Ready to answer the call? Join the next generation at Huntsville Fire & Rescue

Published on October 10, 2023

Since Dec. 10, 1819, heroes with Huntsville Fire & Rescue (HFR), formerly known as the “Huntsville Fire Bucket Brigade,” have answered the call to protect life and property in the Rocket City.

Now, HFR wants you to answer the call and join their team!

Applications are open to qualifying individuals hoping to become part of the next generation of difference-makers at Huntsville Fire & Rescue. Interested candidates can visit JoinHFR.com to apply or learn more about the career.

“Becoming a member of our ‘squad’ isn’t just about keeping Huntsville safe – it’s also a family that will stick by you for a lifetime,” said HFR Chief Howard “Mac” McFarlen. “By choosing a career with Huntsville Fire & Rescue, you’ll find meaning in your work by providing progressive, comprehensive services and striving to efficiently use resources to meet the needs of the City of Huntsville.”

Firefighter recruitment only occurs a few times a year. To be eligible, candidates must have no convicted felonies, be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.

Starting out at $53,726.40, a cadet’s annual salary jumps to Grade 13, Step 12, or $59,280, when they complete all the required training and transition to full-time firefighters. After a year, employees become eligible for a yearly step pay increase, effective every 12 months on the anniversary of their first date of employment.

“We strive to recruit and retain the best of the best at Huntsville Fire & Rescue,” said Capt. Cory Green, who is also HFR’s full-time recruiter. “That means investing in our workforce to ensure HFR personnel have the support and means to build a secure and energizing career with our department.”

What are the perks of joining Huntsville Fire & Rescue – beyond great pay, exceptional benefits and the satisfaction of serving your community?

• Plenty of room for advancement
• Only work 10-11 24-hour shifts per month
• Forge friendships that span decades
• Strong sense of purpose

“There are so many benefits to joining our team here at Huntsville Fire & Rescue,” McFarlen said. “Getting to ride on a fire truck is a good one, too! That thrill never gets old.”

Although fire suppression is a critical part of the job, it’s not the only thing Huntsville Fire & Rescue employees do.

Their work also includes prevention, emergency lifesaving and rescue services. It’s an inherently dangerous career that requires strenuous physical exertion under emergency conditions such as extreme heat, confined spaces, contaminated environments and infectious disease.

Throughout their career, Huntsville firefighters may choose to participate in a variety of teams, including the Hazmat Team, Heavy Rescue Team, Fire Prevention and Code Enforcement, Honor Guard/Pipes & Drums, or the Training Division. Advancement opportunities are also available to those seeking leadership roles within the department.

Think you might have what it takes? The City of Huntsville, an Equal Opportunity Employer, encourages prospective candidates to attend one or both meet-and-greet events on the following dates:

Tuesday, Oct. 24 – 6-8 p.m.

Fire Station #1

2110 Clinton Ave.

Saturday, Nov. 4 – 10 a.m. to noon

Public Safety Training Complex

5365 Triana Blvd.

Anyone interested in applying can visit JoinHFR.com to learn more about the hiring process and complete an application. To ask questions or talk to Recruiter Cory Green, call/text 256-975-9447 or email Cory.Green@HuntsvilleAL.gov.

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