Fire department careers

Learn how to apply for firefighter positions with Wrenford Fire Rescue, including requirements, hiring dates, and fitness tests.

About Wrenford Fire Rescue

Wrenford Fire Rescue protects more than 92,000 residents across six wards and five fire stations. We respond to over 11,000 fire and medical calls each year. Our crews work on a 24-hour shift rotation, giving you time off to rest and recharge. Led by Chief Darren MacAulay and supported by Deputy Fire Chief Simon Hartley, our department is committed to prevention, protection, and professionalism.

What you will do

Firefighters in Wrenford do much more than put out fires. You will provide emergency medical care, respond to hazardous material incidents, conduct fire prevention inspections, and teach community safety programs. You will also maintain equipment and train continuously to keep your skills sharp.

Education and qualifications

To join Wrenford Fire Rescue, you must meet the following requirements before your hire date:

  • Grade 12 diploma or equivalent
  • Completion of an accredited Firefighter 1 program (Sprott Shaw or equivalent Ontario college program)
  • Standard First Aid and CPR Level C certification
  • Valid Ontario G2 driver's licence with a clean abstract (five years)
  • Ability to pass a criminal reference check
  • Pass the Wrenford Fire Applicant Fitness Assessment
  • Meet vision and hearing standards

Physical fitness and testing

Wrenford uses a province-approved fitness assessment to ensure all candidates can handle the physical demands of the job. The test includes an aerobic endurance component measured on a treadmill, plus eight job-related performance tasks. These tasks simulate real firefighting duties, such as ladder climbs, hose advances, victim drags, and forced entry. You will also take a swimming test and complete vision and hearing screenings. We recommend starting a regular strength and conditioning program months before your test date. Consult a physician before beginning any new exercise routine.

Hiring process and dates

We run open recruitment cycles when vacancies arise. Here is what to expect:

  1. Application: Submit your application through the Employment opportunities portal. You must upload all transcripts and certifications.
  2. Written exam: Candidates who pass the initial screening take a multiple-choice exam covering fire science, mathematics, and situational judgment.
  3. Physical assessment: Tested at Wrenford City Hall or a local recreation centre on scheduled dates.
  4. Panel interview: A board of senior officers and community members interviews top candidates.
  5. Medical and background checks: Final candidates complete a pre-employment medical exam and a thorough background investigation.

Check the Fire Rescue page for the most current hiring calendar. We aim to announce results within four weeks of each testing phase.

Youth and community programs

We want to inspire the next generation of emergency responders. The Wrenford Youth Fire Academy offers secondary school students a chance to learn about fire service careers, participate in drills, and explore community safety. We also host a Ride-Along program for older teens and adults who want to see what a 24-hour shift looks like. Sign up through the Fire Rescue page or call our headquarters at 519-555-0115.

Salary and benefits

Wrenford Fire Rescue offers a competitive salary that grows with your years of service. As of 2026, the pay scale is:

Service Year Annual Salary
First 6 months $82,500.00
Start of 4th year $118,200.00
Start of 10th year $124,750.00
Start of 15th year $129,400.00

All firefighters receive the standard City benefits package, including extended health and dental coverage, group life insurance, and enrolment in the Local Authorities Pension Plan (LAPP). The City matches your pension contributions and provides a Health Spending Account and Lifestyle Spending Account each year.

Accessibility and accommodation

We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. If you require an accommodation during the application or testing process, please contact our Recruitment & Outreach Division at [email protected] or visit the Accessibility page for more information.

Apply today

Ready to serve your community? Create a profile and submit your application through the Employment opportunities portal. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until all vacancies are filled. For questions about the hiring process, email [email protected].