The Philadelphia Fire Department (PFD) last recruited firefighters between May 29, 2023 and September 29, 2023. If you want to be notified when the next application period opens, fill out a job interest form.
Recruitment period
There are several steps to becoming a firefighter. At each step of the process, some people are removed from consideration.
1. A civil service examination. High scorers on the exam will be invited to the next phase.
2. Department interviews, criminal investigations, background investigations, and a medical examination.
3. A nine-month academic, practical, and physical training program at the Philadelphia Fire Academy. At the Academy, cadets learn basic firefighting and emergency medical services.
Once a person has completed training, they are sworn in as a firefighter and assigned to an engine or ladder company. Each new firefighter must complete a six-month probationary period.
Salary and benefits
Pay increases as a firefighter’s career progresses, and opportunities for advancement become available.
Salary
The yearly salary for a firefighter recruit in the Fire Academy is $61,888. After graduating the Academy as a firefighter, you receive a pay increase. There are scheduled increases in pay to the present maximum of $85,955 a year.
Overtime is paid at the level of time and a half. There are excellent opportunities for promotion, which include a raise in salary. Firefighters are paid biweekly. Salary does not include your annual uniform allowance or holiday time.
Benefits
- Healthcare coverage
- Retirement pension
- Deferred compensation (457b plan)
- Tuition reimbursement
- Paid vacation
- Paid training
- Career advancement
Employment requirements
Residency
Due to a residency requirement enacted in 2020, you must have established residence in the City one year prior to appointment. Non-residents will not be eligible for job opportunities and will not be contacted as job opportunities arise until one year from the date that they establish residency. For additional information on residency, please contact the Office of Human Resources at hrhelpdesk@phila.gov
Education
High School graduate or GED
Physical and medical requirements
Ability to physically perform the duties and work in the environmental conditions required of the position.
Licensure
All candidates must possess a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license prior to appointment as a firefighter recruit. Anyone with a suspended or revoked license will not pass the background investigation. Any applicant who possesses outstanding fees for traffic violations in the City of Philadelphia must make payment arrangements with the Municipal Court’s Traffic Division.
Age
Applicants must be 18 years of age at the time of hire.