com account. If you already have a GovernmentJobs.com account, sign in with your username and password, select the job title and then apply. All sections of the application must be completed, including supplemental questionnaire and necessary documents attached. If a question does not apply to you, indicate with NA. Questions marked with an asterisk (*) are required.
For support related to the online application process please call 855-524-5627 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Complete and Pass a Written Aptitude Test
Applicants must pass the Candidate Written Aptitude Test. The written test is based on a standardized aptitude test. Prior fire service experience is not necessary.
All qualified applicants are eligible to take the written exam. Once the test is completed, applicants will be notified via an email from NEOGOV with their results. Those that have passed will be eligible to take the Physical Agility Test. Please do not contact Keeter Training Center for your results, the results will be emailed to you.
No retest will be administered and no scheduling adjustments can be arranged.
Pass the Physical Agility Test
In order to be considered for selection, firefighter applicants must pass the Physical Agility Test (PAT).
Applicants are advised to prepare for the agility test for purposes of safety as well as to enhance their chance for a higher score. With adequate preparation, the average healthy, fit individual should be able to complete the test safely and satisfactorily. During testing, all procedures will be explained in detail and demonstrated if necessary. Learn more about the Physical Agility Test including videos showing all parts of the agility test.
Pass the Oral Interview
Pass the Contingent Offer Phase
Firefight applicants who receive contingent job offers will must pass a:
- criminal background check,
- driving background check,
- controlled substance test,
- medical exam; and,
- psychological evaluation.
Final job offers will be contingent on candidates passing all steps.
Receive and Accept Offer of Employment
Candidates who receive job offers will be notified in time to give proper notice to their current employer. All other applicants will be notified of their status after all recruitment steps are complete.
Raleigh Fire Academies will begin in January and June.
Complete Training Academy and Probationary Period
Soon after firefighter selections are made, new recruits begin an extensive training program at the City's Keeter Fire Training Center that includes both EMS and Fire training.
The Fire Academy includes an extensive EMS program, a rigorous physical fitness program, and a multitude of live firefighting simulations. In order to complete the academy, each candidate must maintain an overall average score of 70% in the classroom. If a recruit does not maintain an average score of 70% or greater, they are subject to termination. Learn more about the Fire Academy.
