What does it require of me?

The ideal candidate would adhere to the Department's Core Values.

Paid on Call Candidates must live in the POC Boundaries. You can find them at the bottom of this page.

The Ottawa County Fire Academy typically runs January through June each year. This is your "Firefighter Basic Training." After you complete and pass this course, you will be issued a State of Michigan Firefighter I and II certificate. This allows you to work for any Department in the State of Michigan.

Classes are typically on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, from roughly 6pm-10pm. There are some Saturday sessions (8a-5p ish) as the weather warms up.

Once you have your Michigan Firefighter I &II in hand, the real fun can begin. We'll show you how to use the skills you learned with the equipment we have. You'll be one of the best prepared Firefighters in the County.

Upon completing our Field Training & Orientation program successfully, you'll gain clearance to be allowed on the first-in-the-door hoseline team going into a housefire. You'll work alongside seasoned Full- and Part-Time members.

If you have found your passion for serving others, you may wish to apply to be sponsored by the Department to gain your Michigan EMT-Basic licensure. This is a medical license that allows your to assess, treat, and monitor patients in the field. This class is usually between 4-6 months, two evenings a week.

Blood isn't really your thing? Not a problem. This training and skill set is not required to be a POC Firefighter.