Firefighter/Apparatus Operator

New Hanover County is accepting applications for a full-time Firefighter/Apparatus Operator, where selected applicants meeting the requirements for and successfully completing an assessment will be selected to fill current and/or future vacancies. Duties include protecting life and property by responding to emergencies; securing the scene; extinguishing the fire; salvaging structures and their contents; and providing basic emergency medical care as a first responder. Responds as the primary apparatus operator to reports of emergencies which includes fires, emergency medical requests, technical rescue incidents, hazardous materials response and other types of situations that may present hazards or harm to people or property. Other duties include performing maintenance of vehicles and fire stations, conducting pre-plan fire inspections, acting in the absence of the Company Officer on assigned shifts and representing Fire Services to the public at various events.

New Hanover County Fire Rescue is comprised of a team of dedicated emergency response professionals who work to protect and educate citizens from the threats of fire and other emergencies. Our employees stay committed to the County's model of good governance working 24 hours a day in eight (8) fire/rescue stations, protecting 220 square miles of the County.

Hours: Rotating 24-hour shifts from 7AM-7AM, including weekends and holidays. Must be available to work in emergency situation and report per established department policies.

New Hanover County offers: Employer paid 401k contributions; Retirement plan through the NC Retirement system; Flex time and telework availability, depending on your position; Paid sick and personal leave + 13 paid holidays per year; Paid parental leave; Paid community services leave to give back to our community; Education leave to obtain a degree within your line of work; Medical, dental, and vision insurance + many other insurance options; Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center; Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives; Opportunities to make a difference in your community.

Requirements: High School diploma or equivalent; Four (4) years of related firefighting experience or three (3) years with New Hanover County Fire Services; NC Driver's License with good driving record; Firefighter accredited certification through IFSAC or Pro Board (NFPA 1001) or Firefighter II accredited certification; Driver Operator Pumps accredited certification through IFSAC or Pro Board; Emergency Vehicle Driver accredited certification required within 30 days; NC Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification required within one (1) year; Additional technical rescue and specialty certifications required at various milestones (6 months to 36 months)

Salary: Base Salary $56,351 + Naturally Accrued Overtime from scheduled hours $4,876.52 + Holiday Pay $3,901.22 = Firefighter Apparatus Operator Starting Pay equivalent to $65,128.74

Application Deadline: 2026-10-12