Firefighter Academy

City of Wilmington, NC

The City of Wilmington is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Position Description

The City of Wilmington is accepting applications for the upcoming Firefighter Academy

S tart date : November 2, 2026

Please read this post in it's entirety as there is important information for all phases throughout this posting

  • To ensure accuracy and consistency of information, questions that can not be answered from the information in the posting or found on the Fire Department's recruitment page, must be directed to ***email_hidden***; please do not contact other employees or divisions within the Fire Department. Phone calls are not accepted and voicemails will not be returned during the recruitment process. Correspondence of all nature must be and will be through email.
  • Please make sure to check your SPAM and junk folder in the email provided on your application as this will be the only source of communication from the city when updates or next steps are provided. Notifications will come from an email address containing @wilmingtonnc.gov. Scheduling or rescheduling requests made outside of the provided timeframes will not be approved for failure to view notifications or personal/work conflicts.
  • If military orders prevent in-person attendance, candidates must email an accommodation request with military orders attached.
  • Timelines are arranged but subject to adjustment based on weather or unforeseen circumstances.

RECRUITMENT PROCESS

STEP # 1 PASS STRENGTH AND AGILITY TEST - JPAT

Sign up for your preferred testing date by following this link

  • July 7, 2026: Check in : 05:45 PM - 06:00 PM : Testing after
  • July 18, 2026: Check in: 07:45 AM - 08:00 AM : Testing after

TESTING LOCATION

The test course is located at our Safety Training Center on Cape Fear Community College, North Campus at 4500 Blue Clay Road in Castle Hayne, NC.

Requirements

  • Long pants or sweatpants, shorts may be worn for the run only.
  • Closed toed athletic shoes must be worn in order to participate in the test course.
  • Own pair of work/construction/mechanic gloves.
  • Check in requires proof of valid driver's license/identification card.
  • Candidates will be required to submit to baseline vitals prior to beginning the course.

Results

  • Once candidates successfully complete the JPAT, they will receive an email notification/certification in the following days that should be attached to the application for proof of completion. This certification is good for 1 year.

For more information about the Fire Department and the Strength and Agility Test, please visit the Fire Department website: https://www.wilmingtonnc.gov/Public-Safety/Fire-Department/Careers

STEP # 2 SUBMIT APPLICATION

  • Complete application with thorough and up to date information
    • In order for education, certifications or experience to be considered, proof of completion must be attached. If you state you have it, attach it:
      • EDUCATION:
        • Transcript or Diploma from the highest level of education completed. (Note, HS transcript is required for EMT training and must submitted before October 8, 2026)
        • If credit hours selected, transcripts must be added to support hours (CE credits do not count)
        • All transcripts (HS and College) must indicate graduation/completion date for consideration
      • CERTIFICATIONS/VERIFICATIONS:
        • All relevant certifications received must be attached for consideration
          • NC EMT, NC Certified Firefighter, Technical Rescue, Driver/Operator
          • HS Fire course or Junior Academy certification of completion must be attached
      • MILITARY
        • DD214 to support active duty military experience must be submitted
        • Orders for current Active Duty
      • JPAT CERTIFICATION -
        • Submit certification with application
        • Applicants are able to re-submit applications to include all required documents or information. The most recent application will be reviewed.
      • SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONS
        • Must be answered thoroughly and supported within the work history/text of the application
        • If you state you have ANY firefighter/responder experience (FT, Volunteer, Part time) it must be listed under your work history with location/department
        • Please ensure the documents you attach are legible and comply with the above needs

AFTER POST CLOSE JULY 22, 2026

Applications will be reviewed. Those determined to most closely meet the needs of the department and selected to advance to the interview process will be notified by email by July 28, 2026.

Interview dates and times will be self-scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Applicants are encouraged to monitor their email regularly for updates, as appointment availability will be limited.

STEP # 3 DEPARTMENT PANEL INTERVIEWS : August 3 - August 7

STEP

# 4 CHIEF PANEL INTERVIEW : August 17 - August 20

Interview processes #3 and #4 are on site interviews. If selected to move onto the Chief panel interviews, applicants will be notified by email no later than August 11, 2026.

