Firefighters are the first responders to medical emergencies, public safety, and fires. They also educate the public on life safety, fire prevention, and disaster preparedness. If you are interested in launching a career in this field, then read this article on how to become a Firefighter in New York.
Do you have good leadership, technical, and communication skills? If yes, then you should consider a career in fire service and administration.
The table below lists the job requirements that prospective Firefighters are required to meet. This information has been from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Career Outlook
Job outlook data taken from BLS suggests that there will be a 5% employment growth in the firefighting field from 2018 to 2028.
Steps to Become a Firefighter in New York
Read the steps outlined below to learn how to become Firefighter in New York.
Step 1: Complete High School Education
The minimum requirement to become a Firefighter in almost all U.S. states is high school education. Therefore, the first step of this long process is to get a GED or a high school diploma.
Step 2: Apply for the Written Test
At this stage, you will have to submit an application to take the written exam. But first, you must check whether you meet the Firefighter Eligibility Requirements. The written exam tests the applicants’ arithmetic, problem-solving, comprehension, and reading skills. In New York City, applicants who pass the test are also required to appear for an in-person interview with the Fire Department's Officers.
Step 3: Pass Additional Tests
You will then have to pass the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT). This is a test of the candidates’ stamina, strength, and agility. If you pass this exam, you will have to clear a background check, a psychological check, and a medical test. Some fire departments, such as the NYC Fire Department, even offer a mentorship program, which helps to prepare candidates for the Fire Academy.
Step 4: Complete the Fire Cadet Program
This stage involves the completion of a fire service training program. The time it takes to graduate from the academy varies from city to city. In New York City, successful applicants usually have to complete an 18-week long training program, which focuses on physical fitness and classroom training. After graduating from the course, you can begin the career of a lifetime!
How Long Does It Take to Become a Firefighter in New York?
You should be mentally prepared to invest a lot of time in your training and education if you want to become a Firefighter. After completing high school, you have to apply for a written test. Those who are able to secure a good score on the test have to clear a physical exam, an interview, and a load of other screenings and assessments. Some of these include psychological checks and medical assessments. Once these stages have been passed, you will have to complete your fire service training.
What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Firefighter in New York?
To work as a Firefighter in the Empire State, candidates have to meet the following conditions.
The individual must:
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Clear a physical ability and a computer-based/written exam.
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Be a U.S. citizen by the time of his/her appointment.
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Be able to prove his/her identity and the right to obtain employment in the U.S.
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Clear a drug screening exam, psychological test, and medical test.
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Have a good character.
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Possess a valid New York State driver's license
The requirements mentioned above are quite general, and different cities in the State of New York might have their own hiring requirements. For instance, New York City requires candidates to be at least 21 years old by the time of his/her appointment and requires them to have a good understanding of the English Language. Other cities might have similar requirements – thus, you are advised to check your state pages for relevant guidelines.
How Much Do Firefighters Earn in New York?
According to BLS, Firefighters employed in New York made a yearly mean pay of $75,160 in 2019.
Firefighters in Other States
How to Become a Firefighter in Arizona
How to become a firefighter in Arizona is a pertinant question if you want to join the field of firefighting in the state. There are certain steps and requirements you will have to complete to start working. You will have to meet the minimum age requirements, complete the required education, get some experience, get the EMT and CPR certifications, clear CPAT, and a written test, etc to become a firefighter in Arizona. As per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, $46,870 was the mean annual income of firefighters employed in the state of Arizona.