Through a testing process an eligibility list for the position of
Firefighter/Paramedic is established every two years, and is advertised
in local/regional newspapers, on multiple job search engines and on
this website. The testing process to establish a
current eligibility list was conducted August 28, 2010.
General Requirements
- Age 21 upon application
- U.S. citizen
- High school graduate or GED
- Vision correctable to 20/30
- Pass a medical exam
- Proof of completion of Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)
Hiring Process
Fire Department applicants obtain a position on a preliminary eligibility list based upon their written exam score. Those who qualify continue in the selection process which includes:
- Psychological Evaluation
- Polygraph
- Background Investigation
- Oral Interview
- Medical Examination
Eligibility List
The final eligibility list is established by the Board of Fire & Police Commissioners and remains in effect for two years. Applicants, not selected for further evaluation after the written exam, may be contacted to continue the process if the final eligibility list is exhausted of candidates within two years.
Basic Training
Following successful completion of basic fireman ship (Firefighter I & II) training at a certified fire academy, recruits are schooled in hazardous materials and emergency medicine. Initial training, to the level of EMT-P (Emergency Medical Technician - Paramedic) status, is attained during the probationary period.
Probation
Recruits are subject to a one-year probationary period during which overall job performance is under intense scrutiny. The following certifications/licenses must be attained during this period:
- Firefighter II
- Hazardous Materials Awareness
- Hazardous Materials Operations
- EMT/Paramedic
- Technical Rescue Awareness
Within five years of employment
- Firefighter III
- Fire Apparatus Engineer
Career Development
Additional certifications and duties may become available or be assigned during the course of employment in the following areas:
- Fire Inspection
- Fire Investigation
- Public Education
- Hazardous Materials Response
- Technical Rescue
- Underwater Rescue & Recovery