Fire Lieutenant

Overview

The Wilmington Fire Department is hiring Fire Lieutenants. The purpose of this position is to protect life and property of the citizens of Wilmington. It involves supervisory and technical duties in fire suppression, emergency medical care, hazardous materials incidents, fire personnel training and public relations. This role requires judgment, initiative, supervision, equipment maintenance oversight, and accountability for apparatus; it may involve serving on committees, acting as Fire Captain, completing reports, testing equipment, attending training, inspecting hydrants, and coordinating monthly training.

Performs all other duties as assigned by the Battalion Chief.

To be considered for this opportunity, applicants must submit a completed online employment application, the Career Plan Report, a Supplemental Questionnaire, and upload all required documents by the posting deadline. External candidates must upload certification/proof of each required qualification. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the application and/or supplemental questionnaire. Certification numbers will not be accepted in lieu of uploaded documents.

Internal candidates must submit a Letter of Recommendation from their supervisor and ensure all certifications are in their training folder. All communications regarding the selection process will be sent via email. Applicants are encouraged to check their emails after the closing date for correspondence. If selected to move forward, applicants will receive the test and interview dates and times and any supporting information needed.

Ensure the email on the application is current; update personal information as needed and adjust spam/junk/bulk settings to receive recruitment communications. Missing an email will not be an accepted justification for missed assessments.

The selection process includes the Career Plan Report, WFD Candidate School sessions, and testing phases. The Career Plan Report details the candidate’s professional growth and describes Experience, Formal Education, Professional Development, and Organizational Commitment. All assessment materials are provided to candidates at required WFD Candidate School sessions.

WFD Candidate School II:
All candidates must attend one of the following sessions to meet the qualification requirement. Attendance is recorded at the start of the meeting.

• January 27, 2026 at 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM EST
• February 3, 2026 at 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM EST

Candidates who pass the minimum qualification screenings proceed through the following phases. Phase II–IV have specific scoring and requirement criteria. A passing score of 70% or higher is required to move forward in Phases II–IV. The final list is determined by cumulative scores in Phases II–IV, with limited exceptions for ties and documented performance or disciplinary actions as per procedures. The eligible roster expires one calendar year from certification date.

External candidates selected for hire have an anticipated Lieutenant orientation date of May 4, 2026.

• Supervises personnel by prioritizing and assigning tasks, ensuring completion, conducting performance evaluations, identifying training needs, coordinating and presenting training, administering disciplinary actions per City policy, responding to citizen complaints and employee grievances, writing reports, maintaining personnel records, maintaining readiness, and communicating with personnel.
• Commands fire ground operations during emergencies by directing subordinates in fire suppression and control, using apparatus and equipment.
• Ensures safety and accountability of all personnel and citizens during emergency operations.
• Performs non-emergency operations and public relations by assisting the Fire and Life Safety division and working with the public to protect life and property.
• Performs administrative tasks by writing reports, serving on committees, maintaining records, and participating in policy and procedure reviews.
• Performs all other duties as assigned or necessary.

• Education and Experience – Internal Candidates:
  Associate’s…