Fire Department · Career
Hernando County Fire Rescue
Brooksville, FL · Hernando County
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Department careers page ↗Hernando County Fire Rescue serves Florida's Nature Coast, covering communities including Spring Hill, Brooksville, Hernando Beach, and Ridge Manor. The department is led by a Fire Chief who also serves as Director of Public Safety, with a command structure spanning Operations, EMS, Training, Administration, and Special Operations divisions.
Operations run out of 14 fire stations staffed across three shifts, backed by nine battalion chiefs. Beyond fire suppression, the department provides emergency medical services with patient transport, fire prevention and inspection, community risk reduction, and public education.
The department is entry-level friendly, running its own firefighter trainee pathway that takes candidates with no prior experience through EMT and fire academy training toward a permanent firefighter position.
MissionProtecting life, property, and community safety through emergency response, fire prevention, education, and medical services.
Hernando County Fire Rescue recruits primarily through an entry-level firefighter trainee program, with applications typically opening once a year around the May/June timeframe. Candidates apply online during the recruitment window, submit a one-page essay, complete a physical abilities test, and interview with a selection panel.
Trainees are hired as temporary civilian employees and paid while completing EMT training (one semester) and an 18-week fire academy, with the county covering tuition, fees, uniforms, and protective gear. Upon certification, trainees convert to full firefighter positions with a 12-month probationary period and a 3-year service obligation. Apply through the county's GovernmentJobs portal.
Requirements
- At least 18 years old
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid Florida Driver's License (must remain insurable through the County's insurance carrier)
- Florida Firefighter II Compliance (required within 1 year)
- State of Florida EMT Licensure (required within 1 year)
- Ability to perform moderate physical labor, including lifting up to 80 lbs
- Must pass a background check and physical examination
- Entry level — no prior experience required
Hiring process
- Submit online application during the recruitment period
- Submit a one-page essay (written response)
- Complete the Physical Abilities Test (40 push-ups in 2 minutes, 40 sit-ups in 2 minutes, and a 1.5-mile run in 15 minutes or less)
- Oral interview with a selection panel
Benefits
Full-time employment with a comprehensive benefits package, including paid leave and holidays and participation in the Florida Retirement System (FRS). During the trainee program, the county pays tuition, fees, and associated training costs and provides all required uniforms and protective gear.
Firefighter trainees complete EMT training (one semester) and an 18-week fire academy while employed as paid temporary civilian employees, then convert to a full firefighter position with a 12-month probationary period and a 3-year service obligation.
What are the minimum requirements to become a firefighter here?
You must be at least 18, have a high school diploma or GED, and hold a valid Florida Driver's License. No prior experience is required — the trainee program is entry level, and you must obtain Florida Firefighter II compliance and State of Florida EMT licensure within one year.
When can I apply?
Recruitment typically opens once a year, around the May/June timeframe. Applications are submitted online through the county's GovernmentJobs portal during the recruitment period.
What does the hiring process involve?
After the online application, candidates submit a one-page essay, take a Physical Abilities Test (40 push-ups and 40 sit-ups each in 2 minutes, plus a 1.5-mile run in 15 minutes or less), and complete an oral interview with a selection panel.
Do I need to be certified before I apply?
No. Trainees are hired as paid temporary civilian employees and complete EMT training (one semester) and an 18-week fire academy on the job. The county covers tuition, fees, uniforms, and protective gear.
What commitment is required after training?
After completing certification and transferring to the Operations Division, there is a 12-month probationary period and a 3-year service obligation.
What benefits are offered?
Full-time trainees receive a salary, a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave and holidays, and participation in the Florida Retirement System (FRS).