Student Firefighter

Work to pay your way through College

Student Firefighters are required to pass Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) and interview for the position. Selected candidates will then attend a 17-week recruit-training academy, which includes Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) - Basic as well as Firefighter I and II. The academy is rigorous, hands-on, and demanding both academically and physically.

Students who graduate are assigned to fire companies based on order of merit of graduation and need of the Fire Department. Upon assignment to a fire company, Student Firefighters are responsible for fire suppression, rescue, prevention activities and other duties as assigned. They work under the direct supervision of an experienced Lieutenant. Student Firefighters typically work 24-hour shifts every third day, with time off during the shift to attend class, for a maximum of 96 hours worked every two weeks. For more information, please view our brochure.

Program Criteria

• After training, Student Firefighters must be full-time (12 semester hours) college students for all but one academic term of any academic year.
• Students must maintain a minimum of a 2.0 Grade Point Average (GPA) to remain in the program.
• Students must earn a 2.5 GPA or higher for the semester to earn tuition reimbursement.
• Fire program candidates must display levels of physical fitness required to perform firefighting duties.

Benefits

• Pay for hours worked and training.
• Paid tuition if assigned to a shift and earning a 2.5 GPA (semester) or higher.
• Step raises for longevity and acquiring advanced proficiencies/technical skills.
• Gain valuable workplace experience.
• Dorm space for living in a fire station if space is available.
• Uniforms and equipment are furnished for those whose duties require them.
• Training for required skills and advancement.
• Other benefits established by City policy.

Testimonies

Graduates of the program are now working in careers and locations throughout the world. Some of the graduates are serving as military officers. Many are successful business persons, teachers, and current City of Auburn employees. While others are attending or have recently completed professional schooling. In each case, they carry knowledge about how local government works, an appreciation for having materially contributed to their own education costs, experience in demanding yet rewarding work, and the feeling of having successfully done important work in making their college town a better as well as safer place to live.