Fire recruitment and training

Located just north of Calgary, Airdrie, Alberta offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city convenience.

With a population projected to exceed 100,000 by 2027, Airdrie is a thriving city with:

• Excellent schools and family-friendly amenities
• Expansive parks, trails, and recreational facilities
• A strong sense of community and belonging

At AFD, we’re more than emergency responders—we’re educators, protectors, and leaders. Here’s what makes us stand out:

• Strong Team Environment: Supportive colleagues and a family-like culture
• Professional Growth: Ongoing training and development opportunities
• Community Impact: Make a real difference in people’s lives
• Competitive Compensation: Attractive salary and benefits
• Modern Facilities: Access to state-of-the-art equipment and stations

Our members are proudly represented by the IAFF local 4778.

AFD operates three fire halls with a fourth hall coming on-line in 2026. The Airdrie Fire Department responds to a wide range of emergencies and events:

• Fire suppression
• Medical co-response (Primary Care Paramedics)
• Motor vehicle collisions
• Rope and Ice rescues
• Hazardous materials incidents
• Fire prevention and public education

In 2024, AFD responded to 2,964 calls, with 52% being medical emergencies.

We’re seeking individuals who are:

• Experienced in firefighting and emergency response
• Certified Paramedic (PCP or ACP, or committed to completing PCP training)
• Physically and mentally resilient
• Team-oriented and collaborative
• Dedicated to community service

Minimum Requirements

• Over 18 years of age

• Legally eligible to work in Canada

• High School Diploma or GED

• Ability to pass a criminal record and vulnerable sector check

• Valid Class 1, 2, or 3 driver’s license with Q air brake endorsement (Must have less than 7 demerit points at time of application.)

Required Certifications - Firefighting

The following are the Firefighting certifications we are looking for applicants to possess:

• NFPA 1001 Level I & II (IFSAC or ProBoard)
• NFPA 472/1072 Hazmat Awareness & Operations
• Additional Firefighting and emergency response certifications are considered an asset

Applicants who have experience in a municipal fire service that provides in-house training that meets NFPA 1001 requirements but does not issue a certification are able to apply for equivalency.

Required Certifications - Medical

In order to best serve the needs of our community, all of our front-line firefighters are also paramedics.

• Primary Care or Advanced Care Paramedic with a Alberta College of Paramedics practice permit

Applicants currently enrolled in a Primary Care Paramedic program are eligible to apply. The application process will allow for applicants to provide a status of their current program and provide a proposed strategy for completion of their program and potential employment with AFD.

The following are some of the options available for the right candidates:

• Invitation to reapply at the conclusion of the PCP program
• Selection and placement in a future scheduled recruit class
• Placement on a Eligibility List for invitation to a future class when scheduled
• In the case of registration in a blended delivery PCP program, the potential may exist for a candidate to be hired and start full-time work with the expectation that their studies are successfully completed within a set period of time

Out of Province applicants who have the appropriate training and registration in their home province are invited to discuss the transferability of their credentials

AFD offers competitive pay as outlined in our Collective Bargaining Agreement with IAFF Local 4778.

View the IAFF 4778 Collective Bargaining Agreement here

STEP 1 - Apply Online

Create an account and apply online with a Resume and Cover Letter.

Answer screening questions to ensure applicants meet the minimum certification requirements for the position.

STEP 2 - Online aptitude test

We utilize the Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test (FACT) and Comprehensive Examination Battery (CEB) tests which includes reading, writing, math, and interpersonal skills. This examination will be delivered virtually.

There is a cost to the applicant of $35 USD to take the exam.

This test is facilitated through a third-party vendor, Fire & Police Selection Inc (FPSI), which offers optional material (at a cost) to help prepare for the test. 

Firefighter Applicant Test Preparation

STEP 3 - Panel interview

The next step in the process is an in-person panel interview that provides the opportunity for applicants to show who they are, not just what they know. Finding the right people with the right attitude is an important element of our recruitment.

The format will be a Behavioural Descriptive Interview following the STAR (Situation, Task, Actions, Result) Format.

Interview panels will be comprised of:

• Airdrie Fire Department Firefighter or Officer
• Airdrie Fire Department Chief Officer
• City of Airdrie Human Resources

Applicants who live outside of Alberta may request a virtual interview if required.

STEP 4 - Firefighting and medical skills assessment

Applicants invited back following the interview will undergo a Firefighting and Medical Skills assessment.

An example of some of the Firefighting JPR's that may be included in the assessment (Based on IFSTA Essentials 8th Edition) :

• Ground Ladder Evolution
• Hydrant Evolution
• Firefighter Lift and Carries
• Ladder Climb Evolution

The assessment will also involve individual medical skill stations in our Sim Lab. Required skills being assessed will fall within the scope of a registered EMR.

STEP 5 - Fitness evaluation and VO2 Max

Applicants moving forward will have to complete, or provide a record of completion for one of the following fitness evaluations. The results of these tests will be considered valid for 12 months.

• University of Alberta Firefighter Fitness Test
• Red Deer Polytechnic Firefighter Applicant Physical Aptitude Test
• Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)

The fitness evaluation is conducted at the expense of the applicant. The cost of this test is approximately $200 - $400.

STEP 6 - Reference and credential checks

The City of Airdrie will conduct reference checks and verify credentials and experience including:

• Education
• Certifications
• Employment History
• Alberta College of Paramedics practice permit
• Criminal Record Check including Vulnerable Sector Search

STEP 7 - Medical Assessment and Treadmill Assessment (VO2 Max)

Candidates will undergo a medical assessment with our contracted provider in accordance with NFPA 1582 as well as complete a VO2 Max Assessment meeting a minimum of 12 minutes 30 seconds.

Visit airdrie.ca/careers to submit your application. 

For questions, contact us at: fire.department@airdrie.ca

We look forward to welcoming you to the AFD team!