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Professional Development Captain (Fire Captain Zone 3)

New Hanover County
New Hanover County Salary
Wilmington, NC Full Time
POSTED ON 7/25/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 8/23/2026
Position Information

Are you an experienced Fire Protective Services professional looking to make a difference in a thriving community? Look no further! New Hanover County Fire Rescue is seeking eligible Professional Development Captain (Fire Captain Zone 3) candidates with strong leadership, incident management, organizational skills, and attention to detail, who will be assigned to the Professional Services Division. Professional Development Captain duties may include coordinating and monitoring training, creating training content, managing department training programs, onboarding, processing training requests, and completing special projects as assigned. The Professional Development Captain may be reassigned to any division per the fire chief based on current staffing needs.

Essential Duties

  • Coordinates and instructs training to shift personnel.
  • Manages the department training programs, including certification programs, development training, continuing education, and on boarding for all personnel.
  • Serves as a program lead; Collects, analyzes, reports program data, and makes recommendations based on that data.
  • Participates in quarterly and annual presentations of program data and trends.

New Hanover County Fire Rescue is comprised of a team of dedicated emergency response professionals who work to educate and protect citizens from the threats of fire and other emergencies. Our employees stay committed to the county's model of good governance working rotating 24-hour shifts in eight (8) fire stations to protect a 328 square-mile district in the unincorporated county. The department is a combination department which offers opportunities for those who wish to volunteer their time or start their own career with training in the fire protection industry. Ideal candidates for the fire department combine the department's values of honor, dedication, compassion, service, and excellence with the county enterprise-wide values and vision of a vibrant, prosperous, and diverse coastal community committed to building a sustainable future for generations to come.

New Hanover County is dedicated to the recruitment and recognition of a talented and diverse workforce that is committed to public service. Our shared values of professionalism, equity, innovation, integrity, stewardship, and accountability guide the way we conduct ourselves and deliver services to our customers. Supported by the work of our Office of Diversity and Equity, New Hanover County celebrates diversity in our employees’ backgrounds, beliefs, identities, and abilities, and supports equitable and inclusive policies and growth opportunities. Our talented team has a passion for providing care and services that effect change in the everyday lives of the citizens they encounter. The differences that unite us are a reflection of the community we serve. If this sounds like an organization that models the values you uphold, we invite you to join our team at New Hanover County.

Living In New Hanover County, NC

New Hanover County offers an exceptional quality of life with its picturesque coastal location. Enjoy the stunning beaches, water activities, and a variety of recreational opportunities right at your doorstep. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, indulge in diverse dining experiences, and explore historical landmarks. The county is known for its strong sense of community, excellent schools, and a thriving arts scene. With a focus on good governance and a commitment to customer service, New Hanover County provides an ideal environment for both personal and professional growth.

* * * *

Hours

Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Must be available to work during emergency situations (Description of work hours above does not apply in emergency situations).

Salary Information

The hiring range for this position is $72,667.00 - $94,554.00. Salary will be determined based on qualifications, internal equity, budget, and market considerations.

New Hanover County Offers

  • Employer paid 401k contributions;
  • Retirement plan through the NC Retirement system;
  • Flex time and telework availability, depending on your position;
  • Paid sick and personal leave 13 paid holidays per year;
  • Paid parental leave;
  • Paid community services leave to give back to our community;
  • Education leave to obtain a degree within your line of work;
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance many other insurance options;
  • Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center;
  • Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives;
  • Opportunities to make a difference in your community;
  • And so much more!

Please check out our careers page at www.nhcgov.com/careers for more information on why New Hanover County is a great place to work.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience:

  • High School diploma or equivalent, and six (6) years of related fire service experience or five (5) years firefighting experience with New Hanover County Fires Services; or an equivalent combination of training and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the specific position as listed above.

