Become a Firefighter with the Veterans Health Administration
Are you a dedicated professional looking to apply your firefighting and emergency medical skills to a noble cause? The Tomah VA Medical Center is currently recruiting for a Firefighter (Basic Life Support) to join its team. This role is essential for ensuring the safety of our veterans, staff, and facilities.
Job Responsibilities
As a Firefighter at the Tomah VA, your daily duties are multifaceted:
- Fire Suppression: Effectively controlling and extinguishing fires using modern equipment and tactics.
- Emergency Medical Support: Providing non-invasive basic life support and stabilizing patients for transport.
- Fire Prevention: Conducting rigorous inspections of fire protection features, including sprinkler systems, smoke barriers, and fire exits.
- Safety Equipment Maintenance: Regularly inspecting and testing emergency equipment to ensure constant operational readiness.
- Training: Engaging in pre-incident planning and training to keep the facility safe.
Qualifications and Requirements
To be considered, candidates must meet specific criteria, including:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Age | Under 37 years at appointment (exceptions apply) |
| Certifications | Firefighter II (IFSAC/Pro Board), HAZMAT Operations, BLS, NREMT-Basic |
| Training | ICS 100, 200, 700, and 800 certificates |
| Background | Must pass security and drug screening |
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $50,460 to $65,599 per year. Beyond the base pay, the federal government offers a robust benefits package, including:
- Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) pension plan.
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with employer matching.
- Comprehensive health and insurance coverage.
- Generous paid time off.
Application Tips
- Resume Precision: Keep your resume to two pages, focusing on relevant accomplishments.
- Detail is Key: Clearly define your previous work hours per week; the agency does not make assumptions about your experience.
- Documentation: Have your SF-50s and DD-214 ready if you are a current federal employee or a veteran.
Serving as a firefighter for the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to protecting the heroes who protected our country. If you meet the criteria and are ready for a challenging, rewarding career, we encourage you to apply before the closing date of October 28, 2026.
Why This Firefighter (Basic Life Support) Job Matters
Launch a mission-driven career protecting those who served by joining the Tomah VA Medical Center firefighting team.
Firefighter (Basic Life Support) Job Overview
The Tomah VA Medical Center is seeking a dedicated Firefighter (Basic Life Support) to join its Facilities Service Line. In this critical role, you will perform fire suppression, rescue operations, and emergency medical services while ensuring the safety of our veterans and facility grounds. You will operate specialized fire equipment, conduct rigorous fire inspections, and serve as a vital part of a professional team committed to excellence in fire prevention and public safety.
Requirements for Firefighter (Basic Life Support)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must be under age 37 at time of appointment (unless eligible for veteran/prior-service exceptions)
- Valid State Driver's License
- Basic Life Support (BLS) / CPR Certification
- IFSAC/Pro Board Firefighter II Certification (NFPA 1001)
- IFSAC/Pro Board HAZMAT Operations Certification (NFPA 1001)
- Incident Command Systems (ICS) 100, 200, 700, and 800
- National Registry Emergency Medical Basic License
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening
- Must undergo a background and security investigation
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Firefighter (Basic Life Support)
- IFSAC/Pro Board Apparatus Operator - Pumper certification
- IFSAC/Pro Board Fire Inspector I & II certification (must be obtained within 24 months of hire)
- Documented specialized firefighting experience equivalent to the GS-6 level
- Prior experience in organized military, industrial, or government fire departments
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs
- ✓Defined benefit pension plan through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions
- ✓Paid federal holidays, sick leave, and vacation time
- ✓Opportunities for professional training and career development
- ✓Supportive work environment dedicated to veteran healthcare
💡 How to Apply Firefighter (Basic Life Support) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Firefighter (Basic Life Support) Job
- Review the full announcement on USAJOBS and prepare all required documentation.
- Ensure your resume is formatted to be exactly two pages or less.
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the online application questionnaire and upload necessary documents like your SF-50 and certifications.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of October 28, 2026.
- Complete any required USA Hire Assessments if prompted via email.
💡 General Tips
- Prioritize your most relevant, recent experience to fit within the two-page resume limit.
- Clearly state your duties, employment dates, and hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting, and use a standard sans-serif font.
- Don't rely on assumptions—be explicit about how your experience meets the GS-7 qualifications.
- Track your application status regularly through your USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the age requirement for this firefighter position?
Applicants must not have reached their 37th birthday by the date of appointment. Exceptions exist for individuals with prior covered federal firefighter service.
Can I apply if I don't have all the certifications yet?
You must possess the basic certifications (Firefighter II, HAZMAT Ops, BLS, and EMT) at the time of application. Certain apparatus and inspector certifications can be obtained after hire.
Is a physical agility test required?
Yes. Candidates must demonstrate the physical ability to perform essential tasks, which may include a formal task demonstration or review of prior performance.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation's military. The Tomah VA Medical Center, located in Wisconsin, provides comprehensive care to veterans throughout the region. Joining the fire department here means becoming part of a community that values service, compassion, and excellence.