How To Qualify For The Best Firefighter Jobs

Many people only consider the physical skills they will need when applying for firefighter jobs. In reality, however, most fire departments are looking for quick-thinking individuals who are capable of making the right decisions in high stress situations. Given the extreme danger that people face when working in this industry, the application process can be quite complex.

If you want to learn how to qualify for firefighter jobs and eventually become a certified firefighter, you should know that these positions are always in high demand. People are attracted to the exciting lifestyle that firefighters get to lead and they like the idea of working to help others. More importantly, however, there is also the fact that these are some of the best-paying civil servant jobs out there and in most cities and counties, people do not need to have beyond an AA degree in order to qualify for them.

Basic Education Skills

It is important to note that the very first skills that are assessed are a person’s basic education skills. Although you will not be spending a lot of time reading, writing or solving math problems when hired on, nearly all municipal areas require applicants to pass these initial assessments. After having done so, they will be qualified to proceed through the next level of screening measures.

Routine Drug Screening and Background Check

Rather than hiring and training people who may have criminal backgrounds or alcohol and drug addiction, most municipalities will normally perform a routine drug screening and background check at this time. If people do not pass these tests, they will not be able to continue the application process. It will also be necessary to undergo a rigorous and comprehensive physical examination in order to know whether you are in good health and physically fit.

Working a Fire Recruitment Agency

Working with a fire recruitment agency is often a good idea. These companies can help you to build the skills that will be essential for qualifying for a position and making it through the necessary training. Before they are ever dispatched as part of real fire and rescue units, these professionals must attend a fire academy where they will undergo challenging training sessions that ramp up their physical fitness levels and prepare them for work.

Serve as Part of a First Response Team

Another major aspect of working in this industry is the requirement to serve as part of a first response team. When emergencies are phoned in, it is often the fire department that responds, even though nothing is on fire. These individuals help to address critical injuries and illnesses, so that people can attain a relatively stable condition before being transported to the hospital. This requires all recruits to receive CPR and first aid certification.

By working with a recruitment agency, you can receive much of the information and training that is necessary for doing well in early examinations. Given that the competition for these jobs is fierce, it is important for people to score high in every assessment. Those who rise to the top of their classes will often be the first to receive paid positions.

While getting the best firefighter jobs may not be easy, it is certainly worthwhile. You can have the personal satisfaction of knowing that you help to save lives. You can also count on receiving a very comfortable salary and an impressive benefits plan.