Licenses/Certifications

  • Required Licenses/Certifications at time of application:
  • Valid North Carolina Driver License required by first date of employment with good driving record.?
  • North Carolina Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).
  • Firefighter accredited certification through International Fire Services Accreditation Certification (IFSAC) or ProBoard (NFPA 1001) or Firefighter II accredited certification through IFSAC or ProBoard (prior edition standard NFPA 1001).
  • Driver Operator Aerial accredited certification through IFSAC or ProBoard.
  • Driver Operator Pumps accredited through IFSAC or ProBoard.
  • Technical Rescuer Rope Rescue Technician accredited certification through IFSAC or ProBoard (NFPA Standard 1006, 2021) or Technical Rescuer accredited certification through IFSAC or ProBoard (NFPA standard 1006, 2013 edition Chapters 5 & 6) or Technical Rescuer General accredited certification through IFSAC or ProBoard (NFPA standard 1003, 2008 edition) and Technical Rescuer Ropes accredited certification through IFSAC or ProBoard (NFPA Standard 1006, 2008 edition).
  • Technical Rescuer Common Passenger Vehicle Technician accredited certification through IFSAC or ProBoard (NFPA Standard 1006, 2021) or Technical Rescuer Vehicle accredited certification through IFSAC or ProBoard (NFPA Chapter 10) or Technical Rescuer VMR accredited certification through IFSAC or ProBoard (NFPA Standard 1006, 2008).
  • Fire Officer 1 accredited certification through IFSAC or ProBoard.
  • Fire Instructor 1 accredited certification through IFSAC or ProBoard.
  • Fire Instructor 2 accredited certification through IFSAC or ProBoard.

Required As a Condition Of Continued Employment

Must be obtained no later than one (1) year of employment

  • North Carolina Delivery Agency Proctor Qualification.

Must be obtained no later than two (2) years of employment

  • Fire Officer 2 accredited certification through IFSAC or ProBoard
  • Fire Instructor 3 accredited certification through IFSAC or ProBoard.

Must be obtained no later than three (3) years of employment

  • Instructor qualification in one (1) area.

Preferred Certifications

  • NC Delivery Agency Proctor Qualification
  • Center for Public Safety Excellence Fire Officer designation preferred.

Other Information

Important Information About The Application Process

Candidates are expected to thoroughly complete each relevant section of the online application and attach in the attachments section a current DOI certification transcript, EMT Certificate, educational documentation, and any other applicable training, experience, or relevant information necessary to determine qualifications. Omitted or incomplete information may result in disqualification from the selection process. Attachment of a resume and cover letter is strongly preferred.

Upon the closing date for this position posting, applications will be screened by the Human Resources Department and candidates meeting the requirements will be referred to the department for consideration. Referred candidates will receive a Candidate Assessment Process Packet via e-mail from the fire department detailing the selection process and next steps. Please be sure to check your e-mail for communication so we may proceed with recruitment in a timely manner.

Required

Selected candidates will be required to participate in the Candidate Assessment Selection Process and may include some or all the following assessments:

Fire Team Promote Testing System

Panel Interview

Written assignment and/or Oral Presentation

Physical Agility Assessment (External candidates only)

Applicant Information

After the closing date applications will be screened by Human Resources. Applicants referred to the department will receive an email requesting important information pertinent to the position applied for. All updates regarding an application can be viewed through your applicant portal.

New Hanover County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

New Hanover County offers a competitive benefits package designed to encourage and support your health, well-being and productivity to include

  • Employer paid 401k deferred compensation contributions (5% for sworn law enforcement and 2.5% for all other benefits eligible positions);
  • Retirement plan through the NC Retirement system;
  • Paid sick and personal leave 13 paid holidays per year;
  • Paid parental leave;
  • Paid community services leave to give back to our community;
  • Education leave to obtain a degree within your line of work;
  • Medical, dental, vision insurance many other insurance options;
  • Employee assistance program;
  • 100% employer paid long term disability;
  • Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center which includes a nurse practitioner and physical therapist;
  • Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives;
  • Opportunities to make a difference in your community;
  • And so much more!

Benefit options for eligible positions include medical, dental, elective supplemental insurance options including short-term disability, vision, flexible spending accounts, voluntary term life, cancer, accident, and critical illness policies. Employees who elect medical and dental insurance within the specified timelines provided during on-boarding, will have coverage effective on their date of hire. For more information about New Hanover County benefit options, including our benefit rates, please click here.

Please check out our careers page at www.nhcgov.com/careers for more information on why New Hanover County is a great place to work.

