Sign up for notifications regarding any future openings
Portland Fire & Rescue hires entry-level and lateral firefighters. Applicants must meet all minimum requirements to apply for all positions. A minimum of an Emergency Medical Technican license is required before an offer of employment.
Entry Level Firefighter Application Process
The City of Portland's application process for entry-level firefighters consists of multiple phases. The number and order of phases are subject to change without prior notice. For each application process, the examination phases will be listed on the official job announcement. Only applicants who pass each phase of the examination will be invited to continue.
The recruitment process may include:
- Submit online application (must meet all specified minimum requirements)
- Written Test
- Physical Test
- Panel Interview
- Background Investigation Process
- Fire Chief panel interview
- Pre-Employment Medical Examination (NFPA 1582)
Subject to change without prior notice.
The Written Exam
The National Testing Network will administer the written examination. The job announcement will provide full details.
Physical Agility Test
Portland Fire & Rescue accepts the Candidate Physical Abilities Test (CPAT) for entry-level firefighter recruitments. Full details will be provided in the job announcement. The CPAT may be completed at any authorized facility, and not exclusively with the National Testing Network. Locally, Public Safety Testing is an authorized facility. Public Safety Testing - Firefighter CPAT
The Panel Interview
Full details regarding oral interviews will be included in the job announcement.
Background Investigation Process
This includes work history, character and employment references, driving record, criminal history, a review of required documents, and a list of questions regarding your personal profile. Candidates in this step of the selection process must provide complete and accurate information to avoid concerns about omissions or minimization of information.
How do I apply for Oregon reciprocity?
Find more information:
How long does it take to complete reciprocity for my EMT or Paramedic certificate?
Depending on the backlog, this can take several weeks or longer. Contact the Oregon Health Authority for more information.
Should I apply even if I only have my National Registry certification and not an Oregon EMT/Paramedic?
Yes, please apply and inquire with the Oregon Health Authority if you meet all the requirements to apply for Oregon reciprocity. Candidates must submit proof of an Oregon EMT before a conditional offer of employment. Learn more here.
Should I apply if I am a paramedic with no fire department experience?
Yes. Job announcements will have details on the requirements for applying.
What role do paramedics hold in Portland Fire and Rescue?
All Portland firefighters are certified as either EMTs or paramedics. They respond together to a wide variety of calls, including fire, medical, hazardous materials, vehicle crashes, etc.
What is the pay for a paramedic?
With considerations for step increases and completed benchmarks, paramedics receive 13% of the top step firefighter pay rate as of July 1, 2024. Find more info on Page 23 of the City of Portland Compensation Plan.
Does Portland Fire and Rescue cover continued paramedic education while employed with the department?
Yes, plus any license requirements.
Firefighter Recruitment Notification List
FF Recruitment Notification List
Resources & Additional Information
Find resources Information on PF&R grooming standards, environmental conditions faced by firefighters, where to obtain EMT training, Statement of Personal History form, and the Public Employee Retirement System.
Firefighter Training Academy
Questions?
For additional information or if you have questions, contact PF&R's Recruiting Officer at firerecruiter@portlandoregon.gov