Are you looking for a rewarding career that combines service, compassion, physical and mental toughness, and grit into one calling? The Harrisonburg Fire Department (HFD) is actively recruiting interested individuals for the position of Firefighter. No prior experience is required for individuals who possess a valid Regional Firefighter Testing Certificate*. Individuals with prior training and experience are also encouraged to apply through this recruitment process.
*The Regional Firefighter Testing referenced in this job advertisement is the local event hosted by the following agencies: City of Harrisonburg, City of Staunton, City of Waynesboro, Augusta County, Rockingham County, and Rockbridge County.
The preferred hiring ranges are listed below. Applicants may be considered for the Firefighter level at which they qualify and a corresponding annual rate commensurate with applicant qualifications.
- Firefighter Recruit (2,080 hours): $23.10 - $24.84 per hour (equivalent to $48,048 - $51,667 annually).
- Firefighter (2,756 hours): $19.01 - $20.43 per hour (equivalent to $52,391 - $56,305 annually).
All applicants must meet the following criteria:
Important Notes:
- Upon submitting an application, candidates will be contacted by the Fire Department with guidance on next steps based on responses to the supplemental questions.
- Successful applicants for this position will be subject to the following screenings and must receive satisfactory results:
- DMV record review;
- Criminal background check;
- Medical evaluation;
- Drug screening; and
- Personal History Statement.
Application Deadline: To be considered, all candidates must submit a City of Harrisonburg online employment application by 5:00pm EST on Monday, May 4, 2026. All required fields on the online employment application must be completed, including your education history and work experience. Incomplete applications and applications with verification(s) of no prior education and/or work history will not be considered.
The City provides an excellent benefits package including health insurance, retirement (VRS with Enhanced Hazardous Duty Benefits, & MissionSquare), life insurance, paid leave, and holidays.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
The City of Harrisonburg is an Equal Opportunity Employer.