Experienced Firefighter and Experienced Firefighter​/Paramedic

The City of Bellingham is now accepting Experienced Firefighter and Experienced Firefighter/Paramedic applications for the January 2027 Academy.

Join the Bellingham Fire Department and support our mission of helping people every day!

Firefighters provide emergency assistance and protective services to citizens. They are trained and equipped to protect life and property threatened by disaster, fire, explosion, hazardous materials, illness, accidents and other hazards. Activities include emergency prevention, emergency and non-emergency response, fire code enforcement, building inspections, training and drill and maintenance of apparatus, equipment, fire station and grounds. They perform a wide range of emergency work under adverse environmental and strenuous physical conditions.

There is frequent potential for exposure to toxic chemicals, extreme heat, and infectious disease which require the use of protective equipment such as heat resistant clothing, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), and medical masks, gloves and gowns.

Firefighters may be required to drive fire apparatus or medical units and perform special firefighting, pre-hospital medical care, rescue work or other skills acquired by work experience and specialized training programs. Firefighters are subject to shift work and off-duty recall for major emergencies.

Starting 2026 wages for Lateral Firefighter:

The 2026 full monthly salary for Firefighter is $8,012 /mo - $10,164/mo.

Additional monthly premiums may be applied per assignment. Employees receive step increases annually in accordance with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) 106 Collective Bargaining Agreement and City policy.

At the City of Bellingham, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that helps you thrive in both your career and personal life. Join our team and enjoy peace of mind knowing that you and your loved ones are well cared for. Here’s a closer look at the outstanding benefits that come with being part of our team. You can find more details on our employment benefits page and labor agreements page.

• 144 hours of vacation leave upon hire + 10 hours of vacation leave per month, with increased accrual over time
• 6 shifts off incorporated into the work schedule in lieu of holidays
• 456 hours of sick leave upon hire + monthly accruals based on assigned schedule
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their families
• Life insurance and long-term disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts and medical insurance opt-out program
• Access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Washington State Retirement plan (LEOFF) for retirement security
• Optional 457 deferred compensation (Retirement Savings Plan) with employer match

Leave accruals are based on 1.0 FTE, accruals and require employees to be paid status at least 96 hours/month.

Closing Date/Time:
Fri. 10/16/2026 4:30 PM Pacific Time