Intern Firefighter Positions
Benton County Fire District #4 (BCFD4) offers an intern firefighter program designed for individuals who want to build real-world experience while preparing for a career in the fire service.
Interns work directly alongside our career firefighters, participating in daily station operations, training, and emergency responses. The program provides hands-on experience that strengthens future applications for full-time firefighter positions.
BCFD4 serves the City of West Richland and surrounding county areas, responding to more than 2,300 calls each year. Our department operates from three stations and is staffed by a combination of career firefighters, interns, and volunteers.
Interns are assigned to the same 48/96 shift schedule as career staff, giving them the opportunity to fully experience the rhythm and expectations of a career department.
In addition to emergency response and daily operations, members of BCFD4 participate in specialized teams including:
- Swift Water Rescue
- Technical Rescue
- Incident Management
Working in this environment allows interns to gain experience across a wide range of emergency services while learning directly from experienced firefighters.
Position Requirements
Applicants must:
- Submit a complete and accurate application
- Be at least 18 years old at appointment and eligible to work in the U.S.
- Possess a high school diploma or GED
- Hold and maintain an insurable driving record
- Pass pre-employment written and physical agility tests
- Have a clear criminal history (no crimes against people, drugs, firearms, etc.)
- Successfully complete a background check
- Maintain physical fitness and be capable of performing all required firefighting, rescue, and emergency medical duties
Lateral Entry/Prior Experience
Applicants with current volunteer service or recent fire district or department experience may be considered for lateral entry within the intern program. All minimum requirements must still be met, and applicants must achieve a passing score during the testing process to advance.
If you have questions, please email us at [email protected] or call 509-967-2945.