Firefighter Recruit

The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) is a unique and dynamic place to work, with a bold plan to make Toronto Pearson, Canada’s leading global hub airport, a global leader in airport performance, customer care and sustainability. Together with our partners, approximately 2,100 GTAA employees are working to create a next-generation airport by innovating in all we do and striving for the most uplifting, safe and efficient experience for our passengers – all while championing the prosperity of our people, the community we call home, and our aviation partners. Join us on our journey together, as we put the joy back into travel and make Toronto Pearson the chosen place to fly and work.

A career as a GTAA firefighter is both complicated and rewarding. Working under the general direction of the Fire Chief and supported by a dynamic leadership team, firefighters are located in one of three fire stations that provide emergency response at Toronto Pearson International Airport. On average, firefighters respond to approximately 5500 emergency incidents annually. All firefighters at the GTAA are members of the Pearson Airport Professional Firefighters' Association, Local 4382, International Association of Firefighters (IAFF).

This full-time, on-site Firefighter Recruit position is classified at the “Firefighter Recruit” level. The recruitment process includes assessments and a panel interview, which will be administered only to selected applicants.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Fight fires and respond to medical emergencies and technical rescues (ropes, confined spaces, motor vehicle collisions).
• Perform fire ground and rescue operations for structural and aircraft emergencies.
• Educate the public about fire prevention and fire safety practices.
• Respond to hazardous materials emergencies.
• Conduct inspections.
• Maintain firefighting apparatus, equipment and fire stations.
• Work and support as a member of the larger Fire and Emergency Services team.
• Perform Pre-Incident Planning.
• Perform other projects and duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Pre-Requisite Firefighter Training verification of one of the following components:
• OFM/OAFC Pre-Service Firefighter Education and Training Program Certificate or approved equivalent NFPA-1001 level 1 & 2, IFSAC, Pro-Board, IFE; or
• Ontario Firefighter Certification with firefighting experience; or
• Previous experience as a full-time certified firefighter; and
• NFPA-472 or 1072, Hazardous Materials Operations level certification (including mission Specific PPE and Mission Specific Product Control), IFSAC, Pro-Board, IFE)
• A valid Ontario unrestricted Class “D” driver's license or higher (A, B, or C) with “Z” air brake endorsement.
• A minimum of a Secondary School Diploma (Grade 12 or academic equivalent).
• A valid Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) and Level C CPR certificate. Candidates who currently hold an Advanced Medical Care Assistant (A-EMCA) certification will be considered as it exceeds the EMR competency level.
• A valid OFAI Candidate Testing Service certificate (Stages 1, 2, and 3) which must be current and valid upon the posting closing of November 23, 2026 and at time of a conditional offer.
• Ability to obtain and retain a Transportation Canada Security Clearance.
• Ability to demonstrate a high standard of professionalism and ability to solve complex problems.
• Ability to demonstrate leadership; work collectively as a member of dynamic team.
• Ability to communicate effectively both writing and verbally; have a high attention to detail.
• Ability to understand and communicate clearly in English under stressful conditions.
• Ability to work a 24-hour shift (weekdays, weekends and statutory holidays).
• Proficiency in computer applications such as Microsoft Word and Outlook and basic skills in Excel.
• Excellent interpersonal, customer approach and organizational/time management skills.
• Physical fitness to handle the sustained, driven, physical effort required to perform their duties.
• Ability to demonstrate integrity, character, positivity, is team oriented, genuine and considerate.

Recruitment Process

• Online Application: including resume and cover letter in one single PDF document
• Resume Screening: to ensure minimum qualifications are met.
• Psychometric testing: to evaluate cognitive abilities and personality traits
• Video Screening Interview with Human Resources: a preliminary video interview designed to assess your initial qualifications, experience, and overall fit for the role.
• Panel Interview to evaluate skills, traits and competencies.
• Job Offer; Steps 7 and 8 begin once acceptance is received
• Pre-Employment Comprehensive Medical Assessment (GTAA Functional Testing, Drug and Alcohol testing, Medical Testing Services, Respiratory Testing, Bloodwork, Medical Lab Services, Physician Medical)
• Background, Criminal Record, Driver’s Abstract, Employment and Refence Checks

Preparing for firefighter aptitude testing is an important step in the hiring process for Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) applicants. Most candidates write a standardized cognitive test (FACT or CPS) before progressing to the interview stage.

Our practice tests mirror the format, timing, and difficulty of real firefighter aptitude exams. Build confidence with full-length FACT and CPS practice tests and detailed explanations.