Volunteers

Volunteer Firefighter Program

Check back in Summer 2025 when the application period opens for the 2025 Fall Volunteer Recruit Fire Academy.

Are you interested in any of the following?

• The knowledge that you are giving back to your community by becoming a vital part of the fire and emergency response team
• Becoming a State of Oregon Certified Emergency Medical Technician
• Attaining a progressively higher skill set, including certification, as a Fire Fighter I and II, or Pump Operator, fully paid by the department
• Being trained and certified to apply to career positions
• Obtaining new and specialized skills through in-house and area-wide training

These interests can be fulfilled by becoming a volunteer firefighter with Cornelius Fire Department. You do not have to be a resident of Cornelius to be a volunteer. Out-of-district folks with a commitment to community service are welcome to represent the City of Cornelius and the Cornelius Rural Fire Protection District.
 

How are you trained to become a firefighter?

• Firefighters participate in a three month fire academy that is put on by the department
• Recruits attend classes and training three days a week (usually Friday, Saturday and Sunday). A total commitment of well over 350 hours over the three month period. Recruits are expected to attend most, if not all of the schedules training days.
• Once the academy is completed, recruits have the core firefighting skills to begin to serve the community and will work towards obtaining accredited certificates.
• Within a year of completing the fire academy, recruit firefighters are expected to become certified as a Firefighter, Medical Provider (Emergency Medical Responder, EMT or higher), Wildland Firefighter and HAZMAT Operations. Many of the tasks required for the firefighter and HAZMAT certifications are completed during the academy.
   

Student Volunteer Intern Program

If you are at least 18 years old with a valid driver's license and enrolled in either a Fire Science or EMS educational program, Cornelius Fire Department along with Forest Grove Fire & Rescue has an opportunity for you!

Overview of Program

• Earn a stipend per month while working alongside a career crew on a 24-hour on, 48-hour off schedule
• Be part of the first responding engine to fires and emergency medical scenes
• Develop skills that make you competitive for career jobs
• Network with industry professionals and subject matter experts
• Serve the community and help citizens in their time of need

Minimum Qualifications

• Complete application
• Pass background check
• Complete a FF1 academy (Chemeketa, PCC, outside agency, in-house, etc)
• Pass a standardized physical assessment (P/F)
• Pass written test on IFSTA; Essentials of Fire Fighting
• Complete an oral interview