Paid Per Call Firefighter Recruitment

As a Paid Per Call (PPC) Firefighter with Kenora Fire and Emergency Services, you’ll play a key role in keeping our community safe. You’ll respond to emergency calls, assist with firefighting and rescue operations, and support programs that prevent fires and protect lives and property. You’ll also help maintain our vehicles, equipment, and facilities to ensure the team is always ready for action.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in your community while gaining valuable skills and experience in emergency services.

Paid Per Call Firefighter Job Posting

Recruitment process

Learn about the steps to become a Paid Per Call Firefighter. Please note that all dates are subject to change and will be confirmed with the candidates.

Step 1 - application period open September 8th to October 9th, 2026

All applications will be collected and carefully reviewed by Kenora Fire and Emergency Services. Candidates who meet the minimum requirements will be contacted with next steps in the recruitment process. Please ensure your application is complete and submitted before the deadline, as incomplete or late applications may not be considered.

Step 2- interview period, October 19th to 30th, 2026

Candidates selected for an interview will meet with members of the Kenora Fire and Emergency Services. Interviews are designed to assess your skills, experience, and suitability for the role, as well as to give you the opportunity to ask questions about the department and the position. Additional details, including the date, time, and format of the interview, will be provided directly to those selected.

Step 3 - physical testing, November 2nd to 13th, 2026

Applicants who advance past the Interview stage will be required to complete an Occupational Physical Assessment. The tasks in this assessment are designed to reflect the real-life duties of a firefighter.

The purpose of the testing is twofold: to give you a realistic understanding of the physical demands of the role, and to provide the Fire Department with a valid evaluation of your ability to safely perform the essential functions of the position.

Step 4 - selection, November 23rd to 27th, 2026

Following interviews and physical assessments, the Selection Committee will complete the final selection of suitable candidates. Those chosen will be contacted with an offer of employment and information on next steps in the onboarding process.

Suitable candidates will be required to:

Provide medical documentation from a physician stating they are medically cleared to perform the role;
Submit a Police Records Check through the Ontario Provincial Police; and
Submit an Ontario Driver’s License Abstract (a 3-year uncertified record).

Step 5 - orientation session, December 7th to 11th, 2026

Selected candidates will be invited to attend a mandatory orientation session at Kenora Fire Station 1. The session will provide an overview of Kenora Fire & Emergency Services, the recruit training program, role expectations, and gear sizing. Attendance is expected for all selected candidates. Applicants who are unable to attend the scheduled session will be required to complete an individual orientation meeting with before proceeding further in the recruitment process.

Step 6 - recruit training, begins January 2027

Selected candidates will be required to complete a structured Recruit Training Program. This training is designed to prepare new firefighters with the essential knowledge, skills, and experience needed to safely and effectively perform their duties.

Training will include online/classroom instruction and practical hands-on exercises. Successful completion of the Recruit Training Program and provincial certification testing is mandatory before being fully integrated into active duty.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for consideration as a Paid Per Call Firefighter for Kenora Fire and Emergency Services, you must:

have a principal residence and/or employment within the municipality or a reasonable response time to the fire station as time is critical in responding to emergency incidents.
provide proof of residence that you live within the fire station catchment area at time of application.
have a valid Class G driver’s license, have or be able to obtain, a valid ‘D’ Driver’s License with ‘Z’ endorsement and have an acceptable drivers abstract.
have a Grade 12 Diploma or the educational equivalent.
be able to communicate clearly and understand both orally and in written English.
be in good health and be capable of handling intense sustained physical effort.

Other general information

Training is provided in accordance with accredited standards of the National Fire Protection Association.

Paid Per Call firefighters receive remuneration for each hour worked and responding to incidents on a similar basis.

Paid Per Call Firefighters are supplied with personal protective clothing in accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and City of Kenora policy. Paid Per Call Firefighters are also provided with Workplace Safety Insurance.

Questions

Thank you for considering joining the Kenora Fire and Emergency Services. We acknowledge the effort every applicant puts into the pursuit of being a firefighter and their desire to assist in the protection of the community.

If you have any questions, please contact Fire Chief at 807-467-2094.