how do i become a firefighter in chicago

1. Complete the Required Education. All aspiring firefighters in Chicago must have at least a high school diploma or an equivalent GED certificate.
2. Get the EMT Certification. You will also have to obtain a valid Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certificate.
3. Clear the CPAT. To become a firefighter in Chicago, you will also have to pass the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT).
4. Apply for the Job. The next step is to apply for the job at the fire station of your choice.
5. Clear the Screening Process. Every fire department has its own screening process. ...
6. Take Part in Fire Academy Training. Once you clear all the steps mentioned above, you will have to take part in training at an approved fire academy.

What are the requirements to be a Chicago firefighter?

Steps to Become a Firefighter in Chicago

1. Complete the Required Education. All aspiring firefighters in Chicago must have at least a high school diploma or an equivalent GED certificate.
2. Get the EMT Certification. You will also have to obtain a valid Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certificate.
3. Clear the CPAT. ...
4. Apply for the Job. ...
5. Clear the Screening Process. ...
6. Take Part in Fire Academy Training. ...

What is the average salary of a Chicago firefighter?

The average salary for a firefighter is $50,848 per year in Chicago, IL. 2 salaries reported, updated at July 20, 2021.

What education and training is required to become a firefighter?

To become a firefighter, you will need to hold at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Once you get your high school diploma, you will need to complete a formal training program. There are different types of programs for firefighter apprentices.

What are the education requirements for a firefighter?

Firefighter requirements

• Physical requirements. For becoming a firefighter, the age limit is typically 18 to 25 years old (or up to 40 years old if you are from a scheduled caste, other ...
• Educational requirements. The basic educational requirement for a firefighter job is a 10th Secondary School Certificate (SSC).
• Skills requirements. ...
• Training requirements. ...

How long does it take to be a Chicago firefighter?

The program takes six months, with the first three months focusing on EMT training and the last three months focusing on firefighter training. All six months of the program include rigorous physical conditioning exercises. Candidates train for full days, usually from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

How long does it take to become a firefighter in Illinois?

The time it takes to become a firefighter in Illinois varies among fire departments. EMT courses take 4-6 months to complete, and paramedic programs require an additional year of study. Some departments only hire candidates older than 21.

How long is the fire Academy in Chicago?

six monthTHE CHICAGO FIRE DEPARTMENT ACADEMY TRAINING PROGRAM The Fire Academy is a full-time, six month program. The first three months of training will focus on EMT training and physical training. The second three months of training will focus on Firefighter training, as well as physical training.

How much money do Chicago firefighters make?

The average Firefighter in Chicago, IL makes $48,356, 10% above the national average Firefighter salary of $43,906. This pay is 5% lower than the combined average salaries of other metros Washington, DC, Dallas, TX and Denver, CO.

Where do Chicago firefighters live?

Mount Greenwood is known as the home of many Chicago firefighters, Chicago police officers, and union workers.

Do Chicago firefighters have to live in the city?

But we do know it's fair to ask whether he's putting us on. Chicago imposes a residency requirement for good reason. Emergency workers, such as firefighters, can respond to a call faster. Employees who live in the city are more involved in their jobs and neighborhoods.

How long is a shift on Chicago fire?

Currently, firefighters work 24 hours on, 48 hours off, like most fire departments across the country. Under the change, a firefighter, for example, will work 7:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. on a Monday; 3:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Tuesday; and then 11:30 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday.

Does Chicago fire work 24-hour shifts?

So, how many hours do firefighters actually work? Almost all fire departments operate a 24-hour rotation. This means firefighters are almost always working 24 hours at a time. Depending on the department they may schedule their crews in various ways including the traditional 24 hours on, 48 hours off.

How long is a shift at Chicago Fire Department?

Typical firefighter shift schedules consist of 24-hour shifts on a rotating basis. They will usually work about 10 shifts per month, but the exact rotation will depend on the organization. There are some less common firefighter shift schedules that use 12-hour or even 48-hour shifts.

How often do Chicago firefighters get paid?

Firefighters work on a 21-day, 168-hour pay schedule. They receive two different types of paychecks. One type of paycheck is received bi-weekly and is intended to cover 106 hours. The second type of paycheck is paid every three weeks, at the end of the firefighter's 168-hour pay period.

How many fire houses are there in Chicago?

98 firehousesThe Fire Suppression and Rescue Division is responsible for the day-to-day operation of all fire suppression companies in the 98 firehouses dispersed throughout the city of Chicago.

Where are the highest paid firefighters?

Best-Paying States for Firefighters$86,880.$86,860.Washington. $77,700.New York. $77,380.Hawaii. $68,590.

How much do firefighters get paid in Illinois?

Average base salary The average salary for a firefighter is $48,248 per year in Illinois. 21 salaries reported, updated at July 28, 2022.

How much do firefighters make an hour in Illinois?

approximately $18.64 an hourAs of Aug 20, 2022, the average annual pay for a Firefighter in Illinois is $38,761 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $18.64 an hour. This is the equivalent of $745/week or $3,230/month.

How long does it take to become a firefighter?

There are different ranks in the industry. You start off as a firefighter completing four months of training. Then after further studying and doing exams you get promoted to platoon commander, station commander, divisional chief, deputy chief and then chief.

Do you have to go to college to be a firefighter?

You don't need to have done A-levels, a degree or any further vocational qualifications although some applicants will have done. But check with your local fire service for their specific requirements as they may vary.

How to apply to be a Chicago fire fighter?

Once you complete all the requirements, you will have to apply for the position of Chicago firefighter. The only way to apply is online. You can find the application form on the City of Chicago’s website. Make sure you fill the form carefully so, that there are no issues with your application.

What are the requirements for a firefighter?

