How to Get Hired at Seattle Fire: The Firefighter/EMT Process
The Seattle Fire Department (SFD) staffs 33 stations with nearly 1,000 uniformed members and hires through a civil service exam cycle. Starting pay is among the highest in the country for entry-level firefighters. Here is the current path and how to prepare. Confirm the latest on the official site, seattle.gov/fire.
Basic requirements
- At least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED
- A valid driver's license and the ability to communicate clearly in English
- EMT certification is not required to apply — but it is required for hire
- A civil service exam score via the NTN FireTEAM test during an open cycle
The selection process
- Apply during an open civil service exam cycle — Seattle posts Firefighter/EMT recruitments periodically (a recent cycle closed in late November 2025).
- NTN FireTEAM exam — Seattle tests through the National Testing Network; scores rank candidates on the register.
- Physical ability exam — administered during the selection process.
- Pre-employment selection — background investigation, interviews, and psychological and medical exams.
- Recruit academy and probation — EMT certification must be in hand for hire; Washington state certification is completed for those coming from other systems.
Knowing the process is step one. Being ready for each gate is the rest. Tailboard covers the written, the physical, and the oral board for one hiring season.
How to prepare
- The FireTEAM exam: it is video-based and scenario-heavy — untimed cramming does not help. Build test stamina with practice tests and the firefighter written exam guide.
- The physical: CPAT-style training transfers directly — use the CPAT training plan and know all 8 CPAT events.
- The interviews: Seattle's process is long — see how long the process takes — and interviews reward composure. Rehearse the firefighter oral board.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Seattle Fire pay to start?
A recent recruitment listed starting salary at approximately $98,000 per year, with step, longevity, and cost-of-living increases per the union contract, plus the LEOFF 2 pension. Confirm current figures on seattle.gov.
Do I need my EMT before applying to Seattle Fire?
No — EMT certification is not required to apply, but it is required before hire. Seattle gives candidates time to certify during the process, and many complete EMT school after passing the exam.
How does Seattle Fire test candidates?
Seattle uses a civil service exam administered through the National Testing Network's FireTEAM video test, followed by a physical ability exam, background investigation, interviews, and psychological and medical evaluations.