IF PROVIDED A CONDITIONAL OFFER

STEP # 5 PRE-EMPLOYMENT PROCESS

  • Personal and Professional Reference Check
    • Provide email and phone numbers of 3 references
  • Criminal Background Investigation - It will be required for the candidate to return to Wilmington to submit fingerprints before September 15, 2026
    • This position has been identified to interact with children and must comply with NC G.S. 153A-94.2(b) requires an applicant for employment that "works with children in any capacity, must require the applicant, if offered the position, to be subject to a criminal history record check conducted by the SBI.” These checks must be conducted in accordance with G.S. 143B-1209.26(Download PDF reader), the statute which authorizes the SBI to provide a fingerprint-based state and national criminal record check to cities and counties.
  • Driving History Check
  • Local Physical and Stress Test - Out of city/state applicants must return to Wilmington
  • Drug Screen
  • Uniform sizing

STEP # 6 REQUIRED DOCUMENT SUBMISSION BY OCTOBER 8, 2026

  • Copy of a High School Diploma, High School Transcript or GED Certificate
  • Valid Driver’s License
  • English Placement / CASAS Results - Required by CFCC for EMT-B
    • Submit Transcript showing completion of College English (course 100 or higher) within the past five (5) years or
    • Submit Passing results on the CASAS of 249 or higher within the last 12 months.

Compensation

Candidates selected for hire will go through the Wilmington Fire Department Academy with a salary of $55,140.80 or $26.51/hr. Upon graduating from the academy, candidates will increase to $ 58,036.16, or $19.93/hr

Please note: City Council has approved a Living Wage increase, and the salary shown in this posting will take effect beginning July 1.

The salary provided is the base rate for the position and does not take into account the occurrence of built-in shift overtime or the city recognized holidays. Academy graduates can also receive education pay resulting in an increase of $1,000 for an Associate Degree and $2,000 for Bachelor/Master Degree with the submission of required documentation.

Typical Tasks

Job Duties While In Academy

Schedule : Monday - Friday; 7:30am - 4:30pm

  • Develops qualifications for Firefighter position; receives training and instruction in firefighting, rescue techniques, emergency medical procedures, medical lifesaving, handling of hazardous materials and fire life safety education.
  • Attends classes; completes physical training; gains knowledge of equipment and equipment operations, rescue materials and supplies.
  • Observes professional firefighter duties in the performance of firefighting and the provision of emergency medical services; attends emergency events, and gains knowledge of related duties.
  • Gains knowledge of department standards, policies, and procedures.
  • Performs other duties of a similar nature as assigned

Job Duties As a Firefighter

Shift starts at 7:30am ; 24hr on, 24hr off, 24hr on, 24hr off, 24hr on, 96hr off

  • Maintains readiness to respond to emergency and non-emergency requests for assistance and for the protection of life and property; participates in continuous professional development, participates in required education, crew-based training, and physical fitness.
  • Responds to emergency situations and provides fire suppression, fire prevention and emergency medical assistance; assesses situations and establishes action priorities; selects and deploys appropriate equipment and medical interventions.
  • Assists in mitigating release of hazardous materials and responding to related incidents.
  • Drives, operates, maintains, and spots fire apparatus.
  • Maintains equipment and facilities and ensures operational readiness for emergency and non-emergency response; performs general facility maintenance and cleaning, yardwork, and upkeep; inspects, identifies, repairs and/or requests equipment maintenance to meet operational standards.
  • Perform inspection and maintenance on fire hydrants in accordance with Fire/Emergency Management Department policy.
  • Performs operational and administrative duties to prepare and complete training/activity record reports, conducts pre-incident surveys, identifies hazards and potential threats, and documents findings.
  • Provides tours of facilities and demonstrates fire equipment; participates in community education on fire and life safety and related topics to children and adults.
  • Follows all policies and procedures of the City of Wilmington, Fire/Emergency Management
  • Provides support to other agencies.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

  • Must be at least 18 years old before November 2, 2026
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
  • Education: Minimum of H.S. Diploma or GED before October 8, 2026
  • Valid/active US driver's license before October 8, 2026
  • Passing College English or CASAS results before October 8, 2026
  • Pass the WFD JPAT/ Physical Fitness Test within the last year - CPAT is not accepted

Our Core Values

INCLUSION | COLLABORATION | CREATIVITY | ACCOUNTABILITY

Our Mission Statement: Through forward-thinking policies and responsible stewardship, we are creating a better city every day with excellent core services and quality of life for all.

