Troy Volunteer Firefighters
Join the Legacy. Protect Your Community. Be The Difference.
Step up to a challenge that matters. Become a volunteer firefighter with Troy Fire Department and make an impact that lasts a lifetime. Your community needs you—are you ready to answer the call?
Our Proud Legacy of Service
For over 80 years, the Troy Fire Department has been a cornerstone of community protection, evolving from a small group of dedicated citizens into a well-equipped and highly trained volunteer force. Our story began in 1940 with 19 founding members, and today, we stand strong with six fire stations and nearly 180 volunteers. Each member continues the proud tradition of serving and safeguarding our community, upholding the values that have defined us for generations.
Anyone Can Make a Difference
At Troy Fire Department, there’s a role for everyone. Whether you’re on the front lines fighting fires, managing emergency operations, or supporting essential behind-the-scenes tasks, you can make a difference.
Balancing Volunteering and Everyday Life
Volunteering as a firefighter is a rewarding challenge, and we know that balance is key. Our department values your time and understands that your family and career come first. That’s why we work closely with our volunteers to find a schedule that fits your life.
Our volunteers come from all walks of life, managing careers, families, and personal commitments while serving the community. With strong time management and a supportive network, you’ll find that volunteering enhances, rather than disrupts, your everyday life. The sense of fulfillment and camaraderie you’ll gain is unmatched.
Build Skills That Last a Lifetime
Being a volunteer firefighter is about more than just courage and dedication—it’s about growth. While you may start with a passion for helping others, your time with the department will allow you to develop essential skills that will serve you both on and off the job.
Key traits you’ll develop include:
- Problem-solving: Quickly assess situations and find effective solutions under pressure.
- Teamwork: Collaborate seamlessly with others to achieve common goals.
- Leadership: Guide and inspire your peers in challenging circumstances.
- Resilience: Stay strong and focused in the face of adversity.
- Adaptability: Adjust to new situations and challenges with confidence.
- Communication: Clearly convey information and instructions in critical moments.
Volunteer Benefits
Unbreakable Bond
Being part of the Troy Fire Department means joining a tight-knit team where the bonds you form are unlike anything you’ll find in your personal or professional life. This camaraderie is built on trust, shared experiences, and a collective mission to protect the community. It’s an environment where people from all walks of life come together, forming connections that last a lifetime.
Personal Growth & Fulfillment
Volunteering as a firefighter offers more than just the thrill of the job. You’ll gain valuable skills like leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork that enhance both your personal and professional life. The sense of fulfillment you’ll experience from making a real difference in your community is unparalleled, providing you with a profound sense of purpose.
Valued Commitment
Volunteering with the Troy Fire Department is about more than just serving your community—it’s about being recognized for your dedication over the long haul. After 10 years of service, you’ll receive a substantial payment in the form of $75,000. And every 5 years after that, your ongoing commitment is rewarded with an additional $10,000 to $15,000. It’s our way of showing that your time and effort truly matter.
Volunteer Inquiry
Have questions? Need more information? Ready to take the next step? Send us an inquiry and we’ll reach out to you.
Steps to Become a Volunteer Firefighter
Volunteering as a firefighter is a rewarding challenge, and we know that balance is key. Our department values your time and understands that your family and career come first. That’s why we work closely with our volunteers to find a schedule that fits your life.
Submit an Application
Begin by filling out the online volunteer firefighter application. This is your first step toward joining a team dedicated to protecting the community.
Interview With Station Leader
Meet with our leadership team to discuss your motivations and qualifications. This interview is an opportunity to showcase your commitment and passion for serving.
Complete Training Academy
This academy is designed to equip you with the essential skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience needed to handle real-world emergencies with confidence. The best part? The City of Troy covers the full cost of your training, investing in your growth and ensuring you have everything you need to succeed.
Requirements to be a Firefighter
Becoming a volunteer firefighter with the Troy Fire Department is a commitment to your community, and we’re looking for individuals who are ready to step up. To ensure our volunteers are fully prepared for the challenges they’ll face, there are several key requirements you’ll need to meet. These standards help us maintain the high level of service and professionalism our community deserves.
- Live or work within three (3) miles of a Troy Fire Station*
- Be at least 18 years of age and a high school graduate, or possess a GED equivalent
- Possess a valid Michigan driver's license
- Complete the on-line volunteer firefighter application form
- Submit to a background check
- Submit to one or more interviews
- Submit to a medical examination
- Submit to a physical agility test
Common Questions from New Recruits
What are the basic requirements to become a volunteer firefighter with the Troy Fire Department?
To become a volunteer firefighter, you must live or work within three miles of a Troy Fire Station, be at least 18 years old, and possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent. You’ll also need a valid Michigan driver’s license, reliable transportation, and be ready to submit to a background check, medical examination, and physical agility test.
What is the process for becoming a volunteer firefighter?
The process begins with submitting an online application, followed by a background and driving record check. You’ll then participate in one or more interviews with our station officers. If selected, you’ll need to complete the Firefighter Training Academy, which is the same rigorous program required for full-time firefighters and is fully funded by the City of Troy.
How does the Troy Fire Department balance volunteer firefighters' availability with their personal and professional lives?
The department understands the importance of maintaining a balance between volunteering, work, and family life. Volunteers can block off 60 hours each week where they are not expected to respond to calls. Outside of these hours, volunteers are only required to respond to 50% of the runs, allowing for flexibility and manageable time commitment.
What kind of training will I receive as a volunteer firefighter?
All volunteer firefighters must complete the Firefighter I & II training academy within their probationary period. This comprehensive training is the same as that for full-time firefighters and equips you with the skills needed to handle emergency situations. Additionally, volunteers are required to attend a minimum of 80 hours of training annually to maintain their skills.
What are the physical demands of being a volunteer firefighter?
Firefighting is physically demanding, requiring strength, endurance, and agility. The department strongly encourages maintaining a healthy lifestyle and physical fitness. You’ll undergo a physical agility test as part of the application process, and continued physical fitness is important for both safety and effectiveness on the job.
How is the Troy Fire Department structured?
The Troy Fire Department operates with a unique combination of 180 volunteer firefighters and 13 uniformed career staff members. The department is comprised of six strategically located fire stations, ensuring full coverage of the city. While volunteer firefighters handle the majority of emergency responses, career staff members focus on administrative duties, training, equipment maintenance, and community risk reduction.
Will I be required to respond to medical emergencies?
The Troy Fire Department is a non-EMS (Emergency Medical Services) department, so you will not be required to respond to medical emergencies. However, all members are trained in CPR and AED. This significantly reduces the likelihood of encountering situations involving serious injuries or traumatic scenes.
What are the benefits of becoming a volunteer firefighter?
Volunteering offers numerous benefits, including comprehensive training, personal and professional growth, and the satisfaction of serving your community. You’ll develop critical skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership, all while building strong bonds with your fellow firefighters.
