Volunteer firefighter recruitment

Applications are now closed for the Fall 2022 campaign.

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

Applications are accepted year-round. Submit a volunteer firefighter application to be considered for the Spring 2023 session.

The application process consists of 3 stages:

1. Prerequisites
2. Interview
3. Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)

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

Stage 1: Prerequisites

Security check

A current vulnerable sector criminal record check

Driver profile/abstract

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

Stage 2: Interview

Interviews are scheduled as required.

Stage 3: 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