Fire Department · Career
Dubuque Fire Department
Dubuque, IA · Dubuque County
The Dubuque Fire Department serves the City of Dubuque in eastern Iowa, protecting approximately 60,000 residents spread over about 32 square miles. Its coverage area spans residential neighborhoods, a downtown commercial core with high-rise structures, and the Mississippi River waterfront.
The department provides both fire protection and EMS/ambulance service, and carries a strong ISO Class 2 rating. It operates around the clock from its headquarters at 11 West 9th Street.
The department frames its work around core values of professionalism, responsibility, integrity, duty, and empathy, and follows a 2025-2030 strategic plan for continuous improvement. Community services include station tours, ride-alongs, safety education, and Fire Marshal permitting.
MissionTo protect, assist, and educate our community and visitors with pride, skill, and compassion.
The department hires firefighters through the City of Dubuque's employment process, which includes a Physical Ability Test as part of the screening. City jobs are posted and applied for through the City of Dubuque's online careers portal.
Specific requirements, pay, and the current hiring status were not detailed on the pages reviewed; prospective candidates should check the City's careers portal and the Fire-Rescue Employment page for open postings and testing information.
Hiring process
- Apply through the City of Dubuque careers portal
- Complete the Physical Ability Test
How do I apply to become a Dubuque firefighter?
Firefighter openings are posted and applied for through the City of Dubuque's employment portal on GovernmentJobs. The Fire-Rescue Employment page also links to Physical Ability Test information.
Is there a physical test in the hiring process?
Yes. Candidates must complete a Physical Ability Test as part of the department's employment screening.
Does Dubuque Fire provide EMS or ambulance service?
Yes. The Dubuque Fire Department provides EMS/ambulance service in addition to fire suppression.
What area and population does the department cover?
The department serves approximately 60,000 residents across about 32 square miles, including residential, commercial, high-rise, and Mississippi River areas.
What is the department's ISO rating?
The Dubuque Fire Department carries an ISO Class 2 rating.