A fully trained firefighter is a skilled professional who uses modern equipment, methods and techniques to undertake a range of activities associated with the preservation of life and property.

Each platoon, led by a Fire Officer, works as a team. As a member of a platoon, you will be required to work shift work, including evenings and weekends.

• Proven ability to interact positively with team members, customers, and those we serve.
• The physical strength and capacity for intense and sustained effort.
• Ability to carry out orders in emergencies, combined with the capacity to assess and act on his/her own initiative and/or work effectively as a part of a team.
• Practical understanding of a wide range of subjects related to fire hazards, including the ability to operate and understand the operation of mechanical equipment.
• Concern for the reduction of pain and suffering for victims of emergencies, combined with personal characteristics including loyalty, dedication, and commitment to duty.
• Ability to perform firefighting duties during extremely taxing circumstances.
• Ability to learn new concepts, teach others, and continuously improve performance.

• College of the Rockies 
• Lakeland College
• JIBC- Maple Ridge
• Fire Academy Online

These are just some of the academic institutes that offer firefighter training. 

Application Review & Documentation Review

• Complete the online application process. 
• Applicants who meet the minimum requirements will be invited to the next step. 
• Applicants are reminded to ensure all items are included in their application package. Individuals who submit incomplete application packages will not be considered in the competition. 

Once your application is approved, you will be asked to complete a written firefighter aptitude test (evaluation of the applicant to assess the ability to understand instruction, mechanical aptitude, judgment, and reasoning). 

The online interview is an opportunity for our Recruitment Team to meet the applicants who have successfully passed the Aptitude Test. 

Applicants selected to advance from step three will be invited to participate in the Fitness-Job Specific Testing. The eight job-related performance tests are designed to simulate the physical demands of a firefighter’s job which requires muscular strength, coordination and endurance.

The Fitness-Job Specific Testing is divided into two days:

• Day One – Swim & Acrophobia Test (Ladder Climb)
• Day Two – Physical Fitness Testing (based on the University of Alberta – Firefighter Assessment Guidelines).
  • Treadmill Test
  • Charged Hose
  • Hi Vol Pull
  • Forcible Entry Simulation
  • Victim Rescue
  • Ladder Climb

Applicants successfully advancing from step four will then be assessed for optimal readiness with the organization. 

Applicants will be invited to participate in a panel interview conducted by representatives from the Grande Prairie Fire Department and City of Grande Prairie Human Resources Department.

Qualified applicants will work alongside crews with the Grande Prairie Fire Department for one day. 

Reference checks will be completed following the Station Assessments.

Applicants successfully advancing will receive a verbal conditional offer of employment. The offer is conditional upon satisfactory completion of the following items:

• Criminal Record Check, including Vulnerable Sector Check
• Medical Assessment with the Grande Prairie Fire Department Medical Director
• Psychological Assessment
• Upon satisfactory completion of these items, Human Resources will remove the conditions from the offer of employment and a formal written offer will be extended to successful applicants.