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1. What is the program all about?

The Orange Beach Fire Department Resident Volunteer Firefighter Program (RVFP) is an exciting opportunity. The RVFP is designed to give young men and women an opportunity to pursue a career in Fire and Emergency Services.

Applicants that are accepted into the RVFP are expected to successfully complete Firefighter I/II training. After successful completion of the training program and receiving their Firefighter I/II certification, they will be assigned to a regular shift in the Orange Beach Fire Department where they will serve alongside our career members working twenty-four-hour shifts performing all of the duties of a firefighter, gaining valuable experience and training to prepare you for a career within a full-time fire department.

Additionally, applicants will be sent to school to become an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Advanced EMT (if already an EMT) to complete the training requirements for the RVFP. Participants can stay in the program for up to two years; a minimum of one-year commitment is requested. In exchange for this commitment to the RVFP, participants are provided with the following:

• Lodging, with all utilities, paid for
• Certification as a Firefighter I/II (based on successfully completing the course and passing the certification exam)
• Opportunity for additional fire service certifications (for example Apparatus Operator, Hazardous Materials Technician, Rope Rescue Technician, etc.)
• A monthly stipend
• An opportunity to become a certified Ocean/Surf Lifeguard (via the United States Lifesaving Association)

2. What are the requirements?

The Alabama Fire College and Personnel Standards Commission prerequisites for Firefighter training are:

• Applicants must be at least eighteen years of age
• Applicants must possess a high school diploma or equivalent (GED)
• Applicants must have successfully completed a Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT). More information about this test can be found on the Alabama Fire College website.

Please review the Physical Training Preparation for Firefighter Recruits (PDF).

Please view the Alabama Fire College CPAT: Candidate Physical Ability Test video regarding the CPAT certification testing requirements. This will give the candidate a basic understanding of what is involved in this test.

3. What documentation is required?

As a Resident Recruit, you are considered a temporary employee of the City of Orange Beach. This requires us to obtain certain information prior to your employment, including:

• A physical copy of your valid driver's license or CDL license (if applicable)
• A physical copy of your social security card. This is a federal requirement and can not be waived under any circumstances.
• Direct deposit banking information or voided check
• A pre-employment drug screen and physical are to be completed at least one week prior to your first day of attendance

Additionally, the Alabama Fire College requires additional documentation, including:

• Completed CPAT form
• A copy of the front and back of your health insurance card
• A copy of your high school diploma, GED, or equivalent
• Alabama Fire College registration form
• Alabama Fire College physical form (Please note: This physical is in addition to the physical required by the City of Orange Beach)

It is important to understand that this documentation is required and you will not be able to attend the program without the completion of this documentation.

4. Important CPAT Information

A current CPAT certificate is required to attend this program. Information about how and where to obtain a CPAT certification can be found on the Alabama Fire College website.

Mobile Fire Rescue is the closest available facility offering CPAT certification. You can schedule an appointment online.

5. What does the time commitment consist of?

The program will be held over a period of thirteen weeks beginning September 2023.

Tentative Dates

• May 15 to June 16, 2023: Application period. Apply for the Orange Beach Resident Firefighter Program. 
• June 29 to June 30, 2023: Candidate interviews and recruit selections (Gear and uniform sizing will be completed during the interview process, meaning all interviews must be in-person)
• Date TBD: Orientation and PT evaluation
• Date TBD: New hire paperwork, physicals, and drug screens
• September 11, 2023: Class begins
• December 8, 2023: Graduation

Please note: These dates are subject to change.

6. Who should I contact if I have more questions?

Questions regarding this program can be directed to:

• Assistant Training Chief Chance Ard
  Phone: 251-504-6038
  Email Chance Ard
• Captain Kevin Lanford
  Phone: 251-747-1957
  Email Kevin Lanford

For application information, or to check if your application was received, please contact:

• Kris Roberts
  Phone: 251-981-6392
  Email Kris Roberts

7. How do I apply?

Applications will open on May 15, 2023 and close on June 16, 2023. Apply for the Orange Beach Resident Firefighter Program.