Employment Opportunities
Our mission is to protect people, property, and the environment, and professionally and compassionately serve the community. The Tacoma Fire Department was formed in 1880 and continues to evolve as a progressive and responsive public safety organization. If you care about our City and are interested in joining our team, you can learn more about what it takes on this page.
Current Job Openings
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If you are interested in becoming a Tacoma Fire Department Firefighter, then start preparing now! We will begin accepting applications on September 3, 2026.
We will also host in-person information sessions to answer your questions about our application process on October 14 and October 17.
To receive a notification when registration is available for our information sessions, or to get notified when we begin accepting applications, sign up here: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/tacoma/jobInterestCards/categories
Know What it Takes to Become a Tacoma Firefighter
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You must meet the following criteria to be eligible for employment with the Tacoma Fire Department:
- 18 years of age at the time of application
- Possession of a valid Washington State Driver’s License at the time of appointment
- High School diploma, GED, or equivalent
- A non-smoker/tobacco user within the last two years
Applicants must pass all portions of the selection process, which includes:
- Written examination
- Candidate Physical Abilities Test (CPAT)
- Oral examination
- Medical examination
- Background check including driving record, criminal history, credit history
Applicants must pass all portions of the selection process, which includes a background check and the following: written, physical abilities test, oral interview, and a medical physical.
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We will post date changes and update TBDs here.
- Job Announcement Opens – September 1
- Information Session #1 – October 14
- Information Session #2 – October 17 (morning)
- Information Session #3 – October 17 (afternoon)
- Job Announcement Closes – November 6
- Written Exam – December 15 & 16
- Eligibility List Established – January 2027
- Interviews – TBD
- Hiring/Recruit Academy – TBD
Who Should Apply?
We seek disciplined individuals who want to serve their community and are drawn to challenges.
The Tacoma Fire Department is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, marital status, disability status, and/or veteran status. We are made up of a highly skilled, diverse workforce. The Tacoma Fire Department values our members’ uniqueness and diversity. We believe our strength lies in our ability to reflect the community we serve.
Curious to see what the first year of TFD training looks like?
Contact
For emergencies, call 9-1-1