Note: All positions listed as temporary, casual part time, volunteer, and intern are not eligible to receive benefits. Part-time position with fewer than 20 scheduled hours per week will not include benefits.

01

Are you currently a paid or volunteer firefighter for New Hanover County Fire Services?

  • Yes
  • No

02

Indicate the length of your firefighter experience.

  • No firefighter experience
  • Less than 1 year firefighter experience
  • 1 year but fewer than 2 years firefighter experience
  • 2 years but fewer than 4 years firefighter experience
  • 4 years but fewer than 6 years firefighter experience
  • 6 or more years of firefighter experience

03

Please indicate the highest level degree in Fire Science or a related field that you hold from an accredited school.

  • No degree in Fire Science or a related field from an accredited school
  • Associate's Degree in Fire Science from an accredited school
  • Bachelor's Degree in Fire Science from an accredited school
  • Master's Degree in Fire Science from an accredited school
  • Associate's Degree in a related field
  • Bachelor's Degree in a related field
  • Master's Degree in a related field

04

If your degree is in a field related to Fire Science, please indicate how your degree is related.

05

Do you have 60 or more semester hour's credit towards a Bachelor's Degree?

  • Yes
  • No

06

Indicate the length of experience as a NHC Fire Captain.

  • No Fire Captain experience
  • Less than 1 year Fire Captain experience
  • 1 year but less than 2 years Fire Captain experience
  • 2 years or more years Fire Captain experience

07

If applicable indicate the length of experience working as a full-time Firefighter/Apparatus Operator (FFAO) with New Hanover County Fire Services

  • No FFAO experience with New Hanover County
  • Less than 1 year FFAO experience with New Hanover County
  • 1 year but less than 2 years FFAO experience with New Hanover County
  • 2 years but less than 3 years FFAO experience with New Hanover County
  • 3 years or more FFAO experience with New Hanover County

08

If applicable, provide the date you became a full-time FFAO with New Hanover County.

09

Are you able to work rotating days and/or shifts including holidays?

  • Yes
  • No

10

Are you available to work extended hours during emergency situations?

  • Yes
  • No

11

Do you have a NC Driver's License, class B?

  • Yes
  • No

12

Have you had your driver's license suspended for any reason in the last three years?

  • Yes
  • No

13

Do you currently hold a Firefighter accredited certification through IFSAC or Pro Board (NFPA 1001)?

  • Yes
  • No

14

If you currently hold a Firefighter accredited certification through IFSAC or Pro Board (NFPA 1001) indicate the date received

15

Do you currently hold a Firefighter II accredited certification through IFSAC or Pro Board (prior edition standard NFPA 1001)?

  • Yes
  • No

16

If you currently hold a Firefighter II accredited certification through IFSAC or Pro Board (prior edition standard NFPA 1001) indicate the date received

17

Do you currently hold a NC or National Registry EMT Certification (if National Registry, NC EMT certification must be obtained within 1 year)?

  • Yes
  • No

18

If you currently hold a NC or National Registry EMT Certification (if National Registry, NC EMT certification must be obtained within 1 year) indicate the date received

19

Do you currently hold a Emergency Vehicle Driver accredited certification through IFSAC or Pro Board?

  • Yes
  • No

20

If you currently hold a Emergency Vehicle Driver accredited certification through IFSAC or Pro Board indicate the date received

21

Do you currently hold a Fire Officer 1 accredited certification through IFSAC or Pro Board?

  • Yes
  • No

22

If you currently hold a Fire Officer 1 accredited certification through IFSAC or Pro Board indicate the date received

23

Do you currently hod a Fire Instructor 1 accredited certification through IFASC or Pro Board?

  • Yes
  • No

24

If you currently hold a Fire Instructor 1 accredited certification through IFSAC or Pro Board indicate the date received

25

As a reminder, candidates are expected to thoroughly complete each relevant section of this application. Incomplete, partially complete, or omitted information may result in disqualification from the selection process. Have you included all the required information on your application?

  • Yes
  • No

26

As a reminder, candidates must submit a Fire/EMS certification transcript and EMT certificate . Applications without a transcript or EMT certificate will not be considered. Have you attached the required documents to this application?

  • Yes
  • No
  • Required Question

Salary : $72,667 - $94,554

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