Fire Department · Career
Palm Beach County Fire Rescue
West Palm Beach, FL · Palm Beach County
“Excellence Today, Improving Tomorrow”
One of the largest departments in Florida
No active openings right now
Watch this department to be notified when Palm Beach County Fire Rescue is hiring, or check their careers page.
Department careers page ↗Palm Beach County Fire Rescue is a countywide, all-hazards department serving one of Florida's largest and most geographically diverse regions, spanning nearly 1,800 square miles from coastal communities to the western Everglades. It responds to more than 156,000 emergency calls a year across structure fires, medical emergencies, crashes, hazardous materials, aircraft incidents, and water and technical rescues.
With roughly 2,057 employees and 51 fire stations, including a station at Palm Beach International Airport, the department operates at a large-agency scale while emphasizing a culture of continuous improvement.
In FY 2022 the department earned the ISO Class 1 Public Protection Classification, placing it among a small group of elite fire departments nationwide. Its work is organized around core values of integrity, unity, compassion, accountability, and dedication.
MissionTo drive a continuous improvement culture of excellence that achieves a measurably high level of public satisfaction
Palm Beach County Fire Rescue hires certified firefighters through the county's online jobs portal at www.pbcgov.jobs, and applications are accepted only when an active listing is open. Postings typically occur every one to two years based on departmental needs, so candidates are encouraged to submit a Recruiting Interest Card to be notified when a listing opens.
Applicants must already hold Florida Firefighter, EMT or Paramedic, and CPAT credentials before applying. Applications must be submitted online during the open window; no alternate submission methods are accepted, and materials cannot be modified after a listing closes.
Requirements
- At least 18 years old
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Current, valid Florida Firefighter Certificate of Compliance
- Florida EMT or Paramedic certification (National Registry NREMT not accepted)
- IAFF-sanctioned CPAT passed within 1 year of the job closing date
- 16-hour Emergency Vehicle Operator Course (EVOC), classroom and practical
- Valid Florida Class E driver's license
- Tobacco-free for at least 1 year before applying and throughout employment
Hiring process
- Wait for an active firefighter listing to open (typically every 1-2 years)
- Submit an application online at www.pbcgov.jobs during the open window
- Ensure all required certifications (Florida Firefighter, EMT/Paramedic, CPAT, EVOC) are complete before the listing closes
Benefits
Membership in the Florida Retirement System; medical, dental, and vision insurance; life insurance; 105 hours of paid sick leave and 105 hours of paid vacation in the first year; tuition reimbursement (100% for grades of C or better); and promotional opportunities.
What certifications do I need to become a Palm Beach County firefighter?
You must hold a current Florida Firefighter Certificate of Compliance, a Florida EMT or Paramedic certification (National Registry NREMT is not accepted), a passed IAFF-sanctioned CPAT within one year of the closing date, and a 16-hour EVOC course, along with a valid Florida Class E driver's license.
How do I apply?
Applications are accepted only online at www.pbcgov.jobs, and only when an active firefighter listing is open. No alternate submission methods are accepted, and applications cannot be modified after the listing closes.
How often does the department hire?
Firefighter postings typically occur every one to two years based on departmental needs. You can submit a Recruiting Interest Card to be notified when a new listing opens.
What is the starting salary?
Starting pay for a Firefighter EMT/Paramedic is $60,650 (subject to change), with a 12-year step increase schedule.
What is the work schedule?
Firefighters work a 24/72 shift pattern.
Is the department tobacco-free?
Yes. Applicants must be tobacco-free for at least one year before applying and must not use tobacco during employment.