Careers at OFD

Employment Requirements

What does it take to be a firefighter for the City of Opelika? To be considered for employment with Opelika Fire Department, one must -

• be at least 18 years of age, have a valid drivers license
• pass a background check
• be recommended by the Opelika Fire Interview Committee
• pass or have current Candidate Physical Agility Test (CPAT)
• pass a medical exam
• pass the city's drug test requirements
• pass or meet other requirements established by the City of Opelika and/or the Opelika Fire Department.

Once a candidate meets these requirements, they can begin training in the certification process. 

Certification Training

The Opelika Fire Department hosts certification classes right here in Opelika because we have one of the best training facilities in the State of Alabama! In fact, our instructors not only train our own force of firefighters, they also help the State by training fire fighters from other communities in Alabama as well!

Opelika's Certification training takes a total of 560 hours (the state only requires 400) and includes the following subjects: Orientation and safety, Fire Department communications, building construction, ropes and knots, loss control, fire behavior, personal protective equipment, ladders, ventilation, forcible entry, water supply, portable extinguishers, fire hoses, rescue and extrication, sprinkler and alarm systems, fire streams and foam streams, fire control, hazardous materials, protecting evidence, and fire prevention and public education. Firefighter candidates are tested in all of these areas and must pass their exams before certification.

National Registry Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Course

In addition to the above, the National Registry Emergency Medical Technician course is taught. The training in this area includes: 

• CPR training (including the use of automated external defibrillation)
• Vital signs
• Taking a patient's history
• Correct procedures in lifting and moving patients
• Basic training in diabetic emergencies
• Injuries
• Bleeding and shock
• General pharmacology instruction
• Other courses too numerous to mention

Once certified, these new firefighters join the proud ranks of those who, like Opelika's police officers and linemen with the light and power department, are willing to put their very lives on the line to keep the citizens and businesses of Opelika safe and secure. They learn and memorize all of the subdivisions, streets, businesses and hydrant locations in our community. They maintain fire hydrants, constantly inspect the fire hoses, learn the art of arson detection, and continually review their basic training to maintain and improve upon the skills they've learned.