Frequently Asked Questions
What is the timeframe for the volunteer hiring process?
We run two candidate application processes a year, typically in March and August. The total time frame for the hiring process is 3-4 months.
Do I have to have experience?
Entry Level Applicants - No experience required.
Certified New Hires (CNH) - Minimum requirements are NREMT EMT, AEMT, or Paramedic level certification with active field experience or training within the last five years. Applicants with a current IFSAC Firefighter 1 certification may be considered as a CNH.
What steps are included in the volunteer hiring process?
1. Candidate submits a complete application.
2. Initial screening interview.
3. Written and physical agility testing. CNH may be exempt from written or physical agility test based on experience.
4. Oral Board interview.
5. CNH are required to participate in a skills assessment center for fire or EMS based on certification level.
6. Chief's interview.
7. Conditional offers.
8. Medical Clearance appointment with Department physician.
I am new, what training will I receive?
Within the first-year entry level candidates are expected to complete fire academy and EMT class. Fire academy is approximately 6 months and EMT class is approximately 4 months. Depending on time of hire, our current Fire Academy start dates are in January or July. EMT Training at the Department usually starts the end of August ending mid-December. Classes are typically two weeknights and all-day Saturday throughout both courses.
What clothing and equipment am I responsible for?
Candidates provide their own duty boots and pants. The Department provides uniforms and protective firefighting gear.
What is a "probationary period?"
A period of time where recruits are attending training, completing certification testing, working in the field under supervision and acquiring skills to work independently on incident responses, and completing station duties. The standard probation is approximately 18 months from start date. A CNH may qualify for a probationary period as short as 6 months.
What are the types of volunteer opportunities?
In-City Volunteers - Residents of Buckley, Wilkeson, Carbonado or within 10 minutes of those stations may qualify for this program. In-City Volunteers are required to serve 2 overnight shifts, one Saturday and one Sunday shift per year, attend required training and respond to the station, from home, for incidents.
Out-of-City Volunteers- Personnel who do not qualify for In-City status are required to serve 2 overnight shifts, a scheduled 20 hours of shifts per month, one Saturday and one Sunday shift per year, attend required training. No "from home" response expected.
Resident Volunteer- Qualified personnel are assigned an individual room at the station and provide 104 hours of shift per month in exchange for room and board. Residents live at the station and respond from quarters.
For any other questions, please contact FF Cameron Nickson, our Recruitment Coordinator.