FIREFIGHTER RECRUIT (Full Time)
Summary Position Description:
Firefighters provide skilled emergency, medical pre hospital, and non-emergency services in a variety of areas including fire suppression, medical pre-hospital assistance, public education, and information. Firefighters are assigned to work a 24-hour shift, or other assigned shift, responding as needed during that shift. During the first six years a VBFD Firefighter will be assigned to work a 56-hour work week. Other Fire assignments may include a 40-hour work week in an administrative or training position.
Minimum Requirements:
Age 18 (by time of written test)
High School Diploma or GED (at time of job offer)
Valid U.S. driver's license (at time of application)
Eligible to work in the United States (at time of application)
As a condition of employment, all VBFD Firefighter Recruit employees must sign an agreement stating they will not use tobacco products either on or off duty. Firefighters must maintain an acceptable level of physical fitness and maintain driving privileges throughout their employment with the Virginia Beach Fire Department.
$43,264 Annual Salary During Fire Academy
Firefighter Recruits receive an annual salary while attending the 6-month academy.
$45,448 Upon Academy Graduation
Upon graduation from the academy, Firefighter Recruits become probationary firefighters and receive a 5% increase to $45,448. After completing the probation period, firefighters are eligible for approved overtime opportunities.
OTHER OPPORTUNITIES FOR PAY INCREASES
$55,369 Annual Salary for Master Firefighter
After six years, firefighters may participate in a comprehensive training program to become eligible for career progression to Master Firefighter and a 10% salary increase.
Further Career Advancement
Below is a chart that shows the Fire Department’s rank structure and corresponding salary ranges as of June 24, 2020:
Salary Chart
Position Title | Minimum Salary | Maximum Salary |
Firefighter Recruit | $43,264
| N/A |
Firefighter | $45,448
| $66,601
|
Firefighter Medic* | $50,148
| $73,507 |
Master Firefighter | $52,707
| $77,230 |
Master Firefighter Medic** | $55,369
| $81,140 |
Captain | $61,131
| $89,564 |
Battalion Chief | $67,454
| $102,273 |
District Chief | $78,228
| $118,601 |
*Medic positions are not required for career progression or promotion
Employee Benefits
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