To Do's for New Recruits

After an official job offer is extended, there are a number of actions a Recruit must take immediately. Uniforms must be purchased, and details related to employment matters must be handled. Each Recruit will be issued a video and other instructional materials from the Training Division.

Before Recruit Training begins, a "Welcoming Orientation" is offered by the Seattle Fire Department for both the new Firefighter Recruit and his or her primary partner to learn more about the Training Program and what to expect, as well as ideas on how to prepare for this intensive time.

The Recruit Training Program is physically and mentally demanding. There are times that these demands on the Recruit may impact family members and/or partners. The Department offers Recruits a number of resources and support systems during this time.

Probationary Firefighter Status

Recruits who successfully complete the Firefighter Recruit Training Program become Probationary Firefighters and are assigned to an Operations Division company.  Firefighters remain on probation until successful completion of twelve (12) months of employment.

Written performance evaluations will be conducted each month and submitted through the chain-of-command to the employee's Personnel File.