Firefighter

Firefighter
City of Covington, Kentucky
Fire Department
Position Type: Full-Time
Salary: $54,852.43 - $86,306.71 (Competitive Based on Experience + State Incentive Pay)

Important Testing Information

The City of Covington offers comprehensive testing services for the position of Firefighter through the National Testing Network (NTN). To register and schedule your test, please visit https://www.nationaltestingnetwork.com/. Complete the NTN registration process and schedule your test at a time that works best for you.

Steps to Apply:

1. Review the Firefighter Job Details.
2. Complete the NTN registration and take the exam.
3. Successful candidates will be placed on the eligibility list for further consideration.

Note: Passing the NTN exam is required to move forward in the hiring process.

Bonus points will be given for candidates for the following: Veteran, City of Covington Residents,  IFSAC/Pro-board Firefighter I and Firefighter II, EMT, Paramedic

Why Covington?

Welcome to the bold side of the river. Covington, Kentucky is a place where history and progress come together—and as a Firefighter, your role will be pivotal in shaping the future of our community. We attract individuals who are passionate about service—brave, dedicated, and committed professionals who are ready to make a real difference. In the Covington Fire Department, your work will directly contribute to keeping our city safe and helping it grow stronger with every call you respond to.

Covington is a community that celebrates its diversity, its rich history, and its forward-thinking approach to progress. It’s a place where every firefighter’s contribution matters, where you’ll be a part of something bigger than yourself—helping to shape a city where service and community stand as the core of everything we do.

If you’re ready to challenge yourself, grow your career, and join a team that values dedication, teamwork, and community, Covington is the place for you. Come help us protect, serve, and build a safer future for the city and its people.

Benefits You’ll Love

As a Firefighter, you’ll be eligible for a comprehensive benefits package:

• State Incentive Pay: $4,300 annually
• Step-in Grade Pay Increases
• Paid Holidays & Vacation (up to 30 days with tenure)
• Paid Sick Leave & Personal Days
• Health, Dental & Vision Benefits
• Employer-Paid Life Insurance
• College Tuition Reimbursement
• Longevity & Shift Differential Pay
• Health & Wellness Center Access
• Retirement Benefits

Salary Range and Career Growth

Lateral Firefighters will be placed in grade based on years of fire service experience. Firefighters can progress in grade and salary as they gain experience:

EMT Pay:

• Grade 1 (Entry Level): Less than 3 years – $48,573
• Grade 2 (3-5 Years): $56,735
• Grade 3 (5-7 Years): $61,723
• Grade 4 (More than 7 Years): $69,176

Medic Pay:

• Grade 1 (Entry Level): Less than 3 years – $62,544
• Grade 2 (3-5 Years): $72,092
• Grade 3 (5-7 Years): $77,926
• Grade 4 (More than 7 Years): $86,645

Plus, Longevity after 3 years: Additional pay for each year of service, paid every month

Role Overview

As a Firefighter with the Covington Fire Department, you will bring your experience to respond to emergencies, prevent fires, and protect lives and property. You’ll perform a variety of critical tasks, from fire suppression and rescue operations to medical assistance and fire prevention activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Emergency Response & Fire Suppression: Respond to fires, medical emergencies, hazardous material incidents, and more.
• Medical Assistance: Provide BLS care and support paramedics.
• Rescue Operations: Engage in high-angle, water, and confined space rescues.
• Hazardous Materials Response: Safely handle and mitigate hazardous material incidents.
• Training & Equipment Maintenance: Regular drills and ensure all fire equipment is ready for use.
• Community Outreach: Participate in fire prevention education and inspections.
• Station Maintenance: Keep the firehouse and equipment in working order.
• Physical Demands: Engage in physically challenging tasks and maintain fitness.

Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills

• Stay Abreast of Fire Service Trends: Continuously update knowledge on firefighting techniques, equipment, and safety protocols.
• Maintain Confidentiality: Handle sensitive materials with discretion.
• Work Schedule Flexibility: Must be available for 24-hour shifts, followed by 48 hours off duty.
• Effective Communication: Ability to read, write, and communicate at a high school or higher level.
• Teamwork & Interaction: Ability to work well with team members, management, and the community.

Qualifications

Experience:

• Grade 1: Firefighter Grade 1 advances to Grade 2 after 1 year of service.
• Grade 2: Advances to Grade 3 after 2 years of service.
• Grade 3: Advances to Grade 4 after 4 years of service and a favorable recommendation from the Fire Chief.

Education:

• High School graduate or equivalent.

Additional Evaluations:

• Agility Test: To assess physical fitness.
• Psychological Exam: To evaluate mental suitability for the position.
• Background Check: Includes fingerprinting to verify criminal history.

Certifications

• Driver’s License: Must maintain a current driver’s license.
• Unrestricted Kentucky Paramedic License: Required for paramedic duties (paramedics are still responsible for firefighter duties). If not currently certified, must obtain within 3 years of hire through department-paid classes.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

Firefighting is physically demanding and requires the ability to:

• Lift & Carry: Up to 100 lbs of gear or injured individuals.
• Climb: Ladders and stairs under various conditions.
• Endure Heat & Stress: Work in hot, smoky, and hazardous environments.
• Shift Work: 24-hour shifts followed by 48 hours off.
• Outdoor Work: Respond to emergencies in all weather conditions.

The job involves frequent exposure to dangerous and physically demanding tasks, requiring stamina, strength, and mental focus.

Ready to Apply?

If you meet the qualifications and are ready to make a difference in Covington, we encourage you to apply today! Join a department that values your experience, well-being, and professional growth.

EEO Statement

The City of Covington is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the rich variety of perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences in our community. We encourage individuals from all walks of life to apply and proudly provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants, regardless of race, color, sex (including gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity), religion, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic