Hernando County, FL
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Become a Firefighter
HCFR Fire Rescue Trainee Program
Hernando County Fire Rescue recognizes the state-wide shortage of firefighter candidates and has created this position to allow civilians interested in a career in the fire service and opportunity to obtain experience and training that would otherwise not be available. Applicants will work in any of the divisions within the department as a regular-class civilian employee. During the span of their temporary employment, they will attend courses and fire academy to enable them to obtain both Florida Firefighter II Compliance and Licensure as a Florida Emergency Medical Technician.
Next Application Period Opens Spring of 2025
CLICK HERE TO VIEW JOB DESCRIPTION:
Requirements to apply are:
Education
- High School graduate or equivalent (GED)
- Eligible to apply for both Florida Firefighter Academy and Emergency Medical Technician Program.
Experience
- Entry Level – No experience required.
Licenses and Certifications
- Must possess and maintain: a valid Florida Driver’s License and be insurable by current insurance carrier.
- Must be able to pass a background check and physical.
- Within 1 year of employment, the Trainee must obtain both Florida Firefighter II Compliance and State of Florida Emergency Medical Technician Licensure to be transferred to a permanent position in the Operations Division.
- Upon obtaining qualifications and transferring to the Operations Division, the employee shall be subject to a 3-year employment contract.
Required Competencies
- Knowledge of general math, business English and spelling.
- Ability to operate department vehicles to deliver equipment and supplies.
- Ability to understand and follow moderately complex oral and written instructions.
- Ability to perform moderate physical labor and lifting, up to 80 pounds.
- Ability to communicate orally and in writing.
- Ability to comprehend and follow policies, procedures, and practices relative to Hernando County Fire Rescue and the Hernando County Board of County Commissioners purchasing functions.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and vendors.
If you are unable to apply or are not accepted into the program but still seek a career in the fire service, the following links can guide you to obtain certification training on your own.
Links to the State of Florida Firefighter requirements and local training centers.
Bureau of Fire Standards and Training | Florida's State Fire Marshal (myfloridacfo.com)