The City of Rochester Summer Public Safety Intern Program offers an exciting training opportunity for high school graduates (ages 17–21) interested in pursuing a career in firefighting or emergency telecommunications.
The Summer Public Safety Intern Program serves as a pathway to take the City of Rochester’s Civil Exam for entrance into the Rochester Fire Department’s Firefighter Trainee Program and/or the Emergency Communications Department’s Public Safety Communicator exam.
The Summer Public Safety Intern Program features activities that will help participants explore their chosen careers through a challenging balance of classroom and hands-on learning. Classroom activities will focus on life-skills, decision-making, leadership development, and team building. Specific training will provide an overview of the basic skills required for firefighting and emergency telecommunications.
Upon successful completion of the program, participants will be eligible to take the Civil Service exam for a Firefighter Trainee position in the Rochester Fire Department or a Public Safety Communicator position in the Emergency Communications Department.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the 2024 Summer Public Safety Intern Program begin?
- Firefighting Intern classes take place July 15–Aug. 23 (6 weeks)
- Emergency Telecommunications Intern classes take place July 8–Aug. 2 (4 weeks)
- Applications are due by May 10
What time are the classes?
- Program hours are 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday
- Daily attendance is mandatory
Where are the classes located?
- Firefighting coursework and training will take place at 1190 Scottsville Rd., Rochester, NY 14624
- Emergency Telecommunications coursework and training will take place at 321 W. Main St., Rochester, NY 14608
Do program participants receive wages?
- Yes. Interns will be paid $16.79/hour, and must attend 30 hours per week with a 30 minute unpaid lunch period.
What information and training is included?
- Public safety industry professionals will lead career exploration discussions and demonstrations to provide an understanding of available career options.
- Skills in basic academics, general employability, job-readiness, and decision-making and occupation-specific activities.
- Industry-specific overview and history and the basic principles of their general management and operations.
What are the minimum eligibility requirements?
- High School Diploma or G.E.D.
- Valid NYS ID
- City of Rochester residency
- Age 17–21
- Successful pre-employment drug test and criminal background check
- Successful in-person interview
How do I apply?
- Apply in-person at City Hall, Room 103A. City Hall is open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
- Apply online:
Questions?