Entry Firefighter and Entry Firefighter/Paramedic (NTN FireTeam Testing Window Open)

The City of Bellingham has opened the Entry Firefighter NTN FireTeam Testing window for the January 2027 Academy. Test today through NTN to start the process of joining the Bellingham Fire Department and supporting 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. Click here to view FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS WHY JOIN OUR TEAM? Joining the City of Bellingham means becoming a part of a team that believes our greatest impact comes from working together with purpose, humility and a shared commitment to our community. Every employee contributes to delivering meaningful results for the people who live, work and visit here. We value people who approach challenges with curiosity, respect and collaboration. If you are motivated by building a career in public service, we encourage you to apply. SALARY AND BENEFITS INFORMATION: Starting 2026 wages for Firefighter: Entry Firefighter - $8,012 Entry Firefighter with National Registry Paramedic Certifications- $8,012/mo plus $1,016.40/mo Engine Medic Premium until placed as Paramedic. Paramedic Premium is $1,524.60/mo. Engine Medic Pay will be removed if they fail to pass the BFD evaluation process. The 2026 full monthly salary for an Entry 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. Note: If you are a Experienced Firefighter/Firefighter Paramedic, please review the qualifications for Lateral Firefighter on our website . We will be opening the Experience Firefighter application window directly on our website . If it is not posted, please sign up for the job interest alerts to receive an email notification. 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. 10 hours of vacation leave per month, with increased accrual over time 6 shifts off incorporated into the work schedule in lieu of holidays 228 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. For additional information regarding benefits and compensation Information please visit the following: Labor Agreements, Pay Schedules and E-Team Employee Handbook - City of Bellingham (cob.org) Employment Benefits - City of Bellingham (cob.org) TESTING INFORMATION: All applicants interested in this position must complete testing through National Testing Network . Please visit the National Testing Network website (www.NationalTestingNetwork.com) for information regarding the testing process. FireTEAM Testing and a valid CPAT are required for this position. Please see below for the FireTeam and CPAT Testing windows: FireTEAM Testing: Must be completed by 4:30pm, September 23, 2026. Please note that if you have applied with the City of Bellingham in the previous testing window and would like to resubmit your current scores, you will need to contact NTN directly to transfer your valid scores to reapply for the current testing window. CPAT Certification: A current, valid CPAT certification will be accepted from NTN or another agency licensed by the IAFF/AFC as a licensed CPAT provider. CPAT testing must be completed and certification issued between October 31, 2025 and October 30, 2026 . Proof of CPAT must be attached to your City of Bellingham application. Candidates who pass the speed interview will be invited to complete the City of Bellingham application. Please do not send proof of CPAT Certification until instructed. The City of Bellingham participates in the National Testing Network’s Fee Waiver Program. Please contact NTN Candidate Support for more infor