Fire Department · Career
Arvada Fire Protection District
Arvada, CO · Jefferson County
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Department careers page ↗Arvada Fire Protection District has protected the greater Arvada area since 1949, growing into a full-service district of more than 250 employees operating 11 active stations. It covers approximately 60 square miles, including the City of Arvada, the northern portion of Wheat Ridge, the Fairmount community, and parts of unincorporated Jefferson County.
The district serves about 145,000 residents and carries a Class 1 ISO Public Protection Classification. It is internationally accredited by the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI)—one of only about seven Colorado agencies (and roughly 125 nationally) to hold both accreditation and an ISO Class 1 rating.
Beyond fire suppression and emergency medical services, Arvada Fire fields specialty capabilities in hazardous materials, technical rescue, water and ice rescue, and wildland response. Its stated values are dedication, integrity, compassion, courage, and respect.
MissionPreserve life, property, and the environment.
Arvada Fire hires firefighters who already hold Colorado EMT or Paramedic certification and requires candidates to complete the NTN FireTeam test. Recruitment runs in defined application windows, and openings—typically posted separately for EMT and Paramedic tracks—fill on a first-come basis (the first 100 applications are accepted).
The process moves from application review through an Assessment Center (EMS skills assessment, peer interview, and Physical Ability Test), a Chiefs Panel interview, and finally an employment offer. Applications are submitted through the district's online hiring portal.
Requirements
- At least 18 years of age
- High School Diploma or GED
- State of Colorado EMT certification, OR State of Colorado or National Registry Paramedic certification
- NTN FireTeam test
- Valid driver's license with a safe driving record
- Must pass pre-employment background check, criminal history review, medical evaluation (NFPA 1582), psychological screening, MVR review, and drug screen
Hiring process
- Application review (first 100 applications accepted)
- Assessment Center: EMS Skills Assessment, Peer Interview, and Physical Ability Test (PAT)
- Chiefs Panel interview
- Employment offer
Benefits
Employer-provided medical, dental, and vision insurance; paid holidays, vacation, and sick time; Defined Benefit and 457 retirement plans with employer match; life and disability insurance; professional development; and an Employee Assistance Program. Longevity pay begins after five years of service.
What certifications do I need to apply?
Applicants must hold a State of Colorado EMT certification, or a State of Colorado or National Registry Paramedic certification, and must complete the NTN FireTeam test.
What are the minimum requirements?
You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, hold the required EMT or Paramedic certification, complete the NTN FireTeam test, and have a valid driver's license with a safe driving record.
What does the firefighter job pay?
For 2026, Firefighter/EMT starts at about $80,330 in Year 1 and rises to about $114,757 by Year 4. Firefighter/Paramedic starts at about $88,363 and rises to about $122,790 by Year 4, with longevity pay after five years.
What is the work schedule?
Arvada Fire works a 48/96 shift schedule: two consecutive 24-hour shifts on duty followed by four days off.
How does the hiring process work?
After application review (the first 100 applications are accepted), candidates go through an Assessment Center with an EMS skills assessment, peer interview, and Physical Ability Test, then a Chiefs Panel interview, and finally an employment offer.
How do I apply?
Applications are submitted online through the district's hiring portal, accessible from the Join Our Team page. Recruitment runs in defined application windows for EMT and Paramedic positions.