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Join our team! The City of Kentwood is seeking applicants for Firefighter openings in the Kentwood Fire Department.
The starting salary for this position is $49,431. The max pay after four years of service is $73,589. The City of Kentwood offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a 9% employer retirement plan contribution, 11 holidays, six sick days and up to four weeks of vacation annually.
We also offer competitive medical and vision insurance, as well as no-cost dental insurance. Other health benefits include free telehealth visits, health savings and spending account options and a generous annual employer contribution to a retirement health savings plan. Additionally, we provide employer-paid life insurance, long-term disability coverage at no cost to employees and free access to an employee assistance program. We’re proud to also cover the cost of job-related training, certifications and licenses to help our team members reach their career goals. All employees receive a discount on city recreation programs and rentals. Employees also enjoy free access to a fitness room.
The Kentwood Fire Department is a team of efficient, professional and dedicated personnel who serve the community by protecting life, property and the environment. The department performs a variety of services and responds to all hazards which include emergency medical calls, fire suppression, fire prevention, hazmat, technical rescue and more. In 2021, the department responded to over 5,000 calls for service from three strategically located fire stations. Each fire station is staffed 24/7 by full-time firefighters who are certified by the state of Michigan and licensed as emergency medical technicians. Kentwood Fire Department’s ISO rating is a 3, which is among the top 8% in the U.S. and top 2% in Michigan. The department offers many career advancement opportunities through promotions to positions such as engine operator, lieutenant, captain, battalion chief, fire inspector and fire marshal.
Reporting directly to the Fire Lieutenant, main responsibilities for this role include performing a variety of emergency and non-emergency public safety duties that involve fire suppression and medical care on an assigned shift; protects life and property, operates and maintains equipment, teaches fire prevention to the public and enforces codes and standards.
Our ideal candidate has a high school diploma or GED and the following certifications: EMT-B, Firefighter II, and HAZMAT. Please view the full job description for more details.
The City of Kentwood is a community of more than 54,000 residents and growing, Kentwood is a safe, prosperous and welcoming city with vibrant neighborhoods and flourishing businesses that make it a wonderful place to live and work.
The city offers easy access to a variety of amenities including many of West Michigan’s destination shopping, dining, entertainment and outdoor recreation options. Within our 21 square miles are more than 13 miles of non-motorized trails and 15 parks that cover 301 acres and offer a range of amenities from pickleball to splashpads. This, along with Kentwood’s outstanding public-school systems, wide variety of businesses and career and education advancement opportunities attract a diverse population.
Centrally located, Kentwood is an easy local commute, thanks to many public and private transport options. It’s also just outside of downtown Grand Rapids and a short drive from the Lake Michigan shore, offering ample opportunities for both big city lights and nature-filled adventures.
With a mission of providing high quality services to foster a thriving community for all, Kentwood maintains a culture of excellent customer service, actively providing a responsive and responsible local government with a focus on continual improvement.
The City of Kentwood is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Apply today to join our supportive, dynamic team!
When applying for this position, you must upload your EMT-B, Fire Fighter II, and HAZMAT operations certifications.
Your application will not be considered without required certifications.
