Lateral-Entry Firefighter Position

cblaufuss
4 days ago
2 min read

Wenatchee Valley Fire Department (WVFD) is accepting applications for the position of Lateral Firefighter. Applications will be evaluated based on background, experience, training, and skills presented in the employment application packet.

Top scoring applicants will be invited to continue in the selection process. Background checks (driving, criminal, civil, and reference checks) as well as medical exams and drug screens will be conducted at the time of a conditional offer of employment. Veterans’ preference will be awarded consistent with RCW 41.04.010.

WVFD provides emergency response to structure fires, wildland fires, medical emergencies, hazardous material incidents, and technical rescues to approximately 81,000 citizens of our 211 square-mile response area. Department operations are conducted from eight 24-hour-staffed stations as well as two volunteer fire stations, a staffed shop, and a helicopter hangar.

SUBMIT COMPLETED APPLICATIONS NO LATER THAN 12:00 PM, PST FEBRUARY 2, 2026

PHYSICAL LOCATION: WVFD Station 10, 731 North Wenatchee Avenue, Wenatchee Washington

MAILING: Wenatchee Valley Fire Department, P.O. Box 2106, Wenatchee, WA 98807-2106

ELECTRONIC: twoods@wvfire.org

ATTN: Terri Woods – Executive Assistant

Minimum Qualifications

Lateral candidates must have worked consecutively over twenty-four (24) months with a city, fire district, county, RFA, or DOD Fire Department.

A high school diploma or GED equivalent

Possession, or ability to obtain a valid Washington State Driver’s License

Ability to read, write, and effectively communicate orally in English

Compensation and Benefits

Starting Salary: $43.72 Hourly, $9,107.35 monthly (based on 2500 hours per year)

Medical for Employee (100%) and Family (90%)

Dental insurance for Employee and Family (100%)

Health Reimbursement Account

Washington State LEOFF2 Pension and Deferred Compensation Benefit

Paid Vacation, Holidays, and Sick Leave

Download the Application:

Tentative Application Timeline

Application Packet Due	February 2, 2026
Notice of advancement / Interview instructions	February 3, 2026
Interviews	February 17 & February 18, 2026
Valid CPAT required	Provided by March 6, 2026
Chief’s Interview	TBD if needed
Conditional Offer of Employment	February 20, 2026
Background checks, medical evaluations, and drug testing	February 23 – March 6, 2026
Final Conditional Offer of Employment	March 6, 2026
First Day of Employment	April 1, 2026

Terri Woods – Executive Assistant, 509-662-4734 – twoods@wvfire.org