Pemberton Fire Rescue: Paid-On-Call Recruitment 2024

Recruitment Information

For those who are interested in becoming a member of Pemberton Fire Rescue, the following information will be helpful in determining if firefighting is right for you.

Pemberton Fire Rescue operates a “Paid on Call” model or what is more commonly known as a volunteer service. This means that members do not work at the fire hall on a full-time basis but rather respond to calls when alerted by radio 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

As well as attending emergency call outs, members are also expected to attend scheduled weekly training sessions, assist with the delivery of fire prevention, and public education programs, and help with community events and fundraisers.

Being a member of the fire department can be extremely rewarding, but it takes some serious commitment and may not be for everyone. Firefighting is very mentally challenging, physically demanding, and those considering applying to be a member must understand that you will be asked to perform in what may often be stressful or dangerous conditions.

The following questions and answers may be helpful.

What do members of Pemberton Fire Rescue do?

Members provide a wide range of services to the community including structural fire suppression, wildfire response, emergency medical response, motor vehicle rescue, Haz-mat response as well as delivering fire prevention and public education programs.

What are the minimum requirements?

You must be at least 19 years of age, must live within 8km of the Village of Pemberton, possess a current valid class 5 driver’s license with satisfactory abstract, have a clear criminal record and be physically capable of performing the duties of a firefighter.

Are Firefighters paid?

Members receive an honorarium for attending call outs and are also paid a flat rate honorarium for attending training sessions.

How much time will I need to commit?

The time commitment for call outs varies. Generally, call out times are less than one hour but can be up to several hours. Members are expected to attend scheduled three-hour training sessions on Wednesday evenings as well as other periodic training sessions on weekends. New members must maintain 100% attendance to training for their six (6) month probationary period and 75% thereafter.

Do I have to pay for any training or clothing?

No. All costs associated with training members will be paid for by the department and all required protective clothing will be provided.

How often does the department hire?

The decision to bring on new members is dependent on the current number of active members. Typically, the department runs with a roster of 35 to 40 members but may fluctuate up or down given the needs of the department. Hiring is usually done once a year in the fall, but applications are reviewed when received. If there is no hiring at the time of application, the applicant will be notified, and the application will be kept on file until the next hire.

What is the process to apply to Pemberton Fire Rescue?

Individuals wishing to become members of Pemberton Fire Rescue need to start by filling out an application form and submitting all requested documentation to the fire department. The application package can be attained at the Fire Hall located at 1350 Aster Street or on the Village of Pemberton website. All applications should be either e-mailed to pfradmin@pemberton.ca or delivered in person to the Pemberton Fire Rescue Hall.

Once the application has been received, it will be reviewed and if all requirements are met the applicant will be notified to schedule an interview. If successful in the interview, the applicant will be asked to complete a physical assessment. Upon successfully meeting all the criteria, the applicant may be offered membership as a recruit firefighter with the department.

Questions?

If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact Pemberton Fire Rescue directly at pfradmin@pemberton.ca or 604-894-6111.

Accepting applications from September 5 - 22, 2023. To apply, please download the application package below:

Application package