AKRON, Ohio — The City of Akron announced on Monday that it is currently accepting applications for new firefighters and medics.
Applications are due by January 20, 2023, with the exam taking place in mid-February. The list of candidates who apply during the current application period will be valid for hire for the next two years.
“We are looking to recruit and hire the most talented people to join our team and to serve the Akron community,” Akron Fire Chief Joseph Natko said in a statement. “I whole-heartedly believe we have one of the best fire departments in the state and we are aiming to recruit a diverse group of candidates who reflect the community we serve to join us and make our team even better. The position of an Akron Firefighter requires integrity, intelligence, and most importantly the heart to help others and to be a part of an organization that we all take pride in.”
Minimal requirements for hiring are as follows:
- Between the ages of 18-35 on day of written exam (mid-February)
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid Driver’s License with no more than 6 points on their license
According to a release, the starting pay for an Akron firefighter/medic is $29.30 per hour (annual starting salary of $61,214.40). The position also offers a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life.
Hired candidates will proceed to go through the Akron Fire Academy, which lasts 12-14 weeks, and will be paid during that time. Hired candidates who are not certified as an EMT or Paramedic will also be required to obtain those certifications at some point following the Fire Academy.
A typical schedule for an Akron firefighter/medic is a 24-hour on-duty shift, which is then followed by 48 hours off-duty, averaging out to nine working days a month (108 days per year.)
More information can be found at joinakronfire.com.
Editor's note: the videos included in this story are from previous stories.