University Fire Department Student Firefighter Ready to build a career in emergency services? Are you self-disciplined, responsible, and focused? Do you thrive in fast-paced, ever-changing environments? Are you looking for a career with real growth, real impact, and real purpose? The University Fire Department is now accepting applications from UAF students who are serious about building successful careers in firefighting and emergency services. This one-of-a-kind program at the University of Alaska Fairbanks allows you to earn your degree while gaining hands-on experience as a firefighter and EMT—all while earning wages to support your living expenses. As a Student Firefighter, you will: Work a 56-hour shift schedule Attend college classes in fields like Fire Science, Paramedicine, and Emergency Management. All fields of study are welcome and supported. Gain real-world emergency response experience that set you apart This powerful combination of training, education, and experience has launched our alumni into fire service careers across the United States. Many graduates become top candidates in hiring processes—and go on to be promoted into leadership and management roles. What It Takes To Succeed We're looking for candidates who can perform under pressure, think critically, and operate effectively in high-stakes environments. Successful applicants will demonstrate: The ability to analyze situations quickly and objectively, determining the proper course of action The ability to react quickly and calmly under emergency conditions The ability to learn and efficiently perform a wide variety of firefighting and emergency medical duties, methods, and techniques, including climbing stairs in multi-story buildings while carrying heavy tools and equipment The ability to perform physically demanding tasks, such as carrying victims, hoisting equipment using ropes, and operating heavy equipment, while establishing and maintaining effective working relationships The ability to climb ladders and work at considerable heights The ability to understand and execute complex oral and written instructions quickly The ability to perform limited mechanical work related to maintaining firefighting and rescue apparatus, equipment, and tools The ability to work as part of a team while exercising independent judgment when required The ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing The ability to drive or operate large fire vehicles safely and efficiently with appropriate instructionThis isn't just a job—it's a launchpad. If you're ready to challenge yourself, serve your community, and start building a career that matters...Apply today. Minimum Qualifications To be considered for the UAF Student Firefighter position, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Age Requirement: Must be 18 years old by the time of hire
Education: Must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent
Driver's License:
Must have a current, valid Alaska Driver's License OR obtain one:o Within 30 days of employment, ando Within 90 days of entering the state
Student Status: Must be enrolled, or plan to enroll, as a full-time student at UAF and be eligible to work more than 20 hours per week. After hire, student employees must:o Maintain at least a 2.0 semester and cumulative GPAo Be enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours each regular semester
Firefighter Certification: Must have Alaska State Firefighter I certification by the date of hireo Applicants from outside Alaska may obtain reciprocity through the Alaska Fire Standards Council for IFSAC for Pro-Board Firefighter I certificationso Certification can also be obtained by attending the CTC Summer Fire Academy Physical Ability Testing: Must obtain and submit one of the following:
A CPAT (Candidate Physical Ability Test) certificate issued by the University Fire Department or an approved CPAT testing agencyOR proof of passing a Biddle Physical Ability Test from an approved administrator
Background Requirements:- Must submit and maintain an acceptable criminal history and driving record
- Required Application Materials
- Cover LetterResumeLetters of Recommendation Submit two (2) letters of recommendation
- Personal Essay (Minimum 500 words) Tell us about: o Yourselfo Your academic goals o Your career ambitions
- Transcripts o Provide high school, college, and university transcripts
- Driving & Background Recordso Driving Record from your state's Division of Motor Vehicleso Criminal Background History from your local Police Department
- Supplemental Questionnaire – MANDATORY Complete the department questionnaire here:Additional Application Requirements - In addition to the materials above, you must also provide the following:
- Two (2) Professional References - (Include names and contact information)
- Certifications & Testing (if applicable): Already Certified?
- If you are already certified as an Alaska State / IFSAC /Pro-Board Firefighter I, you must attach your certification to your application.
Example Certifications:
o IFSAC or Pro-Board Firefighter I Certificationo CPAT or Biddle Physical Ability Test Certification (must be valid within one year)o BLS for Healthcare Providers Card – Currento FEMA ICS 100, 200, 700, 800 certs Pro Tip: Submitting a complete and well-organized application demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail—qualities we expect from future firefighters. Top candidates review the grading rubric first to understand how applications are scored and to build a standout submission: Application Completeness Requirement - MANDATORY Applicants are responsible for ensuring all required application materials are submitted by the application deadline. Applications that are incomplete, missing required documentation, or fail to meet the stated requirements will be disqualified from further consideration and will not advance in the hiring process. Examples of incomplete applications include, but are not limited to: Missing cover letter Missing resume Missing letters of recommendation Missing personal essay Missing transcripts Missing driving record Missing criminal background record Incomplete supplemental questionnaire Applications will not be held pending receipt of missing materials after the application deadline. Applicants who submit an incomplete application may apply again during a future hiring cycle once all requirements have been met. How the Process Works:One Application, Multiple Opportunities: Your application will be reviewed by a consortium hiring committee representing all participating departmentsDepartment Interest: Through the supplemental questionnaire, you may indicate interest in one or more departments. Your Preferences will be considered during the initial offer process Departments will coordinate to align offers with applicant preferences when possible Shared Review & Interviews: Applications are jointly reviewed and scored using a standardized process. Selected applicants will be invited to consortium interviews Interviews are conducted collaboratively, typically with a few days of application review Offers & Placement: Initial offers are coordinated across departments following interviews Your stated preferences will be prioritized during the first round of offers After initial offers, candidates may be considered by any department with remaining openings Scholarship & Volunteer Opportunities In addition to the paid UFD Student Firefighter position, our consortium partner departments offer scholarship-based positions. If you express interest in the supplemental questionnaire, your application
