The Fort Wayne Fire Department is accepting applications for firefighter positions beginning November 9 until 4 p.m. EST December 20, 2023. During the hiring process, the Fort Wayne Fire Department seeks qualified applicants who will be committed to the public safety of the Fort Wayne community. 

Only qualified applicants ages 21 – 40 will be considered.

If you have specific questions about a career as a firefighter with the FWFD, you may contact Jermaine Thomas at 260-427-2180 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Please follow these important instructions to apply for the position of firefighter with the Fort Wayne Fire Department.

1. Click HERE to watch the 14 minute Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) video before you apply. During the application process, you will be asked if you viewed the CPAT video.

2. After viewing the CPAT video, you will have to access the City of Fort Wayne firefighter job application. When you access the application, you will be prompted for a pin number. If this is your first time applying for a FWFD position, please register for a pin number when you are prompted. It will be emailed to you. If you have applied for a FWFD position in the past and do not remember your pin number, contact the City of Fort Wayne HR Department, to recover your pin at 260-427-1180. Any other questions about the application process may also be directed to the City of Fort Wayne Human Resources Office at 260-427-1180.

3. After you have watched the CPAT video and have filled out the City of Fort Wayne online application form, you will receive an email with further instructions.

Click HERE to access the FWFD Written Exam Preparation Video and Practice Test, as well as the National Fire Select Test Orientation Guide.

Information about the salary of a FWFD Firefighter: http://www.fortwaynefiredepartment.org/career-opportunities/job-information

FWFD Firefighter job description: http://www.fortwaynefiredepartment.org/career-opportunities/job-information/firefighter-job-description

6 - 12 MONTH PROCESS

The Fort Wayne Fire Department hiring process is a long process, not unlike most public safety hiring processes across the country. From the time of application acceptance to appointment to the Fire Academy, the process can be 6-12 months in duration. Applicants must successfully pass each phase to move on in the hiring process. The process is governed by two entities: State of Indiana and the Fire Merit Commission codes and requirements.

The Fort Wayne Fire Department's hiring process:

Written Exam

CPAT

Panel Interview

Eligibility List is Established

Background Investigationge)

Acrophobia/Claustrophobia Test

Conditional Offer of Employment

Psychological Exam

Medical Exam

Pension Board Approval

Merit Commission Approval

Appointment to Academy

While candidates will have several mandatory reporting dates during the hiring process, these dates are spread across the hiring timeline and prior notice is given so candidates can plan and prepare. Candidates involved in the FWFD hiring process are encouraged to maintain their current employment.