Work Experience Firefighter – Grand Forks – 2026

Position Overview

The Work Experience Program (WEP) Firefighter is a 12-month developmental position designed for individuals pursuing a career in the fire service. This program provides hands-on operational experience, structured training, and exposure to all core functions of a modern fire department, while operating within a Paid-On-Call compensation model.

WEP Firefighters train, respond, and integrate as active members of Grand Forks Fire Rescue, gaining real-world experience in emergency response, fire prevention, and public education.

Program Timeline

• Application Deadline: April 10, 2026

• Interviews: Late April – Early May 2026

• Program Start Date: June 1, 2026

Only candidates selected through the interview process will be offered placement in the program.

Emergency Response

• Respond to fire, rescue, and medical incidents

• Combat, control, and extinguish fires

• Perform search and rescue operations

• Operate firefighting equipment including hoses, ladders, SCBA, and tools

• Ventilate structures and perform salvage operations

Training & Development

• Participate in all scheduled training sessions and drills

• Participate in daily training drills as scheduled

• Maintain competency in firefighting skills and equipment use

• Work toward required certifications, including emergency medical licensing if not already obtained

Fire Prevention & Public Education

• Assist with public education initiatives and community outreach

• Support fire inspections and pre-fire planning

• Promote fire safety within the community

Station & Equipment Duties

• Maintain fire hall cleanliness and operational readiness

• Inspect, clean, and maintain apparatus and equipment

• Complete assigned daily station duties and routines

Operational Readiness

• Participate in scheduled duty shifts on a rotating basis

• Reside in Grand Forks for the duration of the program

• Maintain personal protective equipment in a ready state

• Report for duty in proper uniform and prepared for response

Program Commitments

• 12-month program commitment

• Participation in weekly training (Wednesday nights) and emergency response

• Availability for assigned duty shifts

• Adherence to all department rules, regulations, and professional conduct expectations

Applicants must meet the following at time of application:

• Canadian citizen or landed immigrant

• Age 18–60

• Valid medical clearance (Fit Test / CPAT or equivalent)

• Valid driver’s licence with acceptable abstract

• Air brake endorsement

• NFPA 1001 Level II (or equivalent)

• Clean criminal record suitable for a position of public trust

• Vision and hearing meeting required standards

• Advanced First Aid or EMR certification

• Previous firefighting or emergency services experience

• Class 1 or 3 Driver’s Licence

• Mechanical aptitude or trades experience

• Post-secondary education

• Wildland firefighting certifications

Physical Requirements

Candidates must demonstrate:

• Strong physical fitness and endurance

• Ability to perform strenuous tasks under adverse conditions

• Ability to lift, carry, drag, climb, and operate equipment safely

• Capacity to perform effectively under pressure in dynamic environments

Work Environment

• Emergency response environment with exposure to physical, mental, and environmental stressors

• Shift-based participation including evenings and weekends

• Dorm styled living space at the firehall

• High-performance team environment requiring discipline, accountability, and teamwork

Compensation

• WEP Firefighters receive a training stipend for participation in the program

• Members are compensated at the Paid-On-Call rate for:

  • Weekly scheduled training sessions (Wednesday nights)

  • Emergency incidents attended

• This program is a development opportunity and does not constitute full-time employment

Why Join the WEP?

• Gain real-world firefighting and emergency response experience

• Build certifications and strengthen your resume for a career in the fire service

• Train and respond alongside experienced firefighters

• Develop discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills

• Serve your community in a meaningful and impactful way