Brandon Fire and Emergency Services (BFES) has launched a recruitment drive seeking firefighter/paramedics to bolster its ranks and help protect the city and nearby areas. The campaign comes as the City of Brandon manages its 2026 budget process and serves a growing population of more than 53,000 (about 53,230) residents.
BFES provides emergency coverage for Brandon and nearby municipalities including Cornwallis, Elton and Oakland-Wawanesa. According to the department’s recruitment information, the competition will help fill current vacancies and create a short list of qualified candidates for future hires.
Brandon operates a dual-service model in which firefighter/paramedics are cross-trained to provide both fire suppression and primary-care paramedic services. Applicants are required to meet several qualifications: completion of Grade 12 (or equivalent); a College of Paramedics of Manitoba Primary Care Paramedic (PCP) Certificate of Practice (or proof of being in the process of obtaining licensure); relevant firefighter training (for example, Public Fire Protection Program / NFPA 1001 Level I & II or equivalent); a valid Manitoba Class 4 driver’s licence with air endorsement; satisfactory criminal record and child-abuse registry checks; and the ability to meet medical and physical fitness standards required by the department.
Brandon’s Fire Chief, Terry Parlow, has said crews were busy responding to multiple structure fires in early January, and the department has continued to operate despite cold conditions (Brandon Sun, Jan. 4, 2026). This recruitment drive coincides with City of Brandon budget deliberations: council will deliberate the proposed 2026 municipal budget on Jan. 30 and Jan. 31, 2026, which includes a proposal that would require an additional $6.3 million in municipal revenue according to local coverage.
Prospective applicants should apply online via the City of Brandon Job Bank (jobbank.brandon.ca). The City’s recruitment posting indicates applications will be accepted until the competition is filled; candidates are advised to apply promptly, and many local notices encouraged submissions in late January 2026. Successful candidates will take part in the department’s recruit training program (often referred to as a ‘boot camp’) and ongoing in-house training to prepare for the physical and operational demands of the role.
