EMPLOYMENT
Recruitment Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)  

Application Questions

1. How often does the Peoria Fire Department test for Firefighter Recruit positions?
We accept applications and test once per year. For date, time, and location, see our Recruitment page.

2. Does prior experience in firefighting help my chances?
Prior experience will be taken into consideration; however, it will not necessarily help or hurt your chances.

3. Do you accept out-of-state applications?
Yes we do. You are not required to live in-state to apply, as long as you meet all of the application requirements. All travel expenses are the candidate's responsibility.

4. What is the age requirement?
You must be 18 years old.

5. I am an out-of-state EMT, where can I find information about becoming an Arizona EMT?
The Arizona Bureau of Emergency Medical Services (AZBEMS) is the regulatory body for EMT certification. To learn more about EMT certification reciprocity, visit the AZBEMS web site at http://www.hs.state.az.us/bems/, or call 1-800-200-8523.

6. What if I can't remember the dates, offenses or action taken on moving violations?
You must include the dates, offenses, and action taken. We require a current (within 30 days of written exam) 5-year Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) driving record when you submit your application.

Written Examination Questions

7. Do I need to pass the CPAT before I take the written exam?
YES.  You must succesfully pass and maintain a current (within six months of written test) passing CPAT.  The next locally available CPAT is at Glendale Community College on December 9-10, 2005.  Click here for more information.  

8. How many questions are on the test?
There are 140 questions on the test and it takes approximately 3 hours, 15 minutes.

9. Is there a cost to take the written examination?
Yes.  The cost has yet to be determined for the 2006 recruitment.  Please check back soon for updated information.

10. How many people take the written examination?
Everyone who meets the requirements will be able to take the written examination.

11. How soon after taking the written exam will I know my score?
You will receive your score approximately one week after the test.

Training Academy Questions

12. How long is the Training Academy? Is it in Peoria? What are the hours?
The Training Academy is approximately three months. It is in Phoenix, located at 2430 N. 22nd Avenue. Recruits report at 7:30a.m. to 4:30p.m., although hours may vary.

13. If accepted, do I have to pay for the training?
No. The training will be provided by the Peoria Fire Department at no charge. In fact, once your training begins, you will be on our payroll.

Employment Questions

14. Do I get to choose which fire station I work at?
Once recruits graduate from the Training Academy they are rotated to a new station every quarter. They can bid for a spot at the station of their choice; however, bidding is based on seniority and they cannot move to their bidded spot until they serve their one-year probation.

15. Do I have to pay for my uniform?
No, you will receive a uniform allowance twice per year, February and August, in the amount of $332.50.

16. Is there special assignment pay?
Yes. We have special assignment pay for Paramedic ($425/month), TRT ($230/month), Stack ($135/month), and Bilingual (up to $30/month).

17. Do you offer tuition reimbursement?
Yes we do. We currently pay $225 per credit hour for undergraduate degrees and $264 per credit hour for graduate degrees, plus books.