What We Offer

The City of Wilmington believes that employees are one of our most important resources. We offer an excellent salary and competitive benefits package to serve the needs of our employees and their families. Our benefits package includes:

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance + many other insurance options
  • Excellent retirement benefits, including a city provided 4.5% contribution each pay period into a 401(k) account and automatic enrollment into the North Carolina Local Government Employees’ Retirement System
  • Employer-paid health & wellness clinic
  • Free on-site city gym access
  • Paid sick and vacation leave + 13 paid holidays per year
  • 6-weeks paid parental leave
  • Paid volunteer & blood donation leave to give back to our community
  • Flex schedule and telework availability, depending on your position
  • Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives
  • Tuition assistance benefits

Applicant Status Updates: After the closing date for this position, applications will be screened by Human Resources. Applicants who meet the minimum and/or preferred qualifications will be referred over to the hiring department. All updates regarding an application can be viewed through your applicant portal.

Benefits are offered to employees working at least 30 hours per week.

Health Insurance - The City offers two options for health coverage: a standard PPO plan and a High Deductible Health Plan with an associated Health Savings Account. Coverage becomes effective the first day of the month following 30 days of employment for employees and their eligible dependents. Both you and the City contribute to the overall cost of coverage.

Dental Insurance - Coverage becomes effective the first day of the month following 30 days of employment. Employees, their spouse and dependent children are eligible for coverage.

Life Insurance - The city pays to provide coverage valued at one times your annual salary. Supplemental insurance is available for employees to purchase. Optional coverage for dependents is also available for purchase.

Retirement

  • NC Local Government Retirement System - All benefits eligible employees make a mandatory 6% contribution every pay period.
  • Deferred Compensation – For all employees, the city contributes 4.5% of salary to a 401(k) plan regardless of employee contribution and the City contributes an additional 3% of salary to the 457 plan for Public Safety Fire employees. In addition, the City offers to match an employee contribution dollar for dollar up to 3% of the annual salary for Public Safety Fire employees to the 457 plan. Employees may choose to contribute additional money to the deferred compensation plans, without a match from the City, within the IRS guidelines.
  • Social Security benefits – calculated under Windfall Elimination Provision

Paid Leave

  • Sick Leave - 12 days accrued each year
  • Annual Leave - Accrual based on years of service and classification. Employees can earn from 10 to 24 days each year.
  • Holidays - 13 paid holidays annually
  • Paid Parental Leave - Six weeks of paid leave for the birth, adoption or placement of a child.

Miscellaneous

  • Tuition reimbursement up to $1500 annually
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Bereavement Leave- School Support Leave
  • Short & Long Term Disability
  • Cancer & Critical Illness
  • Accident Insurance
  • Whole Life Insurance
  • Credit Union membership

Note: The City of Wilmington is on a bi-weekly pay cycle. New employees should expect to recieve their first paycheck approximately 3 weeks after their start date.

This is intended to be a brief overview of the benefits offered. Please visit our website at https://www.wilmingtonnc.gov/Government/Departments-Divisions/Human-Resources/Benefits for more information.

Each applicant must complete this supplemental questionnaire as a part of the application screening process. The information you provide will be reviewed and used to determine your eligibility to move forward in the selection process. Incomplete responses, false statements, omissions, or partial information may result in disqualification from the selection process. Do you agree to answer each supplemental question truthfully and that your responses can be verified from information included within the application?

  • Yes

Are you legally authorized to work in the United States?

  • Yes
  • No

Do you possess a valid Driver's License or have the ability to obtain your license before October 8, 2026?

