Job Summary

As a Purdue University firefighter, you will respond to fire, EMS, hazardous materials, and rescue incidents in a unique University environment. EMS services are provided at the Advanced Life Support level with two transport ambulances and an ALS certified engine. All staff are certified in Airport Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF), hazardous materials response, and a variety of technical rescue specialties.

The Purdue Fire Department proudly supports the entire Purdue University – West Lafayette campus, including the Purdue Airport, Athletics, and all major university events.

Our firefighters actively engage in emergency response, company level training, fire prevention activities, and public education to ensure safety and preparedness across the entire campus community.

Overview of Hiring Process

 PUFD is accepting applications for three new firefighter positions between 12/15/2025 and 01/15/2026.

All candidates who meet the minimum requirements and complete the application process will be invited to participate in the selection process. Candidates will receive an email with additional information and instructions for scheduling the first interview. Only the most competitive candidates will advance beyond the first interview. Candidates must present a valid CPAT card at the time of the first interview.

Important Dates:

• Application Deadline: 1/15/2026
• CPAT Required: 1/26/2026
• Firefighter Interview Panel: 1/26/2026 and 1/27/2026
• Chiefs Interview Panel: 2/4/2026
• Anticipated Start Date: 03/23/2026

About Us

When you join Purdue University, you join a community that keeps moving forward. For more than 150 years, we’ve been known for not only our groundbreaking work in STEM research, but also for our collective imagination, ingenuity and innovation. 

What We're Looking For

Education and Experience:

• High School Diploma or High School Equivalency (HSE)
• Indiana Firefighter 1 & 2 (within 12 months of employment) 
• Certification as an Indiana or Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technician (or ability to complete within 6 months of employment) 
• Current Indiana Paramedic license or NREMT-P
• Must have successfully completed Hazardous Materials Technician certification or be able to complete within twelve months of employment in this position.
• Valid CPAT card prior to first interview
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• A valid US or Canadian driver’s license
   

Skills Needed:

• Must be:
  • physically and mentally capable of performing all duties of a firefighter and EMT/paramedic
  • able to lift and carry 50-80 lbs. frequently, up to 100 lbs. or more occasionally and drag up to 165 lbs.
• Must complete the Purdue Firefighters Physical Abilities Test annually
• Prior to employment, candidates must complete a strict physical and psychological exam, background investigation, and have successfully completed the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) 
• Must have:
  • knowledge of the principles and processes for providing good customer and personal services.
  • strong oral & written communication skills.
• basic computer skills
  
  

Preferred:

• One year of experience as an EMT or Paramedic
• One year of experience as an Indiana Firefighter I/II

Additional Information:

• Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position  
• A background check will be required for employment in this position
• FLSA: Non-Exempt (Eligible for Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility:  Non-exempt Defined Contribution Plan
• Benefit Statement: Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days

Career Stream

Fire, Police, and Skilled Trades 1

• Pay Band S055
• Job Code #20002717

Career path maker: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/careerpathmaker/

Salary and Benefits

Purdue Fire Department salaries are based on a competitive matrix that is based on job title, level of EMS certification, and years of service.

• Starting pay for the current fiscal year is: $73,547.71.
• The current pension base is: $79,857.84.
• Longevity pay up to $9,000 with 24 years of service.
• Specialty pay up to $3,000.
• $6,000 sign-on bonus for licensed Indiana Paramedics or NREMT-P eligible for reciprocity. ($3,000 paid with first paycheck, $3,000 paid on completion of 1 year)
• Paid vacation, paid/floating holidays, and paid sick leave.
• Purdue Police Officers and Firefighters Pension

Who We Are

Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Purdue University is an EOE employer.