Dearborn Looking To Recruit More Firefighters, Paramedics

DEARBORN, MI — Dearborn launched a new training program aimed at bringing in more firefighters and paramedics, amid a shortage across Michigan.

The new program allows aspiring firefighters and paramedics who have completed some level of firefighter training to be hired as firefighter candidates.

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Only those who have successfully obtained state certification as a Firefighter 2 and as an EMT-Basic can apply for the program.

This new idea is focused on increasing application rates while providing the rest of the required education and training for firefighters to earn their complete certifications and paramedic license.

After completing the program and earning their certifications, the firefighters will automatically transition into the Firefighter 1 position within the department.

The program also encourages fully certified individuals to apply for an increase in the starting salary and the opportunity for firefighters from other communities to purchase prior service time.

"This collaborative agreement between the Department and the Union is a well thought-out and proactive approach to meet the challenges associated with the national shortage of firefighter/paramedics," Dearborn Fire Chief Joseph Murray said. "This agreement eliminates potential barriers to acquiring certifications for those interested in fire service, while also incentivizing those who are fully certified to seek out employment with the DFD."

Recently, Dearborn Mayor Abdullah and the Dearborn City Council approved a measure to increase the number of sworn firefighters from 146 to 158, the highest staffing level in the department's 119-year history.

"The members of Dearborn Firefighters Association L412 are happy to collaborate with Mayor Hammoud and the Fire Chief," Dearborn Firefighters Union President Jeffrey Lentz said. "This agreement will provide a pathway for the city to not only address the shortage of firefighter applicants, but it will also help maintain the high level of service our members deliver to our residents."

Applications for Dearborn Fire Department employment can be found at Dearborn.gov/Jobs.