Firefighter

Firefighter

The City of La Crosse is accepting applications for the purpose of establishing an eligibility list for full-time entry-level and lateral transfer Firefighters. Responsibilities include working as a team member to prevent and suppress fires, protect life and property and to provide medical assistance as an emergency medical technician. Successful applicants must possess a current WI Firefighter II certification, a current National or State of Wisconsin EMT license at time of hire, an associate degree in Fire Science or related field preferred; or equivalent knowledge, skills, and abilities. This is an entry level position with an annual starting salary of $65,316.00. Additional pay is available for candidates with a Paramedic license. Experienced candidates may qualify for additional starting pay and increased vacation based on years of service with previous agencies.

Benefits: The City of La Crosse offers a comprehensive benefit package including medical insurance, voluntary dental and vision plan, Wisconsin Retirement plan, flexible spending account, deferred compensation, Roth IRA, life insurance, accident insurance, income continuation insurance, paid holidays, paid vacations, paid sick leave, and a variety of wellness initiatives. Benefit perks: choice of two medical benefit plans, participation in the Wisconsin Retirement System, 11 paid holidays.

Documentation of certifications must be provided when application is submitted. Additionally, applicants must be U.S. citizens, have a valid unrestricted driver's license, and a high school diploma or GED. Medical, vision and hearing requirements shall be in accordance with NFPA standards 1582. Tobacco use is prohibited on and off duty. Applicants are subject to post offer/pre-employment drug screen, physical exam, psychological exam, and background check.

Please upload documentation confirming your WI Firefighter II certification, National or State of Wisconsin EMT license, FireTEAM (Ergometrics) exam results, and a CPAT certificate. Applicants who do not have the above requirements at time of application should attach a document stating the status of the certifications.

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. For complete application instructions, visit Applicants who submit a completed application packet by December 20, 2026 and meet minimum qualifications may be invited to participate in an initial interview on January 11, 2027.

Applicants must submit as part of their application package:

• Online Application
• Resume
• Wisconsin Firefighter II Certificate
• National or State of Wisconsin EMT License
• FireTeam/Ergometrics Exam Results
• CPAT Certificate

To apply, visit the web address listed above. Follow the prompts to complete and submit an application. Applicants are required to attach a resume, Wisconsin Firefighter II certificate, National or State of Wisconsin EMT license, FireTeam/Ergometrics exam results, and a CPAT certificate when submitting an application. Applicants who do not have the above requirements at time of application should attach a document stating the status of the certificates.

Applicants who meet the basic requirements and have all application materials on file will be invited by the City of La Crosse to participate in the following:

• January 11th, 2027: Interview with the Fire Department Management Staff
• January 15th, 2027: Human Resources Phone Interview
• January 20th, 2027: Police & Fire Commission Interview and Chiefs Interview

Applicants that pass the initial interview with the Fire Department may be invited to participate in a screening interview with the Human Resources Department followed by an interview with the City of La Crosse Police & Fire Commission and Fire Chief's. Those applicants that pass the interview with the Commission are then placed on an eligibility list used to fill future vacancies.