Fire Department · Career
Lansing Fire Department
Lansing, MI · Ingham County
As of December 2024, LFD staffed 181 of a fully-authorized 192 positions (152 in suppression, 29 in administration); annual call volume is approaching 30,000 responses.
Lansing Fire Department (LFD) is the primary fire and emergency medical services provider for the City of Lansing, Michigan, serving a population of roughly 115,000 residents from six fire stations spread across the city. The department fields specialized capabilities beyond structural firefighting, including hazardous materials response and technical rescue teams that operate as part of the regional Metro Lansing response network, vehicle extrication, and water/ice rescue, alongside a busy EMS transport operation that accounts for the majority of its call volume.
LFD holds an ISO Public Protection Classification of Class 2, one of the higher ratings on the 10-point insurance scale, and is currently pursuing an updated assessment it expects will move that rating to Class 1. The department is guided by a 2024-2029 five-year strategic plan built around six community-driven goals, and it maintains an active community-risk-reduction program that includes fire safety education, smoke-alarm installations, and inspections led by its Fire Prevention/Fire Marshal division.
Fire Station 1, home to LFD's administrative offices and the Lansing Fire Museum, anchors downtown coverage for events like Common Ground and Silver Bells in the City. Other stations carry additional regional roles: Station 4 and Station 8 respond as part of the Metro Lansing hazmat and technical rescue teams, while Stations 2, 6, and 9 provide vehicle extrication and water/ice rescue alongside standard fire and EMS coverage. The department also runs a Cadet Program that gives Lansing-area youth a pipeline into a firefighting career.
MissionThe Lansing Fire Department is committed to serving the community with the highest levels of life and property protection, and achieving this with pride, professionalism, excellence, and integrity.
LFD hires Firefighter Trainees who train and are paid through the City of Lansing Fire Academy before advancing to Firefighter EMT/Paramedic classifications. Per the department's own FAQ, LFD typically hires several times a year, with openings announced on the city's job portal, the department website, and its social media accounts; there were no open Fire postings on the city's job board at time of writing.
Requirements
- At least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED
- Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record
- Able to obtain State of Michigan Firefighter I and II certification and an EMS license
- No felony convictions and no pending criminal charges
- Must pass a psychological evaluation and pre-employment medical exam
- Must obtain a Paramedic license as a condition of employment
Hiring process
- Online assessment exam
- Mandatory Physical Ability Test (PAT)
- Interview
- Psychological assessment
- Pre-employment physical and drug screening
- Background and reference checks
Selected candidates attend the City of Lansing Fire Academy as paid Firefighter Trainees, then advance to Firefighter EMT or Firefighter Paramedic classifications upon completing certification.
How can I get a smoke detector?
Call 311 or 517-483-4200 to make an appointment and determine if you are eligible.
I called the main line (517-483-4200) and no one picked up. What should I do?
The mainline is an administrative number monitored only during business hours. You can always call 911 and speak with dispatch, who will determine if it's an emergency and what actions are necessary.
How do I schedule a fire safety presentation?
LFD personnel are available to give fire safety presentations to classes or groups. Contact the Fire Prevention Division at 517-483-4200 for more information.
I want to work for LFD. What steps should I take?
LFD typically hires several times a year. Watch the department's website and social media pages, and check the City's hiring webpage for openings.
How do I get a burn permit, and why do I need one?
A permit can be purchased online or from the Lansing Fire Department Administration Office at 120 E Shiawassee Street. Burn permits let the department know to expect small amounts of smoke from your property and are an opportunity to learn the rules and regulations of burning in city limits.