Frequently Asked Questions ( updated 08/17/15)
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Application and Qualifications
1) Is the Fort Wayne Fire Department hiring?
No
2) Where and when do I turn my application in?
During an active hiring process, the Fort Wayne Fire Department application will be available on our website. Applications will be completed and submitted via the site.
3) What is the minimum age for applicants?
You must be 21 years of age at the time of application.
4) What is the maximum age for applicants?
You may not have reached your 36th birthday by the end of the Fire Academy.
5) Do I have to be a High School Graduate or have a GED?
Yes, you must be a high school graduate with diploma or have obtained your GED or equivalent.
6) What if I have a police record?
No felony convictions are permissible.
A comprehensive background investigation is conducted on applicants to establish evidence of good moral character, a well-adjusted personality, community commitment, fire service adaptability, and a pattern of conduct acceptable to the FWFD. A thorough background investigation is important because of the role the fire department serves to the community. The firefighter candidate will eventually hold a position of authority and responsibility. Other convictions, depending on nature, severity/degree and the time period of the offense, will be subject to review by the Fort Wayne Fire Department.
7) Am I required to be a US Citizen?
Yes. Proof of US Citizenship is required at the time of the interview.
8) What form of personal identification will be needed?
You will have to present two (2) forms of identification during the hiring process: driver’s license and birth certificate.
9) I don’t live in Fort Wayne, can I still apply?
Yes. You must have a valid Indiana driver’s license to enter the FWFD Fire Academy. You must be a resident of Allen County or an Indiana county contiguous to Allen by completion of the Fire Academy.
10) I have a relative working for the City of Fort Wayne, can I still apply?
Yes.
11) Is there a testing fee?
No.
12) Will I be drug tested prior to being hired?
Yes, during the medical physical component of the hiring process, a drug test will be administered. As a firefighter you will be randomly screened.
13) If you have a class in 2016, how many people is the fire department looking to hire?
We are currently approved for a class of 15.
14) Can I stop by a station to talk to a firefighter?
Yes, and you are encouraged to do so. The best time to stop by a station is between the hours of 2-4 p.m. and 6-7 p.m.
15) How long is the hiring process?
The Fort Wayne Fire Department hiring process is a long process, not unlike most public safety hiring processes across the country. From the time of application acceptance to the appointment to the Fire Academy, the process can be 6-10 months in duration. Applicants must successfully pass each phase to move on in the hiring process. The process is governed by two entities: State of Indiana and the Fire Merit Commission codes and requirements. Please Click here for a hiring process component list.
16) Do you keep an eligibility list?
Yes, once the eligibility list is established it is good for two (2) years.
17) I am a firefighter somewhere else. Do I have to participate in the written test? What about the academy?
Yes. You will need to successfully complete each step in the FWFD hiring process including the 17-week comprehensive Academy.
18) Do I need to be EMT certified?
No, you do not have to have EMT certification. If you are hired, you will earn your EMT-Basic certification in our academy class.
19) I am already Indiana EMT certified. Will I need to take EMT-Basic again?
Yes. As part of the comprehensive Academy curriculum, you will be required to take EMT-Basic course work. You may not be required to take the State Certification test if you can provide proof and documentation of your current Indiana/National certification and have kept current with your training hours.
All recruits must maintain an 80% average during the academy. Many of the areas of study in subjects are specific to the Fort Wayne Fire Department.
20) Do I need Firefighter I or Firefighter II?
No, you do not have to have Firefighter I or II. If you are hired, you will earn both certifications in our academy class.
21) I am already Firefighter I and II certified. Will I need to take both again in the academy?
Yes. As part of the 17- week comprehensive Academy curriculum, you will be required to take and complete Fire Firefighter I and II course work. All recruits must maintain an 80% average during the academy. Many of the areas of study in subjects are specific to the Fort Wayne Fire Department.
Written Test
1) What kind of questions are on the Written Test?
The written test is designed to assess an applicant’s ability in job relevant skills and ability. You will be asked to:
- Define and solve problems
- Recall and understand written, visual and mechanical materials
- Observe and accurately describe events
- Solve work-related arithmetic problems
2) Is there a fee to take the Written Test?
