Join Boise Fire Department

Sign up for the Boise Fire Recruitment e-Newsletter

2024-2025 Entry Level Firefighter Recruitment Opening Summer 2024!

See More Information BelowStay Connected on Social or sign up for the RECRUITMENT newsletter
Firefighter attaches hose to fire hydrant

Ignite a passion, Find your purpose

Firefighting is a career like no other. It takes extreme dedication, both physically and emotionally. By becoming a firefighter, you will gain a fulfilling, lifelong career with a close team environment and excellent benefits.

Currently, the Boise Fire Department has over 300 full time employees, 17 Fire Stations, a Hazardous Materials Team, ARFF team, Dive Team and a Technical Rescue Team. The Department serves a population of more than 300,000 residents over 130 square miles in Boise and surrounding areas.

Who We Are

We are a proud team of firefighters with diverse experiences who stands behind a common mission to serve our community. We are seeking people who are passionate to answer this call.

Our Vision

Strive to be leaders in public safety, employee wellness, professional advancements and community connection.

Our Mission

Respond to the community with pride, service and dedication.

Our Values

  • Professionalism
  • Respect
  • Integrity
  • Dedication
  • Excellence

Recruiting Process

Just like the fire industry, our recruiting process is unique and extremely competitive.

  1. Apply during open recruiting windows (typically annually)
    When the hiring window is open, you may apply online. 2023-2024 Entry Level Firefighter Recruitment is now CLOSED. Applications for the 2024-2025 recruit academy will begin around Summer 2024.
  2. Written Exam
    All applicable applicants are invited to then pay for and schedule their written exam date and time.
  3. Oral Interview
    Candidates with the highest combined scores from the written exam and oral interview will be extended a conditional job offer.
  4. Physical Fitness Test
    Candidates are then expected to pass the physical fitness test which consists of a 1.5 mile run to be completed in under 11 minutes and 30 seconds.

The number of candidates hired for recruit academy varies each year depending on many factors such as retirements and city growth. The city may maintain an active waiting list from which to hold recruits for mid-cycle hiring as needed.

Entry-Level Recruits FAQs

Connect with the Boise Fire Recruitment Team

Qualifications

Entry Level Firefighter

Minimum qualifications for a firefighter position:

  • At least 18 years of age
  • Possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent
  • Possess a valid driver’s license
  • Possess a current National Registry or state-issued EMT Basic Certification by date of interview, with the ability to obtain reciprocity in Idaho within 120 days of employment and maintain certification.
  • Ability to meet physically demanding standards

Applicants MUST NOT:

  • Have any felony convictions over the age of 18
  • Have any visible tattoos above the collar of a standard short-sleeved t-shirt


Background Investigations Regulation

Silhouette of firefighter standing in a plume of smoke near building

Fire Culture

Firefighting is a rewarding career aimed at protecting life and property and improving the community served. Firefighters put their life and safety on the line to protect the community by facing hazardous tasks under extreme pressure. They must work cooperatively as a team and possess courage, stamina and professionalism. It is a challenging and exciting career, which offers great pay and exceptional benefits, opportunities for advancement and a family for life.

Work Schedule

After successfully completing Academy, our firefighters work 48 hour shifts on duty, followed by 96 hours off.

Women in Fire

Women bring unique abilities and critical qualifications to the fire service. Women interested in a career in fire are encouraged to apply. In the U.S., around 6,200 women currently work as full-time, career firefighters and officers. Several hundred hold the rank of lieutenant or captain, and about 150 are district chiefs, battalion chiefs, division chiefs, or assistant chiefs (Source: Women in Fire & Emergency Services).

Physical Fitness

Strength and fitness preparation is a crucial step in the successful completion of the physical demands of the Boise Fire Academy. Below are some resources for advanced physical training in targeted areas. Please understand that these resources are only a recommendation and will not guarantee employment. 

Boise Firefighter Salary Schedule

Stay Connected -

Message Sent Successfully!

Message Failed To Send.

Send a Message to Fire

If this is an emergency, please call 911.

Thank you for contacting the Boise Fire Department. In-person services are limited. Please fill out the form below and we will provide you with the best and most timely assistance.