Volunteer firefighter recruitment

Applications are now open for the Fall 2022 campaign and will be accepted until end of day Sunday June 19, 2022.

Please note: Ottawa Fire Services accepts volunteer firefighter applications year-round. Successful candidates will be contacted for fall or spring sessions.

Volunteer firefighters are compensated for attending training, emergencies, and station duties.

Volunteer firefighters are responsible for a variety of duties including, but not limited to:

• Responding to calls for rescue and fire emergencies which may include working within hazardous environments when fighting fires, taking part in several rescue scenarios, and administering medical aid
• Participating in regular training and maintenance work of the fire station and equipment
• Working within a chain of command management structure, making decisions as well as to adhering to orders and direction
• Participating in public education opportunities and supporting local community events

• All applicants must be 18 years or older at time of application
• All applicants must have a valid G Ontario driver’s license at time of application
• All applicants must live or work in an area served by a volunteer fire station

Before you begin

As part of the application package, please include the following

• Copy of your résumé/CV
• Cover letter
• Copy of any relevant certificates and/or diplomas

Apply

Volunteer firefighter applications are now open for the Fall 2022 campaign and will be accepted until end of day Sunday June 19, 2022.

The process consists of 3 stages:

1. 1. Application
   2. Prerequisites
   3. Interview

Successful candidates will receive a letter of offer once all 3 stages are completed and documentation is received.

Stage 1: Application

Application forms are accepted throughout the year and kept on file. Applicants are selected from those who work or live in close proximity to the volunteer stations with vacancies.

Stage 2: Prerequisites

Stage 2 consists of three prerequisites: 

• Security check
• Driver profile
• Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)

Security check

A current vulnerable sector criminal record check

Driver profile/abstract

A 5-year abstract, available at any Service Ontario Center

Candidate physical ability test (CPAT)

All volunteer firefighter candidates are expected to complete the candidate physical ability test. A CPAT preparation guide is available to assist candidates to be physically prepared for the test.

CPAT process:

1. Orientation for candidate physical ability test (orientation sessions are scheduled on weekends and evenings to accommodate the volunteer candidates)
2. Medical clearance form completed by a physician

Stage three: Interview

Interviews are scheduled as required.