Yuma Fire Department opens recruitment for new first responders

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - The Yuma Fire Department (YFD) is looking for its next group of firefighters, with recruitment opening September 1.

Applications will be accepted from September 1 through September 6, or until the department receives 600 applications.

Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Have a valid driver’s license
• No certifications are required to apply

This year, YFD is adding a pre-physical test to the hiring process. Yuma Fire Department Public Information Officer Francisco Leon says the physical test will take place before candidates move on to the written exam.

“Something that we are doing different this year is we’re doing a pre-physical test," Leon said. "So before the written they’re going to be given a physical exam.”

Pre-physical testing is scheduled for September 20, September 27 and October 4. The September 27 date is currently tentative.

Written testing will be held October 13, October 14 and October 15.

Leon says continued recruitment is important as the department works to account for retirements and firefighters who move on to other opportunities.

“It’s important to continue to recruit. Because we always do have unexpected retirements or there will be people that leave for other departments," Leon said. "I'm not saying that's a common thing but it does happen. So it gives us the opportunity to remain prepared and always try to keep those numbers up so we're not understaffed and we're better able to serve the community."

YFD is expecting to fill about 10 positions through this recruitment process.

The department also offers competitive benefits, Arizona PSPRS retirement, paid specialty assignments and certification incentives, along with career advancement opportunities and department-sponsored training and certifications.