Fire Department · Combination
Botetourt County Fire & EMS
Fincastle, VA · Botetourt County
48 full-time and 26 part-time career staff, supplemented by 125+ volunteers across 7 fire/rescue companies; 5 ALS ambulances staffed 24/7 plus a full-time engine company at Read Mountain.
No active openings right now
Watch this department to be notified when Botetourt County Fire & EMS is hiring, or check their careers page.
Department careers page ↗Botetourt County Fire & EMS is a combined career-volunteer emergency services system covering roughly 548 square miles and more than 32,000 residents in western Virginia, with its headquarters in the county seat of Fincastle. The department coordinates fire suppression, technical rescue, and EMS transport across seven company stations spread throughout the county, from Blue Ridge and Troutville in the north to Eagle Rock and Glen Wilton in the west.
The department was formally codified in 2014, though the county's paramedic-level EMS program traces back to 2001. Jeffrey W. Beckner served as the first chief starting in fall 2014, and current Chief Jason D. Ferguson, who has been with the department since its founding, has led the agency since December 2018.
Staffing blends roughly 48 full-time and 26 part-time career personnel with more than 125 active volunteers across the county's seven fire and rescue companies. The career side operates five ALS ambulances staffed around the clock along with a full-time engine company based at Read Mountain, while volunteer companies provide the backbone of coverage in the more rural parts of the county.
MissionThe combined agencies of Botetourt County Emergency Services will provide prompt and professional services to our community in order to protect citizens, property, and the environment.
Botetourt County Fire & EMS hires both career and volunteer firefighter/EMS personnel, and accepts both certified candidates and applicants with no prior experience who are willing to attend the department's academy training.
Requirements
- Age 21 or older
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid, non-restricted Virginia driver's license with a good driving record
- Pass a comprehensive physical exam (drug, sight, and hearing tests)
- Ability to perform the physical tasks associated with fire suppression and EMS operations
- Pass the Roanoke Valley Physical Performance Test
Hiring process
- Apply through the county's online job portal
- Pass the Roanoke Valley Physical Performance Test
- Pass background, physical, and driving-record checks
- Attend department academy training if not already certified
Benefits
Employees have access to an Employee Assistance Program and Carilion Health & Wellness programs.
The department hosts and participates in academy training for candidates who are not already certified as firefighters/EMTs/paramedics.
What is the work schedule for career firefighters and EMTs?
Career staff work 24-hour shifts on a rotating schedule of 3 days on and 4 days off.
Do I need prior experience or certification to apply?
No. The department accepts both already-certified candidates and applicants with no prior experience, who are trained through the department's academy.
What are the minimum requirements to become a firefighter/EMT?
Applicants must be at least 21 years old, hold a high school diploma or GED, have a valid non-restricted Virginia driver's license, and pass a physical exam and the Roanoke Valley Physical Performance Test.
Does Botetourt County Fire & EMS accept volunteers?
Yes, the department relies on 125+ volunteers across its seven fire and rescue companies and accepts both certified members and those willing to obtain certification.