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Become a Burbank Firefighter

Become a City of Burbank Firefighter

The Burbank Fire Department wants qualified, ambitious individuals who desire to build a rewarding career. Our Department has innovative programs with diverse challenging assignments offering professional development and personal growth.

There are many paths to becoming a firefighter, but you'll need to meet these minimum qualifications:

  • United States citizen of good character and free from any mental or physical condition which would limit performance
  • At least 21 years of age at the time of appointment
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Valid California Driver License
  • California Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certificate at the time of appointment

Become a City of Burbank Firefighter Part 2

Here are some suggested ways to improve your success in becoming a firefighter:

  • Enhance your customer service experience and team environment skills.
  • Sign up for various firefighter recruitment sites.
  • Start testing with any fire department that you qualify for. Every test better prepares you for the next one. Figure out your weaknesses and work on them.
  • Get your EMT certificate and National Registry certificate, which makes you eligible to apply to many departments. EMT courses may be taken at select community colleges. These classes often fill up fast and priority will be given to current students, so you may need to sign up for other classes before enrolling.
  • Once certified, apply for EMT jobs with private ambulance companies or hospitals to get some hands-on experience. 
  • Take general education courses and work towards your Associate in Science (AS) degree in fire science, anatomy, and physiology, which are often prerequisites for paramedic school.
  • Enroll in a Firefighter 1 Academy.
  • Get involved in a volunteer, reserve, or cadet program before obtaining your certifications.
  • If considering paramedic school, enroll in one to get your paramedic license.
  • After receiving your AS degree, consider a Bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as public administration or emergency management.
  • Take as many specialized courses as possible. Some examples are driver operator/Emergency Vehicle Operations Course, wildland firefighter, hazardous materials tech and specialist, rescue systems, high rise tactics, confined space rescue, swift water rescue, truck company operations, engine company operations.