Solon Fire Department Looking to Recruit

CEDAR SPRINGS — The Solon Township Fire Department is currently seeking motivated local residents to join the department as paid on-call firefighters as emergency call volume continues to rise throughout the community.

Over the past decade, the department has experienced a dramatic increase in calls for service. Annual incident totals have grown from 351 calls in 2012 to a record-setting 600 calls in 2025, an increase of more than 70 percent. Department officials say the continued growth highlights the increasing need for dedicated firefighters and first responders willing to serve their community.

“Solon Fire is always looking for dedicated people,” said Fire Chief Rich Hays. “As the population of the township grows our call volume is also increasing.”

Firefighters with the department respond to a wide variety of emergencies including structure fires, medical emergencies, motor vehicle accidents, severe weather incidents, rescue calls, and other public safety situations.

Responsibilities include conducting firefighting operations, operating fire equipment and tools, providing emergency medical assistance within the scope of practice, assessing hazardous situations, and participating in ongoing training related to firefighting, rescue operations, disaster response, and emergency medical care.

The department is looking for individuals who are dependable, physically capable, and possess a strong team-player attitude. Candidates should have good communication and interpersonal skills and be able to lift equipment weighing 50 pounds or more.

Minimum qualifications include:

High school diploma or GED

Valid driver’s license

At least 18 years of age

Ability to pass a background check, drug and alcohol screening, and medical and physical examinations

Ability to obtain Firefighter II and Medical First Responder certifications

This is a paid on-call position, and applicants must live within Solon Township or in close proximity to qualify.

Anyone interested in serving their community and learning more about the opportunity can apply online using the Solon Township Fire Department Employment Page or contact the Solon Township Fire Department office at (616) 696-0020.