Probationary Firefighter – St. Catharines – 2025

The City of St. Catharines is seeking dedicated individuals to join its Fire Fighters Association Local 485 as Probationary Firefighters. As part of a dynamic and supportive team, you will play a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. This is a permanent, full-time, in-person position located in St. Catharines, ON.

This opportunity will allow you to contribute to a city committed to innovation, sustainability, and care, while benefiting from professional development, competitive pay, and meaningful work that impacts generations to come.

Core Firefighting and Emergency Response:

• Respond to fire emergencies, alarms, and hazardous situations as required.
• Perform fire suppression, rescue, and emergency medical services.
• Operate firefighting apparatus and equipment safely and efficiently.
• Conduct search and rescue operations in various environments.
• Provide first aid and Basic Life Support at emergency scenes.

Fire Prevention and Community Safety:

• Participate in fire prevention, public education, and community outreach initiatives.
• Inspect, maintain, and test firefighting equipment and vehicles.

Training and Professional Development:

• Attend and participate in ongoing training sessions and drills.
• Maintain certifications and continuously improve firefighting skills.

Team and Administrative Responsibilities:

• Work collaboratively within a team environment and under the direction of supervisors.
• Complete required documentation and reports accurately and promptly.
• Comply with all departmental policies, procedures, and safety regulations.

Education and Certifications:

• Grade 12 Diploma.
• NFPA 1001 Standard for Firefighter Professional Qualification Firefighter Level 1 & Firefighter Level 2 Certification.
• Standard First Aid Level C (valid and non-expired by application date).
• Basic Life Support (BLS) Provider certification (valid and non-expired by application date).

Licensing:

• Valid Class "D" Ontario Driver's Licence with "Z" Endorsement, or other Licence Classification allowing driving in Class D (including Class A, B, or C with Z Air Brake Endorsement).

Other Requirements:

• Successful completion of Phase 1 (Fire Services of Ontario screening).
• Completion of the Ministry of Labour’s Worker Health and Safety Awareness training (upon selection).
• Proof of educational credentials upon request.

Additional Education and Experience:

• Post-secondary education.
• Trades qualifications.
• Additional education or training related to fire or emergency services.

Pay Rate: $70,415.15 (July 1, 2023 Rates)

Hours & Schedule: Variable per week, variable schedule

Location: St. Catharines, ON (In Person)

Employee Group: Fire Fighters Association Local 485

Position Type: Permanent, Full-time

Duration: Ongoing

Posting Close Date: October 13, 2025

Benefits and Perks:

• Enrollment in the OMERS pension plan with matched contributions
• Competitive pay and certified Ontario Living Wage Employer
• Health, dental, and vision benefits (for eligible employees)
• Training and development funds
• Supportive team and leadership
• Hybrid work environment flexibility (for eligible employees)

Application Process:

• Online applications accepted ONLY from September 22, 2025 to October 13, 2025.
• Applicants must complete the online application and attach a resume.
• Only those considered for participation in the next phase will be contacted via email by Human Resources.
• Applicants are responsible for costs associated with the Fire Fighter Screening Test and application process.

Equity, Diversity, and Accessibility:

• The City of St. Catharines is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive, accessible, and respectful work environment.
• Accommodations are available in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the AODA.
• Individuals from all backgrounds, experiences, and education levels are encouraged to apply.

Additional Notes:

• Unionized roles are subject to collective agreement requirements.
• Interviews may be conducted via video conferencing or in person; assessments may be part of the selection process.
• No artificial intelligence (AI) technology is used in the recruitment process.
• Personal information collected is used solely for determining suitability for employment as authorized by The Municipal Act.