About IAFF Local 1747

Established on January 22, 1968, Kent Firefighters Local 1747 was formed when 18 members were inducted into the International Association of Fire Fighters. What began in a rural suburb south of Seattle has grown into a modern, regional fire service union representing more than 400 members serving over 260,000 residents.

Our History & Growth

During the 1980s and 1990s, Local 1747 grew alongside the City of Kent as expanded city limits and rapid urban development increased the demand for professional fire and emergency medical services.

• 2014: Consolidation of the SeaTac Fire Department, welcoming members of IAFF Local 2919.
• Maple Valley: Fire service contract bringing IAFF Local 3062 members into our ranks.
• 2023: Integration of IAFF Local 2088 through a contract for services with the City of Tukwila.

Today, Local 1747 proudly serves the cities of Kent, SeaTac, Covington, Maple Valley, Tukwila and Fire Districts #37 and #43 as part of the Puget Sound Fire Regional Fire Authority.

Who We Represent

IAFF Local 1747 represents the uniformed and non-uniformed members of the Puget Sound Fire Regional Fire Authority, including:

• District Chiefs
• Battalion Chiefs
• Captains
• Engineers
• Firefighters
• Nurses
• Social Workers / CARES professionals
• Fleet Mechanics

Our Mission

Local 1747 exists to protect the health, safety, and working conditions of our members while advocating for professional fire, EMS, and community care services in the communities we serve.

We support our members through collective bargaining, contract enforcement, training, political advocacy, and close partnership with Puget Sound Fire leadership.

Our Values

• Safety: Every member goes home.
• Integrity: Accountability and professionalism in all we do.
• Unity: One union representing multiple cities and job classes.
• Service: Commitment to the community and residents we protect.
• Tradition: Honoring our history while planning for the future.

Community & Charity

Local 1747 members regularly give back through charity events, community programs, and benevolent work. Whether it's supporting local families, participating in community outreach, or raising funds through sporting events, service extends beyond emergency response.

Union Advocacy

Local 1747 stands up for the rights of our members at the bargaining table, in the workplace, and in the political arena. We work to secure strong contracts, safe staffing levels, and the resources our members need to serve the public safely and effectively.

Career Opportunities

While Local 1747 represents more than 400 firefighters, officers, mechanics, nurses, and social workers, the union does not conduct hiring for the Puget Sound Fire Regional Fire Authority.

If you are interested in a career with Puget Sound Fire, there are two pathways depending on the position:

Firefighters (Entry-Level & Lateral)

All firefighter hiring is managed through Washington Fire Careers.
https://wafirecareers.org/

Non-Firefighter Positions

Hiring for roles such as nurses, social workers, and mechanics is handled directly by Puget Sound Fire.
https://pugetsoundfire.org/join-the-puget-sound-fire-family/