New Jersey test

[JSMJR11904]

I am currently living in new jersey and i am interested in becoming a firefighter i was wondering if there is anything i have to do besides wait for the testing date. I am in good shape and working toward my associates in fire science, is there anythiong else i can do to be better qualified.

[MEck51]

Live in the town that you want to work for. Most NJ towns hire residents only, you have to be a resident at time of application for the test. Other than that just the basics. Good cardio, which you say you have, good people skills the new test is all about "team work". Keep a clean record, stay with the same job to show loyalty. The whole church boy routine. There are prep classes, I think one is called examco. They are not realy needed, however it is a confidence builder and may help you feel more relaxed when actualy taking the test.

[JSMJR11904]

Alright thanks for your help Meck. I was just wondering, because i am a Linden resident and it seems like they keep pushing the date back. I have been down to city hall and they tell me check out our town's channel. First it was supposed to be in the summer, now they are saying sometime in 06.
I have also been checking out the NJDOP site and it just says TBA. Thanks for the tips though I'll just remain patient.

[MEck51]

Last I heard, the application should be coming out in Feb, or somewhere in there. The state it seems could care less about this test. Been that way for quite some time. The only other thing I can think of if they actualy do give a damn is that there are so many cry babies that complain if they don't get hired that the review process takes too long. Try checking the NJDOP website, I can't remeber the link. They usaly keep up to date info on there, they also have a test study guide. Real basic stuff, anyone can get it.

[FORTff]

Do you need to be an NJ state resident to take the test?

I live in the Philly area on the PA side of things and am interested in taking the Jersey test. I realize that if you don't live where you want to work you're kinda screwed, so is it even worth me trying to take the test?

How do the larger cities such as Jersey City, Camden and Trenton do their hiring? Is it off of the state list or do they have their own tests?

[BCLepore]

Regardless of where you live, the following is a great template to follow to reach your goal of becomming a firefighter:

Two-Year Plan


This sample Firefighter two-year Plan was developed with input form Mike Sarjeant, a Captain on the Long Beach, California, Fire Department.


� If still in high school look into a Regional Occupational Program (ROP).

Many local fire departments have community outreach recruitment programs.

� Graduate from high school or obtain your GED.

A diploma is much preferred.

� Talk with a counselor at a community college that offers fire science courses.

Set up a course curriculum that allows you to obtain a two-year degree in fire science. If the local college does not offer a fire science program, find one that does.

This curriculum should also allow you to complete the prerequisite courses for a fire academy.

� Take an Emergency Medical Technician Course (EMT).

This will accomplish a few things. First of all, it is a course required by most departments. It will also let you know if this profession is for you. If you find you can’t handle the sight of blood or helping people during crises, the fire service may not be for you.

� Enroll in a state certified fire academy.

Many departments require completion of a Firefighter 1 Academy prior to taking the entry-level exam.

Completion of a fire academy prior to being hired will greatly enhance a candidate’s chance of successfully completing the fire department’s academy. Many fire departments have a 25 – 30% failure rate.


� Find out if your community has either a fire department volunteer program or Fire Explorers.


Volunteering in the fire department is an excellent way to gain real life experience. This exposure will also allow you to determine if this is indeed the right career choice for you.


� Volunteer in your community.

Find something that you are interested in and volunteer your time: church, sports, hospital, YMCA, Red Cross, etc. It doesn’t matter. Get involved. Volunteering is something that should be done because it’s the right thing to do, not because it will look good on a firefighter application.


Firefighters are self-motivated and have historically been involved in their communities. The perception is that if you are helping out in your community now, you will be the type who will likely continue to stay involved after you are hired, helping out in various committees and groups both on and off the job.

� Visit the local fire stations.

Interview the firefighters and elicit their help in planning your career path. It is a tremendous compliment to the firefighters to have someone aspire to be in their position. Visiting the fire stations will help you learn about the job and the culture of the fire service. In addition, you will learn of things that you could be doing to enhance your chances of getting hired. Ultimately, when the department hires, you will be in a good position since the firefighters have gotten to know you and have taken the time to mentor you. There is nothing better than a “home grown” prospect.

� Prepare for a fire department interview.

Consider the reasons why you want to become a firefighter and be able to express them. Do your research and learn the rules of the road concerning the interview process. Participate in “mock” interviews with firefighters.

Start a log that includes everything you have done to prepare yourself.

