Fire Department · Career
Ocala Fire Rescue
Ocala, FL · Marion County
Ocala Fire Rescue (OFR) traces its roots to 1885 and today operates as a non-transport Advanced Life Support (ALS) department serving the city of Ocala in Marion County, Florida. The department runs from seven fire stations, with an eighth broken ground in early 2026 to cover the city's growing northwest corridor.
OFR employs about 149 people, roughly 132 of them assigned to emergency response, protecting a resident population of more than 63,000 that nearly doubles during peak daytime hours thanks to the many state roads and interstate exits running through the city. In 2023 the department answered over 26,000 calls across a 47-square-mile response area.
Operationally the department is organized into six divisions: Fire Administration, Fire Safety Management, Suppression, Fire Safety Education, EMS/Training, and Communications. Battalion Chiefs oversee the seven stations and the more than 120 firefighters working the line.
Ocala Fire Rescue hires for Firefighter/EMT and Firefighter/Paramedic positions on a continuous basis, seeking candidates who already hold Florida firefighter and EMS certifications. Applications are submitted online through the City of Ocala's employment portal at www.ocalafl.gov/employment.
The department also partners with Marion County Fire Rescue on the Ocala-Marion Mentorship Program, which develops cadets from the local community. For questions, candidates can reach the OFR administrative office at (352) 629-8306.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED (college coursework in EMS/fire fields desirable)
- Current Florida Firefighter Certificate of Compliance (F.S. 633.34)
- Current Florida EMT or Paramedic Certificate
- American Heart Association BLS/Healthcare Provider card
- Emergency Vehicle Operator Course (EVOC) certification
- Current Candidate Physical Agility Test (CPAT)
- Non-user of tobacco or tobacco products for at least one year immediately preceding employment
- Acceptable driving record (DUI, reckless driving, license suspension, and point-accumulation disqualifiers apply)
Hiring process
- Submit a complete online application with full employment and education history
- Attach all required certifications
- Receive a conditional offer upon meeting qualifications
- Pass a physical ability evaluation and medical examination
- Complete background verification of education and work history
Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance; life insurance and disability coverage; flexible spending accounts; on-site employee clinic and mental health resources; annual sick and vacation leave; a six-week Kelly day; a defined-benefit pension plan; tuition reimbursement; and specialized team pay opportunities.
What positions does Ocala Fire Rescue hire for?
OFR hires Firefighter/EMTs and Firefighter/Paramedics. Both roles require current Florida firefighter and EMS certifications before applying.
What does the job pay?
Starting pay is $52,020.28 annually for a Firefighter/EMT and $62,228.28 for a Firefighter/Paramedic (paramedic rate applies upon clearance from the Medical Director).
What is the work schedule?
Crews work a 24/48 rotation (24 hours on, 48 hours off) with a six-week Kelly day cycle.
What certifications do I need to apply?
You need a current Florida Firefighter Certificate of Compliance, a Florida EMT or Paramedic certificate, an AHA BLS/Healthcare Provider card, EVOC certification, and a current CPAT. A high school diploma or GED is also required.
How do I apply?
Apply online through the City of Ocala employment portal at www.ocalafl.gov/employment. For questions, call the OFR administrative office at (352) 629-8306.
Are there any tobacco or driving restrictions?
Yes. Applicants must be a non-user of tobacco products for at least one year before employment, and several driving-record disqualifiers (such as DUI, reckless driving, or license suspension within recent years) apply.