Fire Department · Career
Knoxville Fire Department
Knoxville, IA · Marion County
The Knoxville Fire Department protects the city of Knoxville, the seat of Marion County in central Iowa. It is organized into three main divisions: EMS, Fire Suppression, and Special Operations, and also runs a Crisis Canines unit.
The department pairs fire response with emergency medical services, staffing full-time and part-time firefighters who are also certified EMTs or paramedics. Beyond structural firefighting, its members handle inspections, fire prevention, and code enforcement.
Special operations reach well beyond the city line. Knoxville firefighters train in vehicle extrication, high- and low-angle rope rescue, ice, water, confined-space, and trench rescue. The department is part of the Marion County Haz-Mat team (13 members), the Marion County Disaster Task Force serving a four-county region, and responds to water emergencies on nearby Lake Red Rock alongside Pella Fire, the DNR, and the Army Corps of Engineers.
Knoxville hires both full-time and part-time Firefighter EMT/Paramedics. Candidates must hold a valid certificate from the Central Iowa Fire and EMS Testing Consortium and clear an oral interview, physical ability test, physical exam, and drug screen. Iowa Firefighter I/II and Hazardous Materials Operations certification plus a State of Iowa EMS certification are required.
To apply, contact the department at 641-828-0586 or email firechief@knoxvilleia.gov to request an application.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Valid certificate from the Central Iowa Fire and EMS Testing Consortium
- Iowa Firefighter I, II, and Hazardous Materials Operations Level certification
- State of Iowa Emergency Medical Services certification (maintained)
- ICS 100, 200, 700, and 800 (must be obtained within 18 months of hire)
- Valid Iowa motor vehicle operator's license
- English proficiency (verbal, written, and comprehension)
- Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues
Hiring process
- Obtain a valid certificate from the Central Iowa Fire and EMS Testing Consortium
- Contact the department (641-828-0586 or firechief@knoxvilleia.gov) to request an application
- Complete an oral interview
- Pass the physical ability test
- Complete a physical examination and drug screening
What positions does Knoxville Fire Department hire for?
The department hires both full-time and part-time Firefighter EMT/Paramedics.
What certifications do I need to apply?
You need Iowa Firefighter I, II, and Hazardous Materials Operations Level certification, a State of Iowa EMS certification, and a valid certificate from the Central Iowa Fire and EMS Testing Consortium. ICS 100, 200, 700, and 800 must be obtained within 18 months of hire.
How do I apply?
Contact the Fire Department at 641-828-0586 or email firechief@knoxvilleia.gov to request an application.
What does the hiring process involve?
Applicants complete an oral interview, pass a physical ability test, and undergo a physical examination and drug screening.
Is EMS certification required?
Yes. All firefighter positions require a State of Iowa Emergency Medical Services certification, which must be maintained, as roles are Firefighter EMT/Paramedic positions.
What kind of special operations work is involved?
Firefighters train in vehicle extrication and high/low-angle rope, ice, water, confined-space, and trench rescue. The department is part of the Marion County Haz-Mat team and responds to water rescues on Lake Red Rock.