Application period OPEN for firefighting positions at CRFD
February 27, 2025
Individuals who have dreamed about a career in the fire service now have the opportunity to be considered for open positions at one of the busiest departments in South Carolina.
The Columbia-Richland Fire Department kicked off 2025 by opening its application period for new firefighter hires. Both applicants new to firefighting and ones with prior experience are encouraged to apply. Experienced candidates who possess the necessary certifications will be considered for the CRFD Direct Hire Program.
“Our department really has a lot to offer for anyone that has a desire to serve the community,” said Columbia-Richland Fire Chief Aubrey D. Jenkins. “Firefighters working here get the training and experience to handle a wide array of emergencies. In 2024 alone our crews working across Richland County responded to more than 38,500 calls for service. This shows just how much our citizens depend on us during times of great need. Now our department is in need of committed and motivated individuals who can help us complete our daily mission.”
At this time CRFD’s base starting pay for a firefighter is $43,800. Recruits who meet the necessary qualifications and are hired into our Direct Hire Program will be paid at that rate to start. Non-certified hires must complete training before they will be eligible for the $43,800 annual earning. During training, they will receive pay at a rate of $34,900 annually.
CRFD firefighters are also eligible for incentive pay available to candidates who possess higher ed degrees (Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Master’s) or EMT, Rescue and/or HAZMAT certifications. All firefighters are also eligible for extra pay through overtime opportunities!!
Other benefits of being a firefighter with CRFD include:
- Low cost healthcare for employees and their families under SC PEBA (group health, group dental and group eye insurance plans)
- Paid holidays and vacation time
- Entry in the SC PEBA State Retirement Program
- Opportunities to enroll in the SC Deferred Compensation Program (401K/ 457)
- FREE annual gym membership and access to city gym
- Automatic enrollment and access to benefits with the SC State Firefighter’s Association
- Paid class time
- Flexible spending accounts
- And much more!!
Prospective applicants can visit colafire.net to access the City of Columbia’s career portal. There they can submit an application as a ‘Certified Firefighter’ or ‘Non-Certified Firefighter.’ The non-certified position is for applicants that are new to the firefighting profession.
All applicants with prior firefighting experience and Firefighter I and II certification through IFSAC and or Pro-Board will be eligible for CRFD’s Direct Hire Program. The program features an abridged training academy that enables hires to reach active service with the department in fewer weeks. Those who qualify can apply with the city as a ‘Certified Firefighter.’
Applicants with questions are encouraged to contact CRFD Recruiting Officer James Bostic by calling 803-545-3331 or sending an email to [email protected]
