Frequently Asked Questions

The Orange Beach Fire Rescue Firefighter Internship Program is an exciting opportunity for young men and women to pursue a career in Fire and Emergency Services.

Applicants that are accepted into the program will receive Firefighter I/II training. After receiving their Firefighter I/II certification, they will be assigned to a regular shift within the 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 here in Orange Beach.

This program provides free educational opportunities to obtain Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Advanced EMT (if already an EMT) certifications along with the ability to obtain other certifications from the Alabama Fire College. Due to the level of investment in each participant, a minimum of a one-year commitment is requested. 

In exchange for this commitment, participants are provided with the following:

• 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.)
• EMT or Advanced EMT certification
• A monthly stipend
• An opportunity to become a certified Lifeguard (via the United States Lifesaving Association)
• Invaluable experience serving your community preparing you for a rewarding career in fire and emergency services

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.

Each year, applications for the Fall class open in May and close at the end of June. 

As an intern, 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.

Yes, you may still apply. However, a current CPAT certificate is required in order to interview for this program. Interviews will be held mid-July. Information about how and where to obtain a CPAT certification can be found on the Alabama Fire College website.

Daphne Fire and Mobile Fire are the closest available facilities offering CPAT certification. You can register to take the best at Mobile Fire Rescue here, and Daphne Fire Department here. 

Need help passing the cpat? Give us a call, we are more than happy to help. We can give you some pointers and/or you can join us in some training sessions. Call, text, or email one of our Training Officers for more information

Each intern will receive a $10,000 annual stipend and many non-monetary incentives such as: Firefighter I/II training and certificate, EMT training, top of the line equipment and personal protective equipment, work 24 hours on/48 off to allow for part time employment

Accommodations that were provided to the former resident program are no longer available. Students are responsible for securing their own housing for the duration of the internship program.

Dates

• May-June: Application period. 
• Beginning of July: Applicants will be informed they will be moving to the next level 
• Early July: Meet and Greet
• Mid-July: Interviews and recruit selections (Gear and uniform sizing will be completed during the interview process, meaning all interviews must be in-person)
• September: Orientation and PT evaluation
• September: New hire paperwork, physicals, and drug screens
• Mid-September: Class begins
• Mid-December: Graduation

Please note: These dates are subject to change.

Questions regarding this program can be directed to:

• Training Officer Michael Lucas
  Phone: 251-484-0741 (text or call)
  Email Michael Lucas
• Training Officer Austin Lesinger
  Phone: 251-215-5064 (text or call)
  Email Austin Lesinger
• Training Officer Zac White
  Phone: 251-597-9827 (text or call)
  Email Zac White

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

• Kris Roberts
  Phone: 251-981-6166
  Email Kris Roberts