What to expect after you apply, in 14 stages.
Your application has been received and your candidate record has been created in our system. No action is needed from you right now. A member of our recruitment team will review your application against our minimum qualifications and reach out with next steps. Keep an eye on your email, including your spam folder, so you don't miss any communication from us. If your contact information changes at any point during this process, notify us immediately so we can keep your record current.
Your application is currently being reviewed by our recruitment staff. We are confirming that you meet the minimum qualifications for this position, including age, citizenship, licensing, and background eligibility requirements. This review typically takes five to ten business days. If you are found to meet all minimum qualifications, you will receive an invitation to the written examination. If additional information is needed, we will contact you directly. No action is required from you at this time.
Thank you for completing the written examination. Your results are currently being scored and reviewed. You can expect to receive your results within five to ten business days. No action is needed from you right now. If you pass, you will receive an invitation to schedule the next phase of the process. If you do not meet the minimum score required to advance, you will be notified in writing with your score and the minimum passing threshold for reference. Please continue to monitor your email, including your spam folder, during this period and respond promptly to any communication from our recruitment team.
Congratulations on passing the written examination. You are eligible to advance to the physical ability testing phase. Watch for an invitation to schedule your CPAT or PAT, which will be sent to your email shortly. This is a timed, job-simulation physical test that measures your ability to perform the essential physical demands of the firefighter role. We encourage you to begin physical preparation now if you have not already. Details on what the test involves and how to prepare will be included in your invitation.
You have successfully passed the physical ability test and met all required performance standards. You are eligible to advance to the oral interview phase of the hiring process. You should receive an invitation to schedule your oral interview within the next several business days. In the meantime, we encourage you to begin preparing for a structured panel interview format. Review the job description, department values, and be ready to speak to your background, motivations, and how you handle real-world situations under pressure.
Your oral interview has been scheduled with our panel. Check your confirmation email for the date, time, location, and format details. The panel typically consists of department staff who will ask structured questions about your experience, judgment, and fit for the role. Dress professionally and plan to arrive ten to fifteen minutes early. Prepare to speak clearly and specifically about past experiences using a situation, action, and result format. If you have any questions about the interview format or process, reach out to our recruitment team in advance.
Your background investigation is now underway. An investigator has been assigned to your case and will be reviewing your criminal history, driving record, employment history, military service record, and personal references. This is one of the more time-intensive stages of the process and can take four to eight weeks depending on the complexity of your history. You may be contacted directly by your investigator if additional documentation or clarification is needed. Respond promptly to any investigator requests to avoid delays. Be thorough and honest in all information you have provided, as inconsistencies are a common cause of disqualification.
Your polygraph examination has been scheduled. You will receive confirmation details including the date, time, and location by email. The polygraph is a standard part of our hiring process and is administered by a certified examiner. Get a full night of sleep before your appointment, avoid caffeine on the day of the exam, and answer all questions honestly and directly. Do not attempt to research countermeasures. The examiner will walk you through the process before the examination begins. If you have questions about what to expect, contact our recruitment team.
You have been referred for a pre-employment psychological evaluation with a licensed psychologist. You will receive scheduling information by email with details on the location, format, and what to bring. The evaluation typically includes a standardized written assessment and a clinical interview. Be honest and straightforward throughout the process. The evaluation is not designed to trick you and there are no right or wrong answers. Results are confidential and are used solely to assess your suitability for the demands of this role. Allow one to three weeks for results to be reviewed and communicated.
You are scheduled for your pre-employment medical examination. Check your confirmation email for the location, date, time, and any preparation instructions such as fasting requirements. The exam typically includes cardiovascular assessment, pulmonary function testing, vision, hearing, and a general fitness for duty evaluation. Bring a valid photo ID and any medical documentation your physician has recommended you provide. Results will be reviewed by the examining physician and communicated to the department. Allow one to two weeks for results to be finalized and reported.
You have been directed to a collection site for your pre-employment drug screen. If you have not yet completed your collection appointment, do so as soon as possible as results must be received before your start date can be confirmed. Most results are returned within two to five business days after collection. You do not need to take any additional action after your appointment. If you have a valid prescription for any substance that may appear on a standard panel, make sure you disclosed that information during your medical examination.
You are currently serving your probationary period as a firefighter with this department. This period typically lasts 12 to 18 months and includes regular performance evaluations by your company officer and shift supervisor. You may also be required to complete additional certifications during this time, including Firefighter I and II or EMT licensure depending on department requirements. Take feedback seriously, ask questions, and demonstrate the standards you were hired to meet. Successful completion of your probationary period results in permanent employment status with the department.