Jessica Fisher, Public Information Assistant, No Phone Number Available
Wednesday, September 12, 2018 at 2:39 p.m.
Are you interested in becoming a Spokane Fire Department firefighter? Here is everything you need to know about the application process.
In order to be eligible to apply, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent, possess a valid driver’s license, and have successfully completed EMT training and be eligible for Washington State EMT certification. Paramedic applicants must currently possess the National Registry Paramedic credential or Washington State Paramedic license
Before submitting your application, you must take the Public Safety Test (PST). The PST test consists of a written exam and the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT). The City of Spokane provides free PST testing once a year. The next free PST test will occur in 2019.
The written exam can be divided into two broad areas: cognitive abilities and non-cognitive traits. It is important to know that the exam does not measure job-specific knowledge or any specific skills that require specialized training. The exam covers the following cognitive areas:
Candidates must score at least 70% on the written exam to be considered passing. For more in-depth information on the written exam visit the PST website.
Candidates will also have to take the CPAT test. CPAT standards require candidates to attend two Candidate Orientations and two Practice Tests prior to their actual CPAT test. While, candidates may waive these requirements, we strongly encourage you to attend. Candidates who take the practice test typically do better on the actual test. This test consists of eight job-specific events:
More information on the CPAT test can be found on the PST website.
PST scores must be less than six months old when you apply for a firefighter position with the City of Spokane. So, make sure to fill out an application on the City’s website after receiving your passing PST test score.
Candidates will be ranked on a Civil Services list based on their test scores. Those ranking high on this list will be sent a pre-employment packet asking for a variety of information including your education, employment, driving record, criminal record, and personal references. Any additional materials you feel would strengthen your position as a candidate should be submitted with the employment packet, such as a professional resume, letters of reference, and relevant professional certifications.
Following the submission of your pre-employment packet, you will proceed through a series of interviews. The first interview is with a Spokane Fire Department panel in a formal business setting. The most competitive candidates will have their final interview with the Fire Chief.
After the final interview with the Fire Chief, you may receive a conditional job offer. If you receive and accept a conditional job offer, the Fire Department will conduct a medical exam, a psychological exam, and a criminal background check. Candidates who sign conditional job offers will be hired by the Department, barring any medical issues, a failed psychological exam, or discovery of negative background information.
We wish all the candidates good luck during the application process! If you have any questions regarding the pre-employment process, email the Spokane Fire Department Recruitment Office at sfdrecruitment@spokanecity.org
