Firefighter Recruit – GTAA – 2026

The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) is a unique and dynamic place to work, with a bold plan to make Toronto Pearson, Canada’s leading global hub airport, a global leader in airport performance, customer care and sustainability. Together with our partners, approximately 2,100 GTAA employees are working to create a next-generation airport by innovating in all we do and striving for the most uplifting, safe and efficient experience for our passengers – all while championing the prosperity of our people, the community we call home, and our aviation partners. Join us on our journey together, as we put the joy back into travel and make Toronto Pearson the chosen place to fly and work.

A career as a GTAA firefighter is both complicated and rewarding. Working under the general direction of the Fire Chief and supported by a dynamic leadership team, firefighters are located in one of three fire stations that provide emergency response at Toronto Pearson International Airport. On average, firefighters respond to approximately 5500 emergency incidents annually. All firefighters at the GTAA are members of the Pearson Airport Professional Firefighters' Association, Local 4382, International Association of Firefighters (IAFF).

This full-time, on-site Firefighter Recruit position is classified at the “Firefighter Recruit” level. The recruitment process includes assessments and a panel interview, which will be administered only to selected applicants.

As a Firefighter Recruit, you will:

• Fight fires and respond to medical emergencies and technical rescues (ropes, confined spaces, motor vehicle collisions).
• Perform fire ground and rescue operations for structural and aircraft emergencies.
• Educate the public about fire prevention and fire safety practices.
• Respond to hazardous materials emergencies.
• Conduct inspections.
• Maintain firefighting apparatus, equipment and fire stations.
• Work and support as a member of the larger Fire and Emergency Services team.
• Perform Pre-Incident Planning.
• Perform other projects and duties as assigned.

This is the role for you, if you have:

• Pre-Requisite Firefighter Training verification of one of the following components:
  • OFM/OAFC Pre-Service Firefighter Education and Training Program Certificate or approved equivalent NFPA-1001 level 1 & 2, IFSAC, Pro-Board, IFE; or
  • Ontario Firefighter Certification with firefighting experience; or
  • Previous experience as a full-time certified firefighter; and
  • NFPA-472 or 1072, Hazardous Materials Operations level certification (including mission Specific PPE and Mission Specific Product Control), IFSAC, Pro-Board, IFE);
• A valid Ontario unrestricted Class “D” driver's license or higher (A, B, or C) with “Z” air brake endorsement.
• A minimum of a Secondary School Diploma (Grade 12 or academic equivalent).
• A valid Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) and Level C CPR certificate. Candidates who currently hold an Advanced Medical Care Assistant (A-EMCA) certification will be considered as it exceeds the EMR competency level.
• A valid OFAI Candidate Testing Service certificate (Stages 1, 2, and 3) which must be current and valid upon the posting closing of November 23, 2026 and at time of a conditional offer.
• Ability to obtain and retain a Transportation Canada Security Clearance.

Knowledge and skill you bring, that set-you up for success:

• Ability to demonstrate a high standard of professionalism and ability to solve complex problems.
• Ability to demonstrate leadership; work collectively as a member of dynamic team.
• Ability to communicate effectively both writing and verbally; have a high attention to detail.
• Ability to understand and communicate clearly in English under stressful conditions.
• Ability to work a 24-hour shift (weekdays, weekends and statutory holidays).
• Proficiency in computer applications such as Microsoft Word and Outlook and basic skills in Excel.
• Excellent interpersonal, customer approach and organizational/time management skills.
• Physical fitness to handle the sustained, driven, physical effort required to perform their duties.
• Ability to demonstrate integrity, character, positivity, is team oriented, genuine and considerate.

Candidates with relevant external experience must provide references with their applications in order to confirm this experience.

Posting Details:

• Posted on: November 3, 2026
• Location: GTAA, 3111 Convair Drive, P.O.Box 6031, Toronto, ON L5P1B2, CAN
• Work Type: On-site, Full-Time
• Category: Airport Operations
• Requisition #: FIREF005276

Salary and Hours:

• Classified at the “Firefighter Recruit” level, with an annual wage of $76,710.25, based on a 42-hour work week.

What's in it for you!

As a GTAA employee, you’ll have access to amazing benefits, including retirement planning, comprehensive group health benefits, an employee assistance programs (EAP), paid leave, education and training, as well as recognition and rewards programs.

Hiring Process:

The following steps outline the key requirements of the Toronto Pearson Fire and Emergency Services firefighter hiring process. While these steps are subject to change, they are provided to give applicants a general overview of what to expect.

Applicants will progress through the process based on their individual completion of each stage. Only selected candidates will move forward through the various stages of the process. Specific dates and instructions will be communicated directly to those candidates.

All dates and testing steps are subject to change.

1. Online Application: including resume and cover letter in one single PDF document
2. Resume Screening: to ensure minimum qualifications are met.
3. Psychometric testing: to evaluate cognitive abilities and personality traits
4. Video Screening Interview with Human Resources: a preliminary video interview designed to assess your initial qualifications, experience, and overall fit for the role.
5. Panel Interview to evaluate skills, traits and competencies.
6. Job Offer; Steps 7 and 8 begin once acceptance is received
7. Pre-Employment Comprehensive Medical Assessment (GTAA Functional Testing, Drug and Alcohol testing, Medical Testing Services, Respiratory Testing, Bloodwork, Medical Lab Services, Physician Medical)
8. Background, Criminal Record, Driver’s Abstract, Employment and Refence Checks

How to Apply:

To be considered for this position, please submit an application online including a resume and cover letter as a single PDF document by November 27, 2026 at 5:00 pm. Your resume and cover letter should clearly outline how your skills, education, and experience align with the qualifications for this role.

Candidates applying to the Toronto Pearson Fire and Emergency Service are strongly advised to review the Application and Hiring Guide. This document contains all the necessary details regarding the recruitment process.

The GTAA is committed to Employment Equity and maintaining a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.