LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Those interested in joining the ranks at the Louisville Fire Department still have time to sign up for the next recruit class.

The application window opened June 2 and will close at 11:59 p.m. Friday.

Starting pay is more than $66,000 annually, and no college or previous experience is required. Many firefighters earn close to $80,000 after five years.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, a clean criminal record and a valid driver's license to join the team. 

Louisville Fire Capt. Donovan Sims said the department intends to keep growing after celebrating its 167th birthday June 1. 

"Our numbers are already looking great," Sims said Thursday. "We're at over 800 applicants, and it's great to know people want to invest in this career, investment in the job that I love, we love. We've been doing this a very long time and we need you to come out and try it out."

Firefighters work 24 hours on duty and then are off 48 hours on a continuous three-day rotation.

There are numerous benefits, including retirement eligibility after 25 years, paid vacation, tuition reimbursement, health insurance and more. 

If you're interested in joining, click here to begin the application process.

For those who pass a written test, timed agility test, interviews and a background check, the fire academy lasts 26 weeks — about six months.

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