While there is no fee for an applicant to take the written test, there may be a parking fee associated with the facility the test is administered at. Any parking fee will be communicated to the applicant prior to the written test date.
3) Is there a study guide to prepare for the test?
There is no study guide. Applicants taking the test will be provided study material two (2) hours prior to the test. At the end of the study time, material will be collected and the test will be distributed.
4) Do I need firefighter experience to take the test?
No, you do not need firefighter experience to be successful.
5) How do I prepare for the written test?
While there is no one answer for this question, you may wish to brush up on your reading and basic arithmetic skills. There are multiple resources available on the internet that may assist you in your preparation.
3) Once the Written Test Date is announced can the written exam be taken at another time?
No. All applicants will be administered the written exam at the specified time.
9) What is the passing score?
The passing score is 70% or higher.
10) How will I know if I pass?
You will receive notification within two weeks of the test administration date if you passed or failed the written test component. Scores will be posted on our website, as well. Those who pass with a score of 70% or higher will proceed to the CPAT phase of the hiring process. Those who score less than 70% are no longer eligible to continue forward in the FWFD hiring process.
11) I don’t have an email account. How will you contact me?
If you do not have an email account, and/or not able to receive email notification, we will use the mailing address you provided on your application.
Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)
1) What is the CPAT?
The Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) is a sequence of events requiring the candidate to progress along a predetermined path from event to event in a continuous manner. This test was developed to allow fire departments a means for obtaining pools of trainable candidates who are physically able to perform essential job tasks at fire scenes.
The CPAT Test
Candidates will be equipped with a 50 lb. vest to simulate the weight of a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and firefighter protective clothing, a helmet and gloves. An additional 25 lbs. using two 12.5 weights which simulate a high-rise pack (hose bundle), is added to your shoulders for the stair climb event only.
1. Stair Climb
2. Hose Drag
3. Equipment Carry
4. Ladder Raise and Extension
5. Forcible Entry
6. Search
7. Rescue
8. Ceiling Breach and Pull
2) What is considered passing the CPAT? How will I know if I passed?
This is a PASS/FAIL based on a validated maximum total time of 10 minutes and 20 seconds. You will be notified in person after completing the test.
Additionally, scores will be accessible on our website using the last four digits of your social security number.
3) I am already CPAT certified, will you accept my certification?
Certification acceptance will be determined at a later date and communicated prior to the Application period.
4) What is the mandatory CPAT Orientation?
Applicants will be required to attend a mandatory CPAT Orientation (approximately 30 minutes). It will be held immediately following the written test. The Orientation consists of a 17 minute video showing the components of the CPAT. After watching it, applicants may choose to sign a CPAT Waiver or choose to register for a CPAT Practice Program/practice sessions.
5) What is a CPAT Waiver?
A candidate that feels he/she is capable of passing the CPAT Test without participating in a CPAT Practice Program may sign a waiver after attending the CPAT Orientation. By signing the CPAT Waiver, the candidate knowingly and voluntarily waives participation in all CPAT Practice Sessions and is only obligated to attend the CPAT Test Date.
6) What is a CPAT Practice Program?
A CPAT Practice Program consists of four (4) sessions: two (2) CPAT Practice Sessions and two (2) CPAT Timed Sessions prior to the Final Test date. ** If a candidate chooses to participate in a CPAT Practice Program, he/she must attend all four (4) sessions prior to the CPAT FINALTest Date. Failure to do so will result in him/her being eliminated from the hiring process.
Two CPAT Practice Sessions – Candidates have two scheduled sessions to receive “hands on” familiarity with CPAT equipment. An individual can attempt each task independently, as well as speak with a CPAT proctor.
Two CPAT Timed Sessions – Candidates will have two opportunities to attempt the CPAT in its entirety. The timed session will be conducted exactly as it will be on the actual test day. Therefore, if the candidate successfully completes the CPAT during the CPAT Timed Session, he/she will have fulfilled his/her obligation for the hiring process.
If a candidate successfully completes the CPAT during the CPAT Timed Session #1, he/she is exempt from attending CPAT Timed Session #2 and the Final Test Date.
