Firefighter – Halifax – 2021

Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency (HRFE) is inviting applications for the development of a candidate pool for permanent full-time career Firefighters.  The consideration for hire pool will be in effect from August 2021 until March 31, 2023. HRFE has the option to extend this hire pool for up to one year past the expiration date based on operational requirements. The deadline to apply for this opportunity is 11:59 p.m. Atlantic Time on Sunday, February 21, 2021.

HRFE is committed to being the best Fire & Emergency service and reflective of the diverse communities we serve. The recruitment and selection process includes; aptitude testing, physical abilities testing, background screening and a panel interview. The skills, abilities and competencies measured through each of these phases are in alignment with the requirements for the position of firefighter. Candidates must demonstrate competence and proficiency at each stage in order to advance.

The Halifax Regional Municipality strives to create a diverse and inclusive work environment. Its goal of a strong and diverse workforce that accurately represents the communities it serves will capitalize on the strength and talent of those communities. As such, we encourage applications from African Nova Scotians, racially visible persons, women (applying for non-traditional positions), persons with disabilities, Aboriginal persons and persons of the LGBTQ+ community. HRM encourages applicants to self-identify.

A career as Firefighter is both challenging and rewarding, offering individuals the opportunity to serve their community while working as a member of a highly skilled professional team.  HRFE is dedicated to enhancing and preserving the quality of life, property and environment, through leadership, partnership and effective response to emergencies.  Under the direction of the Station Officer, the Firefighter is responsible for firefighting, rescue, emergency medical, and other related services. The Firefighter also participates in fire prevention and public safety education programs and activities.

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Proof of Grade 12 education or equivalent.  You must attach one of the following documents, with your application:
  • Grade 12 Diploma
  • GED Certificate/Diploma
  • Diploma or Certificate from a post-secondary educational institute; where proof of completion of Grade 12 or equivalent was required prior to acceptance.
• Nova Scotia Class 5 Driver’s License (or equivalent from another province) demonstrating a safe and responsible driving record.  You are not required to submit a drivers abstract with your application.  This will be verified later in the selection process.
• Candidates must complete security/background screening. For more information, please visit www.halifax.ca/firerecruitment. You are not required to submit these documents with your application.  They will be verified later in the process.
• Successful candidates must be able to communicate effectively in English. These skills will be assessed as you move through the competition. Further assessment of language proficiency may be required.
• Must be 18 years of age or older at the time of application.
• Legally entitled to work in Canada.

• We do not practice lateral transfers.  Current IAFF members will not retain seniority or rank if hired as a career firefighter by HRFE.
• All applicants will commence as a Firefighter 4th Class.  Salary level is in accordance with the provisions of IAFF Local 268 Collective Agreement ($49,132 starting salary).
• All new hires, upon successful completion of HRFE career firefighter training requirements, will be assigned to an E Platoon fire station based on operational needs.  E Platoon shift is 4 days per week between Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., 42 hours per week.
• Additional details regarding the recruitment and selection process and Frequently Asked Questions may be found at www.halifax.ca/firerecruitment. Any questions not addressed on the website may be directed to [email protected]

HRM takes the health and safety of its job applicants and employees seriously. Where possible, recruitment testing and interviews will be done by way of phone, video conference, or other virtual means. For this recruitment process, the Physical Fitness Testing phase will require your in-person participation. Candidates invited to this stage will be provided with an overview of our organization’s COVID-19 related safety measures and candidates will be required to complete a self-assessment. For questions, please contact your HR representative or [email protected]

During the recruitment process, applicants have the right to request accommodation.  Applicants invited to participate in an assessment process (such as an interview or testing) and who require accommodation, should discuss their needs with the Recruiter when invited to the assessment process.