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Updated Tuesday, June 17, 2003
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Northwest Fire Careers FAQ Page The following statements are general answers. For more information contact the Fire Department of interest.
What is the standard procedure for an entry level firefighter exam? How can I prepare for Firefighter exams? What is the Minimum and Maximum age when applying for firefighter? Do any Northwest Fire Department's have lateral hiring? What salary range can be expected for Firefighters in the Northwest? Must you be a citizen of the United States to become a Firefighter?
Standard entry level Firefighter exam procedures Most Fire Department in the Northwest have a testing process that involves at least 3 phases. 1. The Written Exam: This is usually the first step in the testing process. The exam can be a test of general knowledge, such as basic math, grammar, spelling and mechanical aptitude. In some departments it can be a test of knowledge relating to the fire service. 2. The Physical Agility Exam. Usually a series of events used to measure the applicants strength, agility and cardiovascular capabilities. This exam can be performance based or simply pass fail. 3. The Oral Interview/Assessment. This step of the exam process can range from an interview in front of a panel of Fire Department personnel to a more thorough assessment process. Assessment exams can monitor your ability to think on your feet, handle stress and work with others.
Each of the steps an applicant takes in the firefighter exam process can benefit from test preparation. 1. The Written Exam: There are many books available that can help prepare you for the entry level Firefighter exam. Try your locale library, bookstore or online try www.firebooks.com as a resource. 2. The Physical Agility Exam: Find out if the exam is performance based. If it is, training for the specific events is helpful. In general, try a routine that includes a good regiment of cardiovascular, strength training and flexibility work-out phases. 3. The Oral Interview/Assessment: This step is often overlooked from a preparation standpoint, but this is an important area that usually has lots of room for improvement. Online try www.firebooks.com for books that help you prepare specifically for this segment.
Most fire department's have a minimum age requirement between the ages of 18 and 21 years old. Most department's do not have a maximum age requirement for the position of Firefighter.
In Washington State a few Departments test for Firefighters with previous experience. Most departments test for entry level only. In Oregon some departments only hire firefighters that have Paramedic certification.
Beginning Firefighter salaries range from $ 24,000- $ 44,000 to a top step Firefighter salary range of $ 35,000- $ 61,000 annually. These salaries do not include certification pay, overtime or benefits.
Each Fire Department has it's own citizenship requirements. Some do not require United States citizenship.
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