If a candidate is not successful during CPAT Timed Session #1, he/she must attend CPAT Timed Session #2. Successful completion at CPAT Timed Session #2 fulfills the individual’s obligation for the hiring process and is exempt attending the CPAT Final Test Date.
If a candidate does not achieve a passing time at either CPAT Timed Session, he/she will receive a third opportunity on the CPAT Final Test Date.
7) When can I sign up for the CPAT Practice Program?
Registration for the CPAT Practice Program will be at the Written Test at the CPAT Orientation.
** If a candidate chooses to participate in a CPAT Practice Program, he/she must attend all four (4) sessions prior to the CPAT Final Test Date. Failure to do so will result in him/her being eliminated from the hiring process.
8) What should I wear to the CPAT Practice Sessions and/or the CPAT Test?
Throughout all events, you must wear long pants, footwear with no open heel or toe, a provided hard hat with chinstrap, and provided work gloves. Watches and loose or restrictive jewelry are not permitted.
9) How do I prepare for the CPAT?
Preparation is a key to successfully completing the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT). Resources have been posted on the Fort Wayne Fire Department website, www.fortwaynefiredepartment.org including a CPAT Preparation Guide and video illustrating the CPAT testing sequence.
10) What should I be doing between now and the CPAT Test date?
This test is physically demanding and requires that you be physically fit to be successful. It is never too early to begin physical training and preparing for this test.
Panel Interview
1) What is the Panel Interview?
Candidates who successfully pass the written test and CPAT move on to the Panel Interview. A panel of firefighters provide you, the interviewee, a list of questions. You respond and are scored on your answers. This is not an interactive interview. You will be responsible for formulating and communicating your answers to the best of your ability. You will be scored by the individual panel members.
2) How do you prepare for the Panel Interview? Are there sample questions?
Many resources exist on the Internet to help you with preparation. Often, interviewees prepare sample questions and practice answering questions. If available, answer questions in front of a mirror, or video your responses. You can develop and refine your interview approach.
3) I don’t have firefighter experience? Will I still be able to answer the panel’s questions?
Firefighter experience is not necessary in any stage during the FWFD hiring process. Preparation is the key to success. Be ready to convey your life experiences as items that have prepared you to be a firefighter.
4) What should I wear to the interview?
You are interviewing for a job so professional attire is recommended.
5) When will my interview be?
Candidates will be provided a letter after successfully completing the written exam that will provide your individual interview date and time.
General Firefighting Questions
1) Do firefighters sleep at the station?
Yes. Every fire station is designed to accommodate a crew for 24 hours. This includes a kitchen, dorm, restrooms, showers, exercise equipment, and a TV room. Sleeping is permitted, as is cooking, working out, and studying, although you must be ready to respond to alarms and fulfill other duty requirements at all times.
2) What are the firefighters' hours?
Firefighters work 24 hour shifts with 48 hours off.
3) How much do firefighters get paid?
See Job Information/Salary and Benefits.
4) Is there career advancement?
Yes, career advancement is possible. Firefighters can assess after seven years on the job to Lieutenant, then Captain after two years. After five years at Captain, individuals can promote to Battalion Chief.
Additionally, career opportunities outside the Operations Division exist. Career advancement in other areas such as Public Education, Fire Prevention, Training and Development, Administration and Investigations are available.
Other Questions
1) I don’t have Internet access? What should I do?
Local libraries also have public computers and free Internet access. Check with your local library branch for their specific hours.
During an active FWFD hiring process access to the Internet and to computer terminals may be found at the City of Fort Wayne’s Human Resource Department’s Job Kiosks between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. at
Citizens Square
200 East Berry Street, Suite 370
Fort Wayne, IN 4680
2) Who should I notify if I have a change of address or my personal contact information has changed?
At this time, if you have submitted a "Hiring Updates Request Form" and your contact information has changed, please resubmit a new form.
3) I still have questions. Who should I contact?
Any information regarding the hiring process is available at www.fortwaynefiredpepartment.org. After consulting the site, if you still have questions, you are encouraged to call 260.427.1478.
