How to become a firefighter in GTAA Toronto Pearson

Verified 2026-07

Model B: Come pre-certified

OFAI FACT

OFAI FPAT

The Greater Toronto Airports Authority runs the fire service at Toronto Pearson and hires experienced professionals rather than new entrants: previous full-time certified firefighter experience is required, alongside HazMat Operations certification, an EMR or A-EMCA credential, and an Ontario DZ licence. The GTAA participates in the OFAI Candidate Testing Services pipeline, so valid OFAI Stages 1 to 3 are required, and working airside means a Transport Canada security clearance is a condition of employment.

NFPA 1001 Firefighter I and II plus HazMat Operations are required before applying. Budget for fire school before you can compete.

Requirements

Required at application

Previous full-time certified firefighter experience
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NFPA 472/1072 HazMat Operations
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Unrestricted Ontario Class D or higher with Z endorsement
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Grade 12
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EMR or A-EMCA
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Valid OFAI Stage One (FACT)
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Valid OFAI Stage Two (hearing, vision, treadmill)
Prepare with roadmap step 8
Valid OFAI Stage Three (FPAT)
Prepare with roadmap step 13

Required at conditional job offer

Transport Canada security clearance
Prepare with roadmap step 14

Worth knowing

Airport fire service operated by the Greater Toronto Airports Authority.
Participates in the OFAI Candidate Testing Services pipeline; certificates are portable across participating municipalities.

Official sources

Last verified 2026-07. Requirements change: the official posting always governs.

Semparo is not affiliated with or endorsed by GTAA Fire and Emergency Services (Toronto Pearson) or any testing vendor. This guide is independent preparation content.

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