Fire Department · Career
Rochester Fire Department
Rochester, NY · Monroe County
“Professionalism, excellence, integrity, education & teamwork”
3rd largest in New York State
The Rochester Fire Department protects New York's fourth-largest city with a force of more than 500 uniformed and non-uniformed members, making it the third-largest fire department in the state. It responds from 15 neighborhood fire stations using a fleet of 13 engines, 6 trucks, heavy rescue units, and support apparatus.
Beyond structural firefighting, RFD handles a broad all-hazards mission: vehicle extrication, medical emergencies, high-level and technical rescue, hazardous materials incidents, structural collapse, and swift-water rescue. The department also invests heavily in prevention through code enforcement and community risk reduction education.
RFD has run a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program since 1993, training residents in disaster response and preparedness alongside its professional operations.
Rochester hires firefighters through the civil service process. Candidates must first pass a written civil service exam (offered periodically), then a physical agility screening, background investigation, conditional offer, and medical exam before appointment and entry into the Fire Academy Recruit Class. City residency is required, and recruits complete NYS EMT-B coursework during the academy.
The department does not accept lateral transfers, though prior firefighting experience may help candidates during testing. Applications are submitted through the City of Rochester's online jobs portal, and the RFD Recruitment Office offers application assistance workshops during open periods.
Requirements
- At least 18 years old by the start of the Fire Academy Recruit Class
- High school diploma or GED
- Resident of the City of Rochester (residency maintained for 90 days before the physical agility exam)
- Legal U.S. resident with acceptable documentation at job offer stage
- Pass the civil service exam and physical agility screening test
Hiring process
- Civil Service Exam (written, multiple choice)
- Physical Agility Screening Test (PACER/Beep Test)
- Background Investigation
- Conditional Offer of Employment
- Medical Exam
- Appointment as Firefighter
Benefits
City firefighters receive competitive benefits including free healthcare and a robust pension plan. Recruits complete NYS EMT-B original coursework during academy training.
New recruits attend the Fire Academy Recruit Class and complete NYS EMT-B coursework during training.
What are the basic requirements to become a Rochester firefighter?
You must be at least 18 years old at the start of the Fire Academy Recruit Class, hold a high school diploma or GED, and be a resident of the City of Rochester.
How do I get hired?
The process runs in order: civil service written exam, physical agility screening test, background investigation, conditional offer of employment, medical exam, and finally appointment as a firefighter.
How much do Rochester firefighters earn?
Salaries start at approximately $54,000 per year and can rise to about $95,000 annually within a 5-year tenure, plus free healthcare and a pension.
Do I need to be a Rochester resident?
Yes. Eligible candidates must be residents of the City of Rochester and maintain residency for 90 days before the physical agility exam.
Do I need an EMT license to apply?
No. An EMT license is not required at application; recruits complete NYS EMT-B coursework during the Fire Academy.
Does Rochester accept lateral transfers?
No. The Rochester Fire Department is unable to accept transfers, though prior firefighting experience may assist you during testing.