LANCASTER, Pa.-- The Lancaster Fire Department is facing its biggest loss of members in 20 years due to retirement. With a required retirement age of 60, the team will lose about 20 percent of its staff within the next one or two years.
Fire Chief Tim Gregg is taking an optimistic approach to the large amount of retirements. He states, "I wouldn't say it's a problem, it's an opportunity." The group is hoping to welcome young, educated, ambitious individuals to the department.
Firefighter Leander Toney Sr. says if you have a passion for helping others and your community, then this is the right job for you. Toney has served the Lancaster Fire Department for over twenty years.
Firefighters have a starting salary of about $40,000-$45,000 which increases to $60,000-$65,000 after five years. Promotional opportunities also arise once a member has gained more experience.
The application process for new firefighters starts Monday, June 1, and continues for two months. Chief Gregg encourages anyone to apply for the position. If you are interested, click here.