Find Volunteer Firefighter Opportunities

Serve Your Community as an Everyday Hero

When emergencies strike, volunteer firefighters are often the first line of defense, providing critical fire protection and emergency services that keep the community safe. Across the U.S., volunteer firefighters are the backbone of fire protection—especially in rural and small-town areas where professional departments may be stretched thin.


At VolunteerFirefighter.org, we connect people like you with local fire departments that need your help. Whether you want to protect your neighbors, develop life-saving skills, or make a meaningful impact, volunteering is your path to service and community leadership.


Apply today to explore volunteer firefighter opportunities.

What Does Volunteer Firefighting Involve?

As a volunteer firefighter, you'll take on essential responsibilities that support public safety across our diverse community. Your duties may include responding to emergency calls, covering fires, medical emergencies, and traffic accidents. You'll participate in fire suppression, rescue, and search operations while supporting your neighbors during their most challenging moments.


Beyond emergency response, you'll perform building inspections, code enforcement, and fire prevention education. You'll also support training drills, equipment maintenance, and participate in community outreach events that strengthen emergency preparedness.


Your service becomes part of a team that protects lives and property in places where volunteer fire services bridge critical gaps in emergency response coverage.


Start your application today to join our volunteer firefighter community.

Requirements and Benefits for Volunteers

Each local fire department sets its own standards, but you can expect common requirements that ensure readiness and reliability.


  • What age requirements apply? You must be of minimum age, often between 18–21, though some jurisdictions accept younger volunteers
  • What background is needed? You'll need a valid driver's license, physical fitness for demanding tasks, and the ability to pass background checks including criminal and motor vehicle records
  • How much training is required? You'll complete required fire and EMS training such as Firefighter I and Hazmat awareness, with departments typically providing or sponsoring training for new recruits
  • What's the time commitment? You'll need to reside within or near the fire district and commit to ongoing training while responding to a certain percentage of calls
  • What benefits are available? While volunteer firefighting is generally unpaid, you may receive tax incentives, volunteer stipends, tuition assistance, health coverage, and professional certifications valued in many careers


No prior experience is required—departments provide comprehensive training to prepare you for service. Contact us today to begin your volunteer firefighter journey.