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Become a Firefighter

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1. What apprentice training is required of a firefighter?

All firefighters must successfully complete a State of Minnesota approved three-year apprenticeship program, including classroom and practical training examinations. Employees must satisfactorily complete all apprenticeship training, pass an annual physical fitness examination, and satisfactorily perform required duties during the entire three-year apprenticeship period for a journey-level status. The physical fitness and medical screening program is designed to meet the Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations pertaining to firefighters. This includes various screenings for health and physical problems that potentially place firefighters at risk. All standards of the apprenticeship program must be met to retain employment with the City of Saint Paul.

2. What information is checked during a background investigation?

The background investigation includes, but is not limited to, criminal, financial, employment, medical, psychological, educational and driving histories. A personal interview may also be considered.

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3. Are there any age, height, weight, or medical restrictions that automatically disqualify a candidate for the firefighter position?

The minimum age is 18 and the maximum age is 65. There are no minimum or maximum height or weight restrictions that disqualify candidates from the position. When a job offer is made, it is contingent upon passing a medical examination.

See Firefighter Preplacement Vision and Hearing Standards. More...

4. How many hours does a firefighter work in a typical shift or week?

Following the academy, firefighter work schedules are organized around a three-shift system where each shift is 24 hours and typically work 10-11 days per month. The average work-week during a segment is 56 hours. Firefighters are required to work holidays that fall during their shift.

5. Do newly hired firefighters work in the same fire station each shift?

Apprentice firefighters work in a “pool” for at least two years. They fill in for regularly-assigned personnel who are unavailable for work at stations throughout the City.

6. What is the fire academy training program?

During the fire academy, firefighters receive classroom and practical instructions on firefighting and emergency medical care procedures. They learn a variety of individual rescue inspection skills that are required of firefighters and EMTs. The program lasts approximately 12 – 14 weeks, Monday – Friday, 40 hours per week.

7. What benefits are available to a newly hired firefighter?

New firefighters receive paid vacation and sick leave. They are eligible for employer-contributed health insurance beginning the first of the month following 30 days of employment. More information about these benefits is available on the City’s website at www.stpaul.gov/benefits. More...

8. What is the possibility of being trained or employed as a Paramedic?

The paramedic program is an integral part of the Saint Paul Fire Department. Firefighters may be asked or required to become a Firefighter – Paramedic.

9. What promotional opportunities exist at the Saint Paul Fire Department?

There are many advancement opportunities: Fire Equipment Operator, Fire Captain, Fire District Chief, Fire Training Officer, and Fire/Arson Investigator. The appointed positions include Deputy Chief, Assistant Chief and Fire Chief.

10. How do I obtain a State of Minnesota Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certificate?

Contact a college that offers EMT, take the 6-credit Emergency Medical Technician - Basic course, and pass the written and practical state examinations. Current CPR Health Care Provider certification is a prerequisite for this course. Obtaining a State of MN EMT Certificate

11. Do colleges offer financial aid for EMT certification?

Yes, some do. Please ask the college about the process for applying for financial aid.

12. How do I become a Saint Paul Firefighter?

Typically you must first apply during the application acceptance period and pass a written and physical employment exam and place high enough on the eligible list to be considered for an interview. How to Prepare for the Physical Test

13. How can I be notified of the next City of Saint Paul Firefighter hiring process?

Please fill out a Firefighter Career Interest Form More...

14. When will the City of Saint Paul accept applications for Firefighter?

Tentatively, we will post Firefighter sometime in January, 2014.