Firefighter

Make the move to the Portage Department of Public Safety- Fire Division and be part of a team that enhances safety in our community through compassionate care, professionalism, technical competency, and a servant’s heart while upholding our core values of accountability, honor and respect, communication and teamwork, and integrity. Come work with a career department that offers competitive wages, strong benefits, ongoing training, the experience of working with like-minded team members whose vision is to provide the highest quality of service, and the opportunity for special teams!

What You'll Do:

• Respond to EMS calls and fire alarms.
• Perform technical rescues commensurate with the level of training and certification.
• Control and extinguish fires, protecting life and property.
• Conduct fire code inspections of commercial properties.
• Maintain and operate Fire Division apparatus and equipment.
• Conduct public education and public outreach.
• Complete training and continuing education necessary to maintain or improve essential skills and maintain licenses or certifications.

 Required:

• Be State of Michigan certified in Firefighter I & II with HazMat Operations.
• Possess a State of Michigan MFR license (at minimum), EMT-B preferred.
• Be 18 years of age with a high school diploma or GED.
• Possess a valid driver's license with a good record.
• Have the ability to pass a background check.
• Have the ability to pass a post-offer pre-employment physical with alcohol/drug screen (that includes marijuana).
• Have the ability to pass a post-offer pre-employment psychological examination.
• Must live in a county that connects to Kalamazoo County by the end of probation at 1 year.

Candidates who meet the qualifications will receive an email inviting them to register for the written exam.   A study guide is available for purchase through the testing company. The entry-level firefighter exam will be held Wednesday, September 16th, at 6:00 P.M. This exam will be by invitation only.  The last day to register for the written exam is Monday, September 14, or until all available testing slots are filled, whichever occurs first. 

Why Join Us?

• We offer ongoing training and development.
• We are an all-hazard fire department.
• New PFAS-free turnout gear.
• Additional department section-work available: buildings, apparatus, small tools, SCBA, fire extinguishers, and more.
• The annual starting rate is $58,911.51 with excellent benefits.

Here is How to Join Us:

• Apply online at www.portagemi.gov/200/Employment or in person at Portage City Hall/Human Resources. 7900 S. Westnedge Avenue. 
• Firefighter I & II/HazMat Operations certifications and Michigan MFR, EMT, or Paramedic licenses must be attached to the application for verification.
• Questions? Contact Human Resources at (269)329-4533 or text (269)998-1385.

Additional Information

• IAFF Local No. 1467 Collective Bargaining Agreement

 Equal Employment Opportunity

It is the policy of the city to afford equal employment opportunity regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, marital status, height, weight, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity; Positive action shall be taken to ensure the fulfillment of this policy.