Fire Department · Career
Spartanburg Fire Department
Spartanburg, SC · Spartanburg County
“Preservation through Prevention”
only all-career department in Spartanburg County
No active openings right now
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Department careers page ↗Spartanburg Fire Department protects the city of Spartanburg, South Carolina, serving roughly 40,000 residents plus the surrounding business community across about 20 square miles from five fire stations. It is the only department in Spartanburg County staffed entirely by career firefighters and also assists departments beyond the city limits when needed.
The department has earned an ISO Class 1 rating from the Insurance Services Office, placing it in the top 1% of departments statewide and nationally for fire suppression and helping city residents realize meaningful homeowner's insurance savings.
Spartanburg is a Reaccredited Agency with the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI), a distinction held by fewer than 10 departments in South Carolina. It was first accredited in 2003 and has maintained that status through reaccreditations in 2008, 2016, and 2021.
MissionTo protect the community through effective fire prevention efforts and provide an efficient response and mitigation of emergency incidents.
Hiring runs through a civil service process, and candidates apply online via GovernmentJobs.com. After applying, the same-day testing phase combines a written exam, a timed agility course based on NFPA 1583, and a panel interview, followed by a background investigation and a chief's interview.
Candidates who receive a conditional offer complete an NFPA 1582 medical evaluation before a final job offer. An exam study guide is available through Public Safety Compass, and the department offers ride-along opportunities for prospective applicants.
Requirements
- At least 18 years old
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Valid driver's license
- U.S. citizenship
- No felony convictions
- No illegal drug use in the past two years
Hiring process
- Written exam (same day)
- Timed agility course based on NFPA 1583 (same day)
- Panel interview (same day)
- Background investigation
- Chief's interview
- Conditional employment offer
- Medical evaluation based on NFPA 1582
- Final job offer
Benefits
Longevity pay, general leave accrual, health, dental and vision insurance, retirement programs, life insurance, paid training, uniforms, and access to an onsite health clinic.
What are the minimum requirements to become a Spartanburg firefighter?
You must be at least 18, have a high school diploma or equivalent, hold a valid driver's license, be a U.S. citizen, have no felony convictions, and have no illegal drug use in the past two years.
How do I apply?
Applications are submitted online through GovernmentJobs.com. The department hires through a civil service process with testing held throughout the year as needed.
What does the hiring process involve?
It begins with a same-day written exam, a timed agility course (NFPA 1583), and a panel interview, followed by a background investigation, a chief's interview, a conditional offer, an NFPA 1582 medical evaluation, and a final job offer.
What is the starting pay?
As of July 2022, starting salaries were $43,711 for an uncertified Firefighter I, $45,897 for a certified Firefighter II, and $48,191 for a Firefighter Specialist (FF2 plus Engine Driver Academy).
Do I need to be certified before applying?
No. Uncertified candidates can start as Firefighter I, with higher pay tiers for certified firefighters and those who complete the Engine Driver Academy.
What benefits are offered?
Benefits include longevity pay, general leave accrual, health, dental and vision insurance, retirement programs, life insurance, paid training, uniforms, and access to an onsite health clinic.