How to get hired at Orange County Fire Rescue Department

Written by a career firefighter · Updated 2026-11-04

Hiring statusStatus unknown

Recruit page says 'Now Accepting Interest Cards', and the department says it is currently hiring certified firefighters and civilian paramedics; no recruit application dates are posted. Interest card: http://ocfrd.com/interestcard src

LocationWinter Park, FL

Career firefighters1,150

Stations42

Orange County Fire Rescue recruits on two tracks, certified firefighters and non-certified recruits, and sponsors paramedic certification for its firefighters. Candidates submit an interest card so recruiters can send hiring deadlines and testing dates, then apply through the county jobs portal. The first physical screen is the CPAT, which is offered monthly.

Apply / get notified Official recruitment page

Minimum requirements

Physically fit and of good moral character src
US diplomas or degrees from USDE/CHEA-accredited schools; foreign credentials evaluated by a NACES/AICE member at applicant's cost src
Pass the CPAT src

Certifications

EMT: unknown
Firefighter I/II: unknown

Source: official page

Tests

CPAT (physical): Timed 8-event test offered monthly; dates posted on department Facebook src

Hiring process

Submit interest card
Apply through Orange County jobs portal
CPAT

Source: official page

Checked 2026-11-05 against the department's official pages (linked). Hiring windows open and close quickly; always confirm on the official site before you apply. See every academy, EMT program and test site in Florida.