Portage Fire Department
Where community service, professional growth, and the highest levels of emergency response come together — in Northwest Indiana.
A Legacy of Excellence
The Portage Fire Department is not just a place to work — it’s a place to grow, serve, and excel. We pride ourselves on diverse training opportunities, structured career advancement, and a community of professionals committed to safeguarding the lives and property of those we serve. Our rigorous training programs, career coaching, and comprehensive health and wellness initiatives underscore our commitment to every firefighter’s professional and personal development.
01 / About the Department
Our Department
Learn about Portage Fire and the community we serve.
Explore → 02 — HistoryOur Humble Beginnings
The rich history and foundational values that built the department.
Read More → 03 — ScheduleHow the Schedule Works
24-on / 48-off, Kelly time, and what your day-to-day looks like.
See the Rotation → 04 — StandardsWhy Paramedic Certification?
Understand our drive for medical excellence on every call.
Find Out →02 / Training & Career
Training & Continuing Ed
Our commitment to lifelong professional growth and certification.
View Programs → 02 — AdvancementCareer Advancement
Clear pathways to leadership, specialty roles, and rank promotion.
Map Your Path → 03 — Academy11-Week Fire Academy
The foundation of every Portage firefighter — and how it kickstarts your career.
Inside the Academy → 04 — Day OneWhat to Expect When You Start
From your first day through your first year and beyond.
Prepare →03 / Health, Wellness & Support
04 / Specialty Teams
Once you’re on the floor, you can specialize. Portage Fire fields some of the most respected specialty teams in Northwest Indiana — and members of those teams earn additional pay each year.
OverviewAll Specialty Teams
An overview of every specialty team at the department, what they do, and how to join.
Browse Teams →05 / Hiring & Application
Our Hiring Process
The step-by-step guide to joining our force — from application to academy.
Apply Now → 01 — TestLadder Climb Test
What it is and how to prepare.
Details → 02 — TestOur Swim Test
Why it’s required and what to expect.
Details → 03 — TestCPAT
Candidate Physical Agility Test — what to train for.
Details →06 / Compensation & Retirement
07 / Exploring This Career?
New to the fire service or thinking about a switch? Start here.
Career Change Guidance
Coaching and mentorship for those exploring a move into fire and EMS.
Get Direction → 02 — Entry PointBecome an EMT in Indiana
Your gateway into emergency services — and ultimately, the fire service.
Step-by-Step → 03 — Entry PointStart a Firefighter Career
How to begin a firefighting career in the State of Indiana.
Begin → 04 — Out of StateEMT & Paramedic Reciprocity
How out-of-state EMS providers can transfer their certification to Indiana.
Transfer In → 05 — CommunityDiscover Portage, Indiana
A city of natural beauty, lakefront access, and vibrant community life.
Visit Portage → 06 — ReadyJoin Portage Fire
A leader in public safety. When you’re ready to apply, start here.
Apply →Ready to Serve?
Competitive pay, top-tier benefits, one of Indiana’s strongest pensions, and a department that invests in your growth from day one. The patch starts with an application.
Looking to Apply? →