Answer the Call. Be the Difference.

Become a Volunteer Firefighter

Ordinary people. Extraordinary impact. Step up and protect your community with the Northern Wake Fire Department.

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Serious Commitment. Massive Impact.

Why Volunteer?

You don’t have to quit your day job. Volunteer firefighters come from all walks of life—teachers, mechanics, business owners, students—but they share one thing: a willingness to drop everything when someone needs help.

Across the U.S., 54% of firefighters are volunteers. Without them, emergency response times increase, lives are lost, and communities suffer. When the alarm sounds, will you be the one to answer the call?

Serve Your Community

Save Lives.

Make a tangible difference in your community by ensuring the safety and well-being of your neighbors.

Challenge Yourself

Gain real life experience.

Gain valuable skills in emergency response, teamwork, and leadership that are transferable to various aspects of life.

Build Connections

Lifelong friendships.

Build lasting relationships with fellow volunteers and become part of a supportive and dedicated team.​

Get Rewarded

Tangible Benefits.

Access benefits such as a $75 stipend per shift, tuition assistance, and specialized training opportunities.

“The hero is the man who lets no obstacle prevent him from pursuing the values he has chosen.”

The Heart of Our Department

Established to serve and protect Northern Wake County, our department thrives on the dedication of volunteers who share a common goal: ensuring the safety and well-being of our neighbors. Our mission is rooted in bravery, commitment, and community spirit.

Volunteer firefighters are the backbone of emergency services across the nation. In the United States, 54% of firefighters are volunteers, playing a crucial role in safeguarding communities. By joining our ranks, you continue this proud tradition of service.

Key Things to Consider

Requirements

You must meet several requirements in order to join Northern Wake as a volunteer.

Basic Requirements

  • 18 years of age or older
  • Have a high school diploma or GED
  • Have a valid driver’s license
  • Live no farther than 20 road miles from any of our stations

Physical Fitness

Expectations:

  • Lifting & Carrying: Frequently lift and carry heavy equipment, fire hoses, and patients (50-100+ lbs).
  • Strength & Endurance: Engage in physically demanding tasks like dragging hoses, operating tools, and climbing ladders.
  • Climbing & Balancing: Climb ladders and maintain balance while handling fire hoses.
  • Crawling & Kneeling: Work in confined spaces and low-visibility conditions while wearing heavy gear.
  • Pushing & Pulling: Operate fire and rescue equipment with significant force.
  • Dexterity & Coordination: Perform fine motor tasks like using medical tools, radios, and operating emergency equipment.
  • Environmental Conditions: Work in extreme heat, smoke, hazardous conditions, and all weather.
  • Hearing & Vision: Must have strong situational awareness for emergency response and communication.

Training & TIme Commitment

Within one year: Probationary Firefighter check off (240 hours)

  • Internal NWFD probationary firefighter skills check off sheet
  • NC Hazardous Materials Operations/Level 1 Responder certification
  • National Incident Management System ICS-100, 200, 700, 800 courses
  • Wake County Rookie School

Within two years: North Carolina FIrefighter I & II Certification (~500 hours)

  • Internal NWFD probationary firefigher skills check off sheet
  • NC Hazardous Materials Operations/Level 1 Responder Certification
  • National Incident Management System ICS-100, 200, 700, 800 courses
  • Wake County Rookie School

Optional, but encouraged: NC EMT Certification (250 hours)

  • Didactic and practical instruction: 192 hours covering classroom learning, skills labs, and evaluations.
  • Clinical or field experience: A minimum of 48 hours, during which students must perform at least ten patient assessments. ​
  • Program duration: Varies by institution, typically ranging from 8 to 16 weeks.

Make the Commitment

Join the Northern Wake Fire Department: Serve, Protect, and Grow with Your Community.

Apply Now

How to Join

Application: Complete the online application form.

Interview: Attend an interview with our recruitment team.​

Probation: Serve a probationary period to ensure a good fit for both you and the department.​

Training: Enroll in and complete the firefighter training program.​

Apply Now