Fire Department · Career
Independence Fire Department
Independence, MO · Jackson County
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Department careers page ↗Independence Fire Department traces its roots to 1843, when Richard Ridgeway Rees, James McGill, Anthony Cosgrave, Benjamin Franklin Wallace, and 36 others petitioned the Missouri legislature to incorporate the "Independence Fire Company." The department transitioned from a volunteer bucket-and-hook outfit to a paid force in 1894, motorized in 1928 with its first American LaFrance pumpers, and expanded rapidly through the mid-20th century as the city grew from roughly 16,000 to nearly 100,000 residents.
Today IFD operates 10 stations (an 11th under construction) with 15 apparatus and roughly 190 personnel, answering over 26,500 calls a year, more than double its 2004 call volume. The department has been led by a number of notable chiefs, including Sandra Schiess, the first female fire chief in Missouri, who oversaw ISO Class 2 improvements funded by a public safety sales tax; current Chief Jimmy Walker took over in 2024 after more than 28 years with Kansas City Fire Department.
IFD fields specialty apparatus including a dedicated hazmat unit at Station 5, brush/wildland units at Stations 3 and 9, rescue companies, and a fire investigation unit based at Station 7, alongside standard engine and truck companies citywide.
MissionThe Independence Fire Department will meet the challenges of present and future community needs through proactive leadership, dedication to our core values, provision of quality All-Hazard emergency services and community risk-reduction strategies in an efficient and effective manner.
Independence Fire Department hires entry-level firefighters through the City of Independence's online application portal, with a Regional Firefighter written exam, background investigation, medical exam, and drug test as part of the process.
Requirements
- At least 18 years old
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Missouri Firefighter I & II certification (Associate's degree in Fire Science preferred)
- Missouri Hazmat Awareness and Operations certifications
- EMT-Basic certification (Paramedic certification preferred, earns 5% pay differential)
- CPAT certification completed within the last 12 months
- Valid driver's license
- Pass the Regional Firefighter written exam
- Pass background investigation, medical exam, and drug test
- Able to lift heavy objects, climb ladders, operate extrication equipment, and work in extreme weather
Hiring process
- Submit application through the city's Dayforce candidate portal
- Pass the Regional Firefighter written exam
- Background investigation
- Medical exam and drug test
- CPAT physical ability certification
Benefits
Paid vacation, personal business, and sick leave; 13 designated holidays; 80/20 employer-paid medical and dental coverage; Missouri LAGERS L-6 and 401(a) retirement plans; 457(b) deferred compensation; employer-paid life insurance and long-term disability; HSA contributions; annual wellness fitness physical; $720 annual uniform allowance; 5% annual step increases.
How old is the Independence Fire Department?
It was established in 1843, making it one of the oldest fire departments west of the Mississippi River.
How many stations and personnel does IFD have?
IFD operates 10 fire stations (an 11th under construction) with about 190 personnel and 15 apparatus.
What schedule do Independence firefighters work?
Firefighters work a 24/48 schedule, averaging 49.5 hours per week with Kelly Days built in.
What certifications are required to apply?
Applicants need Missouri Firefighter I & II certification, Hazmat Awareness and Operations certification, EMT-Basic certification, and a CPAT completed within the last 12 months.