Lateral Entry Firefighter

Vashon Island Fire & Rescue; Vashon (WA); On-site; USD 91,000 - 111,000; Full time

Job summary

Vashon Island Fire & Rescue seeks a Lateral Firefighter/EMT to join a dynamic public-safety team serving the Vashon community. Bring your firefighter/EMT experience to a department offering rope rescue, water rescue, and wildland operations.

Annual pay ranges from $90,790.80 to $110,720.40, with 100% employer-paid medical/vision/dental, retirement, and a 48/144 shift schedule. Must have WA EMT or NREMT, Firefighter I/II, and a valid WA driver’s license.

Qualifications

• Currently employed as a full-time career Firefighter/EMT (Two years’ experience preferred)
• Completion of a fire academy equivalent to King County Zone 3/SKCFTC Recruit Academy
• WA state EMT or NREMT certification (with ability to meet WA reciprocity)
• IFSAC or Pro Board Firefighter I and II certification
• High school graduate (or GED), at least 18 years old
• WA State driver’s license (or able to obtain within 30 days)
• Tobacco and marijuana free at pre-employment screening

Responsibilities

• Provide emergency medical services and firefighting as a Lateral Firefighter/EMT.
• Assist in rope rescue training and operations as applicable.
• Participate in wildland and water rescue programs as needed.

Job description

Join Vashon Island Fire & Rescue as a Lateral Firefighter/EMT

Surrounded by the beautiful Puget Sound, Vashon-Maury Island is a 37-square-mile gem just a short ferry ride from Seattle, Tacoma, or Port Orchard. The island offers a peaceful escape with charming farms, shops, beaches, and the iconic Point Robinson Lighthouse. Vashon Island Fire & Rescue (VIFR) proudly serves nearly 11,000 full-time residents, providing emergency medical services, fire suppression, and rescue operations.

Why Make the Move to VIFR?

• Dynamic, Supportive Team: VIFR is seeking experienced, motivated professionals passionate about public service and ready to bring their skills to a high-performing agency.


• Specialty Opportunities: Lateral firefighters at VIFR can expand their skills and take on advanced operational roles:
  
  
  
  • Rope Rescue Technician: VIFR has grown its rope rescue program, with two technicians assigned per shift and all career firefighters receiving operational-level rope rescue training.
  
  
  • Rescue Swimmer: The department has a rescue swimmer program, with training offered through the regional fire training consortium.
  
  
  • Wildland Team Firefighter: Firefighters have the opportunity to join the wildland fire team and deploy to fires statewide.
  
  
  
  

Position Details

• Title: Lateral Firefighter/EMT


• Annual Pay Range: $90,790.80 – $110,720.40 (2026)


• Benefits: 100% employer-paid medical/vision/dental premiums, 4.5% base wage employer contribution to deferred compensation, VEBA/HRA, disability coverage, LEOFF II retirement


• Schedule: 2,532 annual hours, 48/144 work schedule with debit days

Requirements - Some Requirements May be Waived

• Currently employed as a full-time career Firefighter/EMT (Two years’ experience preferred)


• Completion of a fire academy equivalent to King County Zone 3/SKCFTC Recruit Academy


• WA state EMT or NREMT certification (with ability to meet WA reciprocity)


• IFSAC or Pro Board Firefighter I and II certification


• High school graduate (or GED), at least 18 years old


• WA State driver’s license (or able to obtain within 30 days)


• Tobacco and marijuana free at pre-employment screening

Commitment to Diversity

Vashon Island Fire & Rescue is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status. All information provided will be used solely for employment purposes and not for discrimination.

If you’re an experienced firefighter ready to take your career to the next level—whether in rope rescue, water rescue, wildland operations, or traditional fire/EMS—VIFR offers the opportunity to make a real impact in a unique and welcoming community.