Fire Department · Combination
Westerville Division Of Fire
Westerville, OH · Franklin County
Apply by July 10 for a Deputy Fire Chief position overseeing EMS operations in Westerville, OH. Salary $111,987–$172,286 annual with comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision, and retirement.
Westerville Division Of Fire seeks a Deputy Fire Chief at $111,987–$172,286 annual. Requires a bachelor’s degree and over five years of supervisory experience in fire administration.
The Westerville Division of Fire protects the city of Westerville and adjacent Blendon Township in the northern Columbus, Ohio metro, serving a combined population of roughly 50,000 residents. The Division began as a volunteer company in 1860 and operated with volunteers for more than a hundred years before transitioning to a career department.
Operations run out of three stations. Station 111, the West Main Street headquarters, houses a rescue/pumper, ladder, medic, the shift incident commander, and a boat. Station 112 on East Schrock Road runs an engine and medic, and Station 113 on North Spring Street runs a paramedic engine, a BLS squad, and a rescue boat.
The Division responds to more than 9,000 fire and EMS calls annually, providing fire suppression, prevention, and emergency medical services including paramedic-level care and transport.
Westerville hires primarily at the Firefighter/Paramedic level, and as of January 1, 2026 also hires Firefighter/EMT-Basic candidates who are enrolled in, or able to enroll in, a paramedic program within six months of hire. Entry-level candidates register and test through the National Testing Network (NTN) before the application deadline.
Beyond the written exam, the process includes the Firefighter Mile physical assessment, a first interview, a background investigation, and a drug screen, physical, and psychological evaluation. The Division advertises paid paramedic school, a competitive pay scale, and a strong benefits package as part of the offer.
Requirements
- High school diploma or G.E.D.
- Ohio Firefighter II certification
- State of Ohio EMT certification (Paramedic required for hires after January 1, 2007)
- For Firefighter/EMT-Basic hires (as of Jan 1, 2026): enrolled in, or able to enroll in, a certified paramedic program within 6 months of hire
- Valid Ohio driver's license without excessive violations
- Physical ability to lift/carry 125 lbs and drag 175 lbs for 100+ feet, climb ladders, and work in severe weather
Hiring process
- Register for and complete the National Testing Network (NTN) entry-level exam
- Submit application with supplemental questionnaire before the deadline
- Complete the Firefighter Mile physical assessment
- First interview
- Background check
- Drug screen, physical, and psychological examinations
Benefits
The Division advertises paid paramedic school, a competitive pay scale, and an outstanding benefits package. Full-time members receive education incentives, tuition reimbursement, and longevity pay.
Candidates must already hold Ohio Firefighter II certification; the Division offers paid paramedic school for those not yet certified as paramedics.
What certifications do I need to apply?
You must have a high school diploma or G.E.D., Ohio Firefighter II certification, and State of Ohio EMT certification. Paramedic certification is required for the Firefighter/Paramedic role; Firefighter/EMT-Basic hires must be enrolled in or able to enroll in a paramedic program within six months of hire.
How do I start the application process?
Register for and complete the National Testing Network (NTN) entry-level exam before the application deadline, then submit your application with the supplemental questionnaire.
What does the hiring process involve?
After the NTN exam and application, candidates complete the Firefighter Mile physical assessment, a first interview, a background check, and a drug screen, physical, and psychological examination.
What is the pay for a Westerville firefighter?
Firefighter/Paramedic pay ranges from about $27.75 to $37.83 per hour, roughly $76,479 to $104,259 annually, with education incentives, tuition reimbursement, and longevity pay.
What is the work schedule?
Firefighters work 24-hour shifts.
Do I have to pay for paramedic school?
No. The Division advertises paid paramedic school, so firefighters hired without paramedic certification can complete it through the department.
Past postings, kept for reference. These are no longer accepting applications.