Description
The Saanich Fire Department and Oak Bay Fire Department are jointly recruiting qualified and motivated individuals to join their professional firefighting teams for the 2025 intake. Both departments deliver comprehensive emergency services including fire suppression, rescue, hazardous materials response, and medical aid.
This streamlined recruitment process allows for applications to be considered for either department, with placement dependent on operational needs. Successful candidates will receive training in the latest firefighting, rescue, and emergency response techniques, and join a customer-focused and well-supported team.
Duties and Responsibilities
Core Responsibilities:
- Respond to fire emergencies and perform fire suppression tasks
- Conduct rescues in various situations (e.g., vehicle, water, confined space, hazardous materials)
- Provide medical aid as a licensed first responder, EMR, PCP, or ACP
- Operate and maintain firefighting equipment and vehicles
- Participate in ongoing training and professional development
- Engage in public education and fire prevention activities
- Perform routine fire station duties, including cleaning and maintenance
- Conduct fire inspections and assist with fire investigations
- Participate in team-based emergency response and station activities
Recruitment Process Participation:
- Complete written aptitude/psychometric testing
- Participate in interviews and team-based assessments
- Demonstrate physical fitness and dexterity through job-related exercises
- Engage in ride-along evaluations (Saanich only)
- Undergo medical and fitness evaluations as per NFPA standards
Minimum Qualifications
Education and Legal Status:
- Grade 12 diploma or GED equivalent
- Canadian citizenship, permanent resident, or landed immigrant status (work visa not accepted)
Licenses and Certifications (by December 15, 2025):
- NFPA 1001 Firefighter Level I & II (IFSAC or ProBoard seals)
- Valid BC Emergency Medical Assistance Licensing Board (EMALB) Licence in one of the following:
- First Responder (FR) with schedule two endorsements
- Emergency Medical Responder (EMR)
- Primary Care Paramedic (PCP)
- Advance Care Paramedic (ACP)
- Valid Class 3 Driver's License with air brake endorsement (or equivalent)
Documentation:
- Current Driver’s Abstract (dated within 30 days of application deadline; more than 6 points may disqualify)
- Proof of completion or proof of registration for required certifications by deadline
Before Eligibility List Placement:
- Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector clearance
- Proof of completion of an approved Firefighter Fitness Evaluation (University of Victoria Fire Test or equivalent)
Preferred Qualifications
Additional Skills and Experience:
- Advanced fire service training (e.g., hazmat, auto extrication, rope rescue, confined space, water/ice rescue)
- Post-secondary education (academic or trades)
- Paramedic licensing (PCP/ACP)
- Volunteer, military, or other emergency services experience
- Mechanical, construction, or heavy equipment operator experience
- Coaching, teaching, or instructional background
- Community service or volunteerism
- Second language proficiency and cultural awareness
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team environment
Additional Information
Application Process: All applications must be submitted electronically as a single PDF or up to 3 files (max 50 MB). Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered. Include all required documentation in the specified order.
- Recruitment consists of multiple stages: application, written testing, interviews, agility/dexterity tests, ride-along (Saanich only), suitability interview, fitness and medical evaluation, and employment offer.
- Testing fee applies for written assessment (approx. $415 + GST; non-refundable, subject to change).
- Applicants must provide proof of required qualifications/certifications by the specified deadline.
- Agility and medical evaluations must meet NFPA 1582 standards; medical exam costs are the responsibility of the applicant.
- Eligibility pools may be established; placement does not guarantee employment.
- All applicants will be notified by email of status after Stage 1. Ensure your email address is valid and current.
- Automatic confirmation email upon successful application submission.
Contact: For inquiries, refer to each department’s HR or Fire Administration office. Applications accepted during intake periods only.