Why Kenosha Fire Department?
Our Firefighter/EMTs serve roughly 100,000 residents.
We're a busy department responding to nearly 15,000 calls for service annually & perform life saving services every day!
KFD provides annual training and professional development.
What’s the application process?
Check out the timeline below to make sure you’re staying on track during the recruitment process! All communication will be via the email used on your application. Be sure to check your email regularly throughout the process for the most up-to-date information.
Application Deadline: May 15, 2026
Include any of the following certifications/diplomas you’ve earned prior to May 15, 2026, including: High School, and/or College/University Diploma, CPAT Certificate, EMT License, Firefighter I Certification, Firefighter II Certification, Driver/Operator - Aerial Certification, and Driver/Operator-Pump Certification.
Attachments are only required if you have earned the degree or certificate prior to the application deadline
Later in the recruitment process, Human Resources will email you when it's time to send any additional degrees/certifications that you may have earned after May 15, 2026. Please do not send them before being asked.
HELPFUL TIP: START LOOKING FOR CPAT TESTING AND LOCATIONS. THESE CAN TAKE UP TO 6 WEEKS FOR COMPLETION
Written Exam: June 20, 2026
Sign up email will be sent to applicants on May 19, 2026 - review & follow emailed instructions
Virtual written exam can be taken anywhere/anytime on June 20 !
You can review study guides & practice testshere.
Panel Interviews: August 2026
CPAT (Candidate Physical Ability Test) Completion Deadline: October 23, 2026
Please note: Applicants are responsible for finding a CPAT testing facility on their own, and completing the CPAT may take UP TO 6 WEEKS.
KFD reimburses up to $100 for CPAT completion for candidates who pass panel interview
Chiefs Interviews: November 2026
Job Offers: November 2026
Physical, Drug Screen, Psychological Exam and Background Check: November/December 2026
Police & Fire Commission Appointment Approvals: February 2027
Start date: March 2027
Basic Recruit Training (BRT): March 2027 - Late May/Early June 2027
BRT Graduation: Late May/Early June 2027
Probationary period: First year following BRT graduation
Does KFD have residency requirements?
Yes,you must reside in the Wisconsin counties ofKenosha, Racine, Milwaukee, Walworth, or Waukesha or Lake County, Illinois by the completion of your one year probationary period.
Is this position represented by a Union?
Yes, this position is represented by Local 414 of the International Association of Firefighters (AFL-CIO-CLC) and is covered by a fair share agreement.
Can’t find the answer to your question in the job posting? Please emailhumanresources@kenosha.org
What do we do?
Respond to emergencies including, but not limited to, fire and medical calls for service
Operate fire suppression tools and equipment (e.g. power saws, ground ladders, fans, extrication equipment)
Perform search and rescue operations when required
Perform emergency medical skills and procedures within scope of practice
Participate in public education events (e.g. Fire Safety House, station tours)
Participate in monthly continuing education in both Fire and EMS
Conduct pre-fire planning inspections
Minimum Qualifications:
Minimum age of eighteen (18).
High school graduate or equivalent.
Valid driver's license.
Ability to obtain and maintain WI EMT license & fire certifications required to perform firefighting duties by required deadlines following the start of employment.
Successfully complete 2027 Basic Recruit Training with or without a reasonable accommodation by the date of graduation.
Obtain a CPAT certificate
Must have reliable transportation.
Read, write, speak, and understand the English language.
No criminal convictions substantially related to the duties and responsibilities of the position.
Must be able to perform the essential functions of the Firefighter/EMT position with or without a reasonable accommodation.
Essential Job Tasks:
Perform fire-fighting tasks (e.g. hoseline operations, extensive crawling, lifting and carrying heavy objects, ventilating roofs or walls using power or hand tools, forcible entry), rescue operations and other emergency response actions under stressful conditions while wearing personal protective ensembles and self - contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
Climbing 6 or more flights of stairs wearing fire protective ensembles weighing at least 50 lb (22.6kg) or more and carrying equipment/tools weighing an additional 20 to 40 lbs (9 to 18 kg).
Searching, find and rescue - dragging or carrying victims ranging from newborns up to adults weighing over 200 lb (90kg) to safety despite hazardous conditions and low visibility.
Advancing water-filled hoseline up to 2 1/2 in. (65 mm) in diameter from fire apparatus to occupancy (approximately 150 ft. (50M))
Climbing ladders, operation from heights, walking or crawling in the dark along narrow and uneven surfaces.
Unpredictable emergency requirements for prolonged periods of extreme physical exertion without benefit of warm-up.
Functioning as an integral component of a team, where sudden incapacitation of a member can result in mission failure or in risk of injury or death to civilians or other team members.
Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills:
Ability to learn a wide variety of firefighting and rescue duties within a reasonable probationary period.
Ability to effectively problem solve, react quickly and calmly, use sound judgment, and interact with others during a crisis or emergency situation.
Ability to learn & perform basic first aid techniques.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public.
Ability to create accurate records and reports.
Ability to handle reasonably necessary stress.
Physical Requirements:
The task involves the regular, and at times sustained, performance of heavier physical tasks such as walking over rough or uneven surfaces, bending, stooping, working in confined spaces, and lifting or carrying moderately heavy (20-50 pound) items and occasionally very heavy (100 pounds or over) items; or may involve the complex operation of gasoline, electric, or diesel-powered machinery or shop equipment requiring the manipulation of multiple controls, fine adjustments or both.
Environmental Requirements:
Task requires that work be performed in adverse environmental conditions.
Sensory Requirements:
Tasks require color, sound, odor, depth, texture, and visual perception and discrimination.
Tasks require oral communication ability.