How to become a
firefighter with the Orland Fire Protection District
If you are interested in pursuing a career with the Orland Fire Protection District, there
are many requirements that must be fulfilled. It may appear tedious and lengthy, and quite
frankly, it is. The hiring process is composed of several arenas of competition, but in
order to ensure that the public at large is protected by a competent force, strict
requirements are necessary. One should not be intimidated by the hiring process nor feel
it is too tough, since with preparation and study ones' placement on the eligibility list
will be higher. The following items are a basic overview of the hiring requirements and
process. Again, it may appear lengthy, but as each process is completed, the entire task
becomes easier and if one views the testing as a challenge, the pride associated with
completing a difficult endeavor will hold value in itself.
FILING OF APPLICATION : After the legal posting of acceptance of
applications, one should proceed to the Headquarters or Administration building and
request an application. The application will be lengthy, and be best filled out in
the comfort of your own home. Questions regarding work history, criminal background,
education, credit history, acquaintances, and references are included. It is best to have
a list of dates handy with regard to schools attended, as well as addresses and phone
numbers of references and acquaintances. After the application is completed, it must be
turned in and you will be notified of the next process.
PREREQUISITE REQUIREMENTS
GENERALLY : The following are sample requirements for an applicant to take the firefighter entry
test. Requirements may change. Read the application and legal notice for the current requirements.
21 - 35 years of age
Certified paramedic in State of Illinois by time of conditional offer of employment
High school graduate, or GED
U.S. citizen
Valid driver's license
No felony convictions
Vision 20/100 corrected to 20/20 in the better eye and 20/40 in the poorer eye
Attend the mandatory orientation
Residency - no requirement to take test. Must establish residency within 65 miles of
Orland Fire District prior to completion of one year probation.
TESTING PROCESS
PHYSICAL AGILITY TEST : Generally the first item of the testing
process is the physical agility test. With preparation and training, one can increase
his/her performance on this aspect of the testing process. The components of the ability
test vary from time to time, but generally include an obstacle course, a running exercise,
a maze, ladder climb, and sometimes other basic exercises that test ones' physical
abilities.
WRITTEN EXAMINATION : The written examination may vary from time to time. It may
include reading passages followed by comprehension testing. Also, basic mathematical
questions are included, as well as questions regarding situational problems and decisions
making problems.
ORAL INTERVIEW : This aspect of the test may be the most intimidating for many people.
It consists of oral questions posed to the interviewee by the Board of Commissioners. It
serves not only as a tool as to how well a person communicates, but gives the Board a feel
for the interviewee as a person, as this is the point where they can meet a person face to
face. Questions posed to the candidate range from "Why are you interested in this
line of work?" to questions about working with others, honesty, qualities required of
a firefighter/paramedic, and a host of other questions designed to let the Board learn
more about how the interviewee feels on different subjects
BACKGROUND CHECK : Prior to becoming hired, all applicants must pass a strict
background check. Only persons who are honest in deed and thought are preferred. Any
felony convictions automatically disqualifies one to become a firefighter for the Orland
Fire Protection District. It is of capital importance that the personnel hired are of
sound moral character for they serve not only the public in times of emergency but also as
exemplary figures in the public eye. There is no room for the thief, the cheat, or the
deceiver of the innocent. Upon completion of the probationary period, an oath is
administered and is expected to be lived up to. They are not merely words, but a creed to
which be lived by.
HIRING LIST : When all phases of testing are completed, a list is posted ranking the
order of individuals with a passing score of 70% or better. When openings are
available, the persons are contacted to inquire if they are interested in taking the
job.
PROBATIONARY PERIOD : After being hired, the "candidate" fulfills a
probationary period of 1 year where they learn procedures, rules, and a multitude of other
relevant information. After successful completion of the period, they are sworn in and
considered official members of the Orland Fire Protection District.
SUMMARY : Hopefully this brief informational section answered any questions one might
have regarding the requirements and hiring process of the Fire District. When this
hiring process is about to begin the District lets the public know by publicizing it in
local newspapers. The Orland Fire Protection District is proud to be a department
entrenched deeply in tradition but at the same time using all the modern technology
available to save lives and protect property.
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