Franklin County Fire Protection District 3

Franklin County Fire District 3 was formed by election in 1953 and today is governed by three elected commissioners. The district operates as a combination department, blending a small career staff with a large corps of paid-call volunteers to protect approximately 200 square miles in the Pasco, Washington area, including the remote Juniper Dunes recreation area, out of four stations.

As an all-hazards agency, District 3 handles structural and wildland fire suppression, emergency medical response, and technical rescue calls, running two ambulances that account for roughly half of the district's total call volume. During wildfire season (typically June through September), the district also contributes personnel and apparatus to state mobilization efforts across the Tri-Cities region.

The district maintains multiple entry points into the fire service, from ride-alongs and a firefighter intern residency program to paid-call volunteer positions and career staffing, reflecting its identity as a department that continually develops its own people alongside external hires.

Franklin County Fire District 3 hires through several pathways: paid-call volunteer positions, a firefighter intern (residency) program that builds EMS and fire experience toward a career track, and periodic external career firefighter openings. Applicants for career openings download and submit a Career Application form along with reviewing the district's posted wage and benefit information before applying.