Volunteer Opportunities

Thank you for your interest in our Volunteer Firefighter / EMT and EMS Responder Program. Volunteers have a long and honored tradition serving communities throughout our country.

The Port Angeles Fire Department has utilized volunteers since its inception in 1891, and they remain a vital link between the Fire Department and the community.

Fire fighters

Required Training

Becoming a volunteer requires a large initial commitment. Volunteer Firefighter / EMTs are required to successfully complete a 120-hour (four months) firefighter recruit academy and a 120-hour (three months) emergency medical technician class; EMS responder volunteers are required to complete the 120-hour emergency medical technician class.

Once you have completed the initial required training your monthly commitment will vary depending on the needs of the department and community. Active participation is a mandatory requirement for membership.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Age: You must be 18 years old at the time you test to become a volunteer.
  • Availability: You must live within a 12-minute response time to the Port Angeles Fire Department. Additionally, preference is given to persons available for response during the weekday hours.
  • Education and Experience: You must have a high school diploma or equivalent qualification. You must be able to read and write the English language fluently enough to perform the duties of a firefighter and Washington State EMT. Prior medical or fire fighting experience is not necessary.
  • Driving Record: Applicants must have a valid Washington State driver’s license and a history of safe driving habits.

Application Process

Applications can be obtained at the Port Angeles Fire Department Headquarters Station located at 102 East Fifth Street in Port Angeles, or you may download the application (PDF) online. Applications are accepted at any time and will be maintained on file for a period of one year.

The Port Angeles Fire Department reviews applications only when an opening exists within the volunteer program. When an opening exists or is anticipated, all on-file applications are reviewed and those candidates meeting the minimum qualifications are invited (by mail) to begin the candidate testing process.

Additional Information

Anyone who withholds or gives false application information or fails any portion of the candidate testing process will not be accepted.