Generally, all aspiring firefighters have to clear a written test, an interview, a background examination, drug screening, medical examination, and a psychological evaluation.

What Salary Is Paid to a Firefighter in Chicago?

According to the City of Chicago, a Firefighter/EMT has an annual salary starting from $50,490.

What is Chicago Fire Department?

The Chicago Fire Department (CFD) is one of the largest public service departments among the 1,108 Illinois fire units listed at the National Fire Department Registry. The CFD is always striving to keep the numbers of fire fatalities down.

Can you be a felon in Chicago?

Must not be a convicted felon nor have any other kind of criminal record anywhere in the United States. Must be a resident of Chicago. This is not mandatory when applying. However, once appointed to the firefighting force, all employees are obligated to live within the Chicago city limits.

Should I Become a Firefighter in Chicago?

They are normally the first people at the site whenever a fire breaks out. Yes, they wear protective gear and use the best equipment, but the job of a firefighter is still full of risks. 17,180 firefighters were working in the state of Illinois in 2019 as per the data by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

How long does it take to be a firefighter in Illinois?

The time it takes to become a firefighter in Illinois varies among fire departments. EMT courses take 4-6 months to complete, and paramedic programs require an additional year of study. Some departments only hire candidates older than 21.

How much money do firefighters make in Illinois?

The average salary for a firefighter in Illinois is around $54,441 per year.

What is the busiest fire station in Chicago?

In every city there is one fire station that chases more alarms than any other outfit. At the end of the year the locals tally np the runs and working fires with all the intense devotion to statistics of a baseball nut who dotes on batting averages.

Is 30 too old to be a firefighter?

There are departments that have upper age limits between 28 and 40, while others have no upper age requirements for firefighters. There are usually no upper age limits to be a volunteer firefighter.

Is becoming a firefighter worth it?

Firefighting is an incredibly rewarding job that’s truly worth it if you’re willing to put in the time and effort. Though you will have to give up some much-valued time with your friends and family and put yourself at risk in dangerous situations, being a firefighter has plenty of benefits.

Is it hard to get into the Chicago Fire Department?

Is it hard to get a job at CHICAGO FIRE DEPARTMENT? People have reported that the interview at CHICAGO FIRE DEPARTMENT is difficult. The interview process takes more than one month. People have rated the overall interview experience as favorable.

What education do you need to be a firefighter in Chicago?

The minimum education requirement for Chicago firefighter applicants is a high school diploma or evidence of passing a high school equivalency exam such as the GED.

How much does a firefighter make in Chicago?

The starting salary is more than $40,000.00 per year, and the turnover rate is fairly low. As a matter of fact, it can sometimes be years in between vacancy announcements.

What is the physical exam for Chicago firefighter?

Physical Exam. To become a Chicago firefighter you must pass an extensive physical fitness exam called the CPAT or Candidates Physical Abilities Test. This test is used to determine whether the applicant can handle the exhaustive physical requirements of the job.

What is the Chicago Firefighter test?

Chicago firefighter hopefuls must pass a civil service test designed to establish proficiency in basic math, reading comprehension, grammar and vocabulary and reasoning skills.

Do you have to live in Chicago to be a fire fighter?

Although applicants are not required to live within the city limits of Chicago, fire fighters are required to live in the city upon appointment.

Do you need a license to drive a fire truck in Illinois?

Because it may be necessary to drive the fire truck, applicants must have a valid Illinois driver's license and a clean driving history that is free of any convictions of driver-related offenses such as DUI or reckless driving.

Do Chicago firefighters have to have a criminal background?

All Chicago firefighter applicants must pass a thorough investigation to determine that they do not have a criminal background and are of good character. Applicants will be required to provide all past addresses and employers, which will be verified.

How many years of high school do you need to be a Chicago police officer?

After completion of the two years in high school and two years at a city college, students will have met the minimum educational requirements to take the Chicago Police and Fire Department examinations for entry into their respective academies.

What is CPFTA in Chicago?

Chicago Police and Firefighter Training Academy (CPFTA) The Chicago Police and Firefighter Training Academy (CPFTA) is a training program for students interested in careers in public safety, law enforcement, criminal justice, and fire science.

Firefighting in Illinois

It is remarkable how many people and how many goods and resources pass through this state on their way to other destinations. The Port of Chicago is a massive network sending and receiving ships to the Great Lake network and major rivers in the US.

Fire Academies in Illinois

If you want to train to be a firefighter in Illinois, there are a few options available to you. There are college courses where you can start your education before you reach the required minimum age. There are also fire academies and other training schools. Options here include:

Major Fire Departments in Illinois

The following is a list of major fire departments in Illinois. While it isn’t comprehensive it’s a great place to start if you’re interested in learning more about how to become a firefighter in Illinois.

Job Prospects for Firefighters in Illinois

As of 2018, Illinois is the state with the fifth-highest level of employment for firefighters with 17,170 and a ratio of 2.87 per 1000 people. Looking at high employment rates by metropolitan area, the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin area of Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin was the largest with 13,090 staff and 2.82 jobs per 1000 people.

How old do you have to be to be an EMT in Illinois?

Typical requirements to enroll in an EMT program include: 18 years of age or older. High school diploma or GED.

What are the requirements for an EMT license?

The EMT-Basic license is the first level of training in the field of EMS. The EMT-Basic course is typically a one semester course which is offered at various training institutions throughout Illinois such as community colleges and hospitals. Typical requirements to enroll in an EMT program include: 1 18 years of age or older 2 High school diploma or GED 3 Ability to read/comprehend at a college level

How long does it take to become an EMT?

Letter from employer/supervisor verifying experience as an EMT-Basic (recommended 6 months minimum)

Does Chicago endorse programs?

The City of Chicago does not endorse one program over others in recommendation or in hiring preferences.