The firefighter hiring process involves an application, physical fitness and agility tests, background and reference checks, and follow-up interviews. Only a small percentage of candidates are offered a position after the elimination process, and those who are selected must go through training and a probationary period before becoming a firefighter.
In most areas, the firefighter hiring process starts with an application. Interviews are scheduled with candidates who meet the department’s requirements as outlined in the application information. Physical fitness and agility tests are commonly scheduled for candidates who go through the initial interview processes. There are background and reference checks performed on those who go beyond the physical component of the firefighter hiring process. Follow-up interviews are commonly used to further separate desirable candidates from those who will be dropped from the firefighter hiring process.
Many applications are accepted for each person selected to join the firefighter hiring process. The best of the best are often the only candidates chosen to advance through the firefighter hiring process, and of those chosen to participate in the selection process, only a small percentage will actually be offered a position with the fire department. The elimination process begins with an interview. While many candidates have the opportunity to interview, for many it often marks the end of the hiring process. Of those who are chosen to progress beyond this part of the process, physical tests will usually be scheduled.
The physical test is a mixture of medical tests, X-rays and blood tests combined with actual physical endurance and strength tests to determine the body’s conditioning, endurance and ability. Agility testing is usually combined with the physical part of the hiring process and is performed such as stair climbing drills, fire hose relays in the form of rolling and uncoiling the hose, as well as transporting the hose to the upper floors of a fire facility. test and have the time needed to perform the test recorded. For those who are selected to move forward at this point in the firefighter hiring process, follow-up interviews are usually arranged.
Follow-up interviews are usually completed by a panel or group. The applicant will be asked questions and interviewed by various members of the fire department, often including the fire chief. Background checks, including past employment history, criminal record, and reference checks, usually follow the panel interview. Any discrepancy with information reported on the application is usually grounds for removal from the firefighter hiring process. Successful applicants are usually given the opportunity to advance to the fire academy.
While at the academy, candidates will be tested and trained, with many candidates not meeting the minimum standards for firefighter trainees. The firefighter hiring process generally continues through the training period and into a trial period of employment with the fire department. Once the probationary period is completed, the candidate is given firefighter status and becomes a member of the force.
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