  • Yes
  • No

Please provide the state, the number and expiration date of the Driver's License.

Will you be at least 18 years of age by the anticipated orientation date of November 2, 2026?

  • Yes
  • No

Do you understand that if offered employment with the City, you are required to provide a copy of the following documents? WITH APPLICATION (Include as an attachment if applicable) -Transcript/diploma indicating highest level of education received -Any relevant certifications received from the State if applicable (i.e. NC EMT, NC Certified Firefighter, etc. ) -DD214 -JPAT completion POST-APPLICATION (You will be asked to submit before October 8, 2026) - Copy of valid Driver's License - Copy of Official High School Diploma, High School Transcript or GED Certificate - Passing score on CASAS or College English - Birth Certificate

  • Yes

Do you understand that correspondence will be sent to candidates using ONLY the e-mail address included on the application? Candidates must monitor their e-mail closely after the posted closing date and monitor the junk folder. Missed opportunities will not be rescheduled due to failure to view the correspondence. Phone calls will not be accepted or returned.

  • Yes

Do you understand that you must attend at least one of the JPAT (physicals fitness) days and successfully complete the test or provide proof of previous completion in order to be considered for hire?

  • Yes

What is your highest level of education?

  • No HS or GED
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 36+ credit hours from an accredited college or university
  • Associate Degree or 60 hours from an accredited college or university
  • Bachelor Degree or greater

Please select your participation in the Wilmington Fire Department's Junior or Citizen Fire Academy Programs Any participation indicated must have certification or documentation attached to this application.

  • None
  • I have participated in and completed the Department's Junior Fire Academy
  • I have participated in and completed the Department's Citizen's Fire Academy

Please select all certifications you currently possess. Any certifications indicated must have certification or documentation attached to this application.

  • Firefighter I
  • Firefighter II
  • EMT - Basic and above
  • Technical Rescuer
  • Driver/Operator
  • Not Applicable

If you indicated any participation or certifications listed in question #10 and #11, do you understand that you must attach supporting paperwork?

  • Yes
  • Not Applicable

How many years of full-time/career fire service experience do you possess?

  • None
  • 1 year
  • 2 years
  • 3 years
  • 4 years
  • 5 or more years

Briefly state the departments and locations where you obtained this experience. if not applicable, please write NA. Experience must be supported in application under work/employment history

How many years of volunteer or part-time fire service experience do you possess?

  • None
  • 1 year
  • 2 years
  • 3 years
  • 4 years
  • 5 or more years

Briefly state the departments and locations where you obtained this experience. if not applicable, please write NA. Experience must be supported in application under work/employment history

How many years of experience do you possess as an emergency responder outside of the fire service? Example : Rescue squad, life guard, ocean rescue, police

  • None
  • 1 year
  • 2 years
  • 3 years
  • 4 years
  • 5 or more years

Briefly state the departments and locations where you obtained this experience. if not applicable, please write NA. Experience must be supported in application under work/employment history

How many total years of professional work experience do you have?

  • None
  • 1 year
  • 2 year
  • 3 year
  • 4 year
  • 5 or more years

Briefly state where you obtained this experience. if not applicable, please write NA. Experience must be supported in application under work/employment history

How many years of experience do you possess leading or managing others?

  • NA
  • 1 year
  • 2 years
  • 3 years
  • 4 years
  • 5 or more years

Please explain the experience stated above with a brief description of the supervision responsibilities and duties assigned to you and the employer(s) this applies to. Experience must be supported in application under work/employment history

Have you completed a North Carolina secondary school program for Fire or EMT? Example : New Hanover High School Public Safety/EMT/Firefighting Technology, Garner Magnet High School Public Safety Academy, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Public Safety Program.

  • No
  • Yes

Please identify the company/agency/organization where you gained the experience described in question #23. If not applicable, write NA. Experience/completion must be supported in application under work/employment history and attachments

Have you served at least 1 year of active duty in the military with honorable discharge ? Experience must be supported in application under work/employment history and DD214 attached

  • No
  • Yes
  • Required Question
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