By 
January 14, 2022
A new year brings new and exciting opportunities. For Huntsville Fire & Rescue, that means recruiting the best and brightest to join its ranks.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. employment of firefighters will grow 8% from 2020 to 2030. Over the course of the next decade, there will be about 27,000 firefighter positions open annually due to retirements or career changes.
As demand grows, the race to recruit firefighters is more competitive than ever. Those curious about the field should know it’s not all about putting out fires.
“People have that image about the job, but there are many other things that we are responsible for every day in the department,” said Huntsville Fire & Rescue Deputy Chief Wesley Ogle. “When it comes to lifesaving rescue work, battling flames is not always part of the equation.”
A six-week campaign to hire 20-30 firefighters is underway in Huntsville. Anyone interested can visit JoinHFR.com to complete an application.
Still on the fence about applying? From your first day in turnout gear, here are five things you’ll appreciate about being part of Fire & Rescue:
It’s all about comradery.
Just like a family, Huntsville Fire & Rescue sticks together. When you report for your first shift, you quickly realize you’ve never had a job like this before. Your new friends – your brothers and sisters – are standing by ready to help.
HFR is truly a family environment. From enjoying a home-cooked meal to working side-by-side to protect citizens and property, you’ll build relationships that last a lifetime.
Every day is different.
You can experience the “daily grind” with most careers, but no two emergency calls are the same. If you like to problem-solve and tackle challenges, you’ll never be bored at Huntsville Fire & Rescue.
New opportunities with each shift.
When not at the scene of an emergency, firefighters have time to train and hone their skills, from hazardous material response to repelling off a 200-foot cliff. These skills must be mastered – not only to keep yourself safe, but also for those you’re risking your life for.
Being a part of the community.
Being a firefighter means you’re always there for those in need. When you arrive on a scene, you can see the relief in the eyes of those involved as well as their family members. And it’s not always about responding to emergencies. Visiting schools and letting children jump inside the cab of your truck makes a lasting impact and plants the seed for the next generation of firefighters.
Making a difference.
While your day-to-day routine at Huntsville Fire & Rescue might not look like what you see in the movies or on TV, you’ll still start and end each shift knowing you are making a difference in someone’s life!
If you think you have what it takes, visit JoinHFR.com today to learn more and apply.
