5th Class Firefighter – Kitchener – 2026

The City of Kitchener’s Fire Department is seeking qualified candidates for the position of 5th Class Probationary Firefighter. This is a regular full-time position based at Fire Headquarters, with the goal of establishing a pool for current and future vacancies. Kitchener Firefighters are dedicated professionals committed to serving the community through education, prevention, and emergency response.

A career as a firefighter is both challenging and rewarding, offering the chance to make a real difference in public safety. The department is looking for compassionate, customer-focused individuals who are motivated to join a respected and demanding profession. Successful candidates will participate in a recruit class beginning September 21st, with mandatory attendance throughout the duration.

Firefighting and Emergency Response:

• Respond to fire alarms and emergency calls as required.
• Perform fire suppression, rescue, and first aid operations.
• Operate firefighting and emergency equipment safely and effectively.

Public Education and Prevention:

• Participate in fire prevention activities and public education initiatives.
• Conduct fire safety inspections and deliver fire and life safety education.

Teamwork and Departmental Support:

• Work collaboratively within a team environment.
• Maintain equipment, apparatus, and fire stations in operational condition.
• Provide excellent customer service and demonstrate professionalism in all interactions.

Professional Development and Training:

• Participate in ongoing training and skill development.
• Attend mandatory recruit class and departmental training sessions.

• Valid MTO DZ class driver's license in good standing (Driver's Abstract required at interview and as a condition of employment; costs are applicant's responsibility).
• NFPA 1001-Firefighter I & II certification from a recognized pre-service Firefighter Education and Training Program or accredited institution.
• Successful completion of Stages 1 & 2 of the Ontario Fire Administration Inc. Candidate Testing Service (certification must be valid as of April 2026).
• Valid and current First Aid training equivalent to Emergency First Responder or Emergency Medical Responder and Health Care Provider CPR.
• Ability to swim.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Ability to deal with difficult individuals in a courteous and effective manner.
• Commitment to teamwork and reliability with a good attitude and employment record.
• Employment is conditional upon provision of a satisfactory and current Police Vulnerable Sector Check dated no earlier than two weeks before start date (costs are applicant's responsibility).

• Previous Firefighter experience.
• NFPA 1035 Fire and Life Safety Educator certification.
• NFPA 1031 Fire Inspector certification.
• OFAI Swim Test completion.
• Valid Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) or other proof of competency.
• Knowledge of firefighting equipment, terminology, and practice.
• Previous related work experience.
• Demonstrated community service involvement.
• Certified trade training or experience.
• Strong mechanical aptitude.
• Other relevant specialized training or qualifications.

• Employment Type: Regular Full Time
• Hours of Work: 42.12 per week
• Location: Fire Headquarters
• Pay: $65,798 to $71,779 annually
• Grade/Band: 6110
• Department: CSD-Community Services Department, Fire Division
• Union: Kitchener Fire Fighters Association
• Number of Openings: 9
• Job Posting Dates: Start: 4/21/26, End: 5/3/26
• Interviews: Will take place from June 1-12, 2026
• Recruit Class: Begins September 21st with mandatory attendance and no scheduled absences.
• Application Instructions: Must apply online. Cover letter and resume combined should not exceed three pages and must be in the required format (Work Experience, General Education, Community Involvement/Volunteer Experience, Fire Related Education and Courses with certification dates).