Fire Department · Career
Tampa Fire Rescue
Tampa, FL · Hillsborough County
“#BecomeTheBravest”
Tampa Fire Rescue protects the city of Tampa and MacDill Air Force Base from 23 fire stations plus two dedicated rescue stations. Established on May 10, 1895, the department has provided over 125 years of continuous service to the community.
The agency is organized into Operations, Rescue, Communications, Prevention, and Administrative divisions, delivering fire suppression, Advanced Life Support (ALS) emergency medical care, and a range of technical and specialty response capabilities.
Beyond emergency response, Tampa Fire Rescue handles fire prevention, building code review and enforcement, fire and life safety education, and arson investigation through the Fire Marshal's office. The department has been accredited by the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI).
Missionprotect our community by providing immediate responses to all requests for service
Tampa Fire Rescue hires firefighters who already hold a Florida Firefighter Certificate of Compliance along with EMT or Paramedic certification. The department does not accept single-certification candidates or lateral transfers, so every hire completes full recruit training regardless of prior experience.
Out-of-state firefighters must first complete the Florida Firefighter Equivalency Process, and all new hires must obtain a State of Florida Paramedic certification within three years of hire.
Requirements
- At least 18 years old
- Valid Florida driver's license
- Valid Florida Firefighter Certificate of Compliance
- EMT or Paramedic certification (no single-certification firefighters)
- Current CPR/ACLS certification
- Must obtain State of Florida Paramedic certification within three years of hire
- Out-of-state firefighters must complete the Florida Firefighter Equivalency Process
No lateral transfers; all candidates complete full recruit training. The Firefighter Minimum Standards Course is offered at numerous Certified Training Centers throughout Florida, each with its own schedule and fees.
What certifications do I need to apply to Tampa Fire Rescue?
You must hold a valid Florida Firefighter Certificate of Compliance along with EMT or Paramedic certification, plus current CPR/ACLS certification. Single-certification firefighters, EMTs, or paramedics are not accepted.
Does Tampa Fire Rescue accept lateral transfers?
No. There are no lateral transfers; all candidates must complete full recruit training regardless of prior firefighting experience.
Do I have to be a paramedic to get hired?
You can apply as an EMT or paramedic, but all new hires are required to obtain a State of Florida Paramedic certification within three years of being hired.
I'm a firefighter from another state. Can I apply?
Yes, but out-of-state firefighters must first complete the Florida Firefighter Equivalency Process to earn Florida certification.
How do I complete the required firefighter training?
The Firefighter Minimum Standards Course is offered at numerous Certified Training Centers located throughout Florida, each with varying schedules and fees.