How to Become A Firefighter in Maine

Career Outlook

The employment of firefighting professionals is forecasted to grow by 5% from 2018 to 2028.

Steps to Become a Firefighter in Maine

This section of the article will help you figure out how to become a Firefighter in Maine.

Step 1: Meet the Entry-level Education Requirements

To work as a Firefighter in Maine, you will have to complete your high school education. Later, you can also pursue a post-secondary non-degree award (such as a Certificate) in Fire Science or a related field.

Step 2: Keep an Eye on the Application Cycle

After completing your educational qualifications, you should visit your local fire department and check whether they are planning to start their recruitment cycle. Once the application cycle is open, you should send your application at the earliest. If your application is shortlisted, you will be notified and will be invited for an entrance exam. The location, time, and date of the exam will be shared with you in advance.

Step 3: Ace the Physical Aptitude Test

If you are lucky enough to clear the entrance exam, you will be asked to take the Physical Aptitude Test (PAT). This is a pass/fail test, which consists of simulated firefighting exercises that you must complete in a given amount of time.

Step 4: Appear for the Interview

Candidates who are successful in meeting the established requirements of the PAT and the written exams are invited for the oral interview. If you get the interview call, you should consider yourself lucky, because not many people can make it to this stage. You can expect to be interviewed by some members of the city’s Fire Department administration.

Step 5: Get the Appointment Letter

After clearing the interview stage, you will be required to undergo a medical examination. The hiring team will also conduct an extensive background check to see whether you have any criminal convictions. Once you have passed these difficult stages, you will be sent to a Fire Academy. During your time at the academy, you will be trained in advanced and basic firefighting and emergency medical services techniques. You will eventually be hired on probation after completion of the training period.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Firefighter in Maine?

The process of becoming a Firefighter in Maine can take several months. The entire process starts with getting a high school diploma. Later, candidates can also earn a postsecondary non-degree award in a relevant field. Certificate and Associate programs usually take 1 to 2 years to complete.

With the right qualifications in hand, candidates can begin the job application process. Shortlisted applicants are required to pass a series of stages and tests, such as written exams, physical tests, and interviews. After successfully clearing these assessments, and passing the medical screening and background checks, candidates are finally given the job offer letters. These individuals are then placed in a multi-week Recruit Academy.

What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Firefighter in Maine?

Individuals who want to become a Firefighter in Maine are required to:

• Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Possess a valid State of Maine license.
• Have a good moral character.
• Be in a good physical state.

Some fire departments in Maine also prefer candidates who have State Firefighter I and II certifications. In order to learn more about training and certification requirements for Firefighters, you should visit your local fire department and ask them about the hiring criteria.

How Much Does a Firefighter Earn in Maine?

The occupational statistics published on the US Bureau of Labor Statistics' website indicates that Firefighters in Maine made an annual mean wage of $39,430 in 2019.