Town of Banff

Joining the Banff Fire Department

Banff's Fire Department has a long and storied history in the National Park.

From time to time we recruit on-call firefighters to join our team.

All applicants must live and work in Banff for at least one year, be at least 21 years old, have grade 12 (or equivalent), class 5 licence with abstract and pass an RCMP criminal background check. Your employer must sign a letter of agreement stating that you can respond to emergencies during business hours.

Apply during a recruitment process. Complete an application and submit a resume. 

Successful candidates participate in a round of practical physical evaluations.  This typically includes a claustrophobia test (a blackout maze); an acrophobia test (75 foot ladder climb); hand over hand hose hoist; and a coupling manipulation test. After physical testing, applicants are interviewed by at least three members of the Banff Fire Department.

The selected candidates must attend a 6 to 8 week training class, two days a week with a minimum of four hours per class. After the training class is completed,  those who pass will become probationary firefighters and will attend weekly training sessions of four hours.

After one year probationary, firefighters may become regular 4th class firefighters, on-call part-time paid. Weekly training sessions continue and members are expected to work some weekends in the summer season.

Duties include responding to all nature of emergencies including; fires, medical assistance, motor vehicle collisions, and rescue operations.

The minimum requirements are just that. Helpful additional skills include: experience in building trades (electrical, construction, plumbing etc.), the proven ability to work under pressure and work well in a team, first aid and CPR, as well as O2 therapy and AED training. Previous firefighting experience or training does not weigh very heavily in the selection process.

For more information contact Banff Fire Department at 403.762.1256