Include details, dates, and names of instructors. Include any personal experiences that may be pertinent to becoming a firefighter.
A few examples of this could be:

You witnessed a car accident and were able to render aid.

You volunteered your time at the Boys and Girls club.


You experienced a life-changing event.

You were voted most inspirational on your athletic team or your fire academy.

Your high school athletic team won the championship.

You were a lifeguard at the city pool.

Anything that you think might be significant. There are no rules. Write it down!

This information will go on your resume, or may be speaking points in an interview. This is preparing you to answer difficult questions in an interview, such as, “Please share with the panel a stressful time in your life, and how you dealt with it.”

The log should just be an easy and accessible memory jogger for you. If you are comfortable with a pencil and notepad, keep them in your room in a convenient spot so you won’t forget to use them. If you are more comfortable on the computer, then use it to formulate your thoughts and ideas.

� Get in shape.

Firefighting is a very physical job requiring peak physical strength and endurance. If you are not in good physical condition, it will become very evident during the physical agility testing or the pre-hire medical exam. It is also important to look as if you are physically prepared for the job.

If you see a firefighter who looks out of shape, don’t look at him and think, “If he got hired, so can I!” Odds are he was in better physical condition when he was first hired. You are trying to do everything you can to improve your chances. This is a very important part that you have complete control over!

� Look the part!

The rule of thumb in an interview is to hire someone who you can see becoming a member or your crew tomorrow. A candidate who walks in with excessive facial hair, large tattoos or body piercing that is not permitted by the department’s policies presents as a candidate who is not ready for the position. Do not make the mistake of saying that you will remove them when you are ready to be hired. You are making a statement. It is important to understand that the fire department is a paramilitary organization. These will definitely not improve your chances of success.

Dress professionally.
Invest in a suit and tie. Although not required for the interview, a candidate who does not wear one stands out. First impressions are critical. Make sure the suit is conservative, not flashy.

Dress professionally whenever you will have contact with members of the department. This includes station visits. Remember, it is important to make a good first impression.

� Enroll in a service that lets you know which departments are testing.

There are several businesses on the Internet that will inform you of which departments are testing and what their requirements are.

Most departments test every 2-3 years. They will then hire from the “eligibility list” until it expires. The window to file an application is usually very small, ranging from as short as 1 day to as long as 30 days. Once the filing period is closed, the department will not accept any more applications. If you don’t have a subscription to one these services, you will miss a lot of opportunities.

Talk to your family.

The decision to become a firefighter is a monumental one. It will most likely be a long road that requires a lot of time and sacrifice. If you don’t have a family or friend support network, it will become extremely difficult. Most importantly, if your spouse does not support your decision, you are destined for failure.

Surround yourself with reputable people.

A firefighter position is a life choice, not just a job. You must be prepared to live your life with excellent moral and ethical values. For this you will need the support of family and friends who are good role models. If your friends are not a positive influence in the community, you may want to find a new set of friends. Remember the old saying, “Birds of a feather flock together.” A background check will scrutinize not only you, but also the company you keep.

Learn a trade.

Woodworking, framing, electrical, plumbing, welding and automotive are all common examples of a trade. Firefighting is a very physical job that requires good psychomotor skills and a hands-on approach. Typically those who have learned a trade possess these applicable job skills. If you know how a building is constructed, you will be able to predict how a fire will travel through it. If you know where the electrical and plumbing is typically run behind the drywall, you will most likely know where it would be safe to open it up. You will also have become very comfortable with power tools. The importance of being able to work with your hands cannot be overstated.

If you don’t currently have this kind of experience, start taking classes in a trade at your community college. You will at least learn the basics. Back this up with some real life practical experience. It will be invaluable knowledge and will play out well in an interview. Mechanical aptitude cannot be learned in an Internet class or while sitting behind a computer.

Improve your public speaking skills.

If you are uncomfortable getting up in front of a group, you must take steps to overcome your fear. The largest percentage of the testing process is the interview, and ultimately a large part of the job deals with public speaking! You won’t talk a fire out, but you will talk to different groups about how to prevent them. If you can present yourself well in an interview, you are leaps and bounds ahead of the others who can’t. Even if the other candidates have more experience than you, the job will usually be awarded to the candidate who can present him or herself in a clear and concise manner.

If public speaking is your downfall, it is imperative to join Toastmasters or take some courses at your community college. A speech and debate class is an excellent way to get over the jitters. Acting or drama classes can also be an excellent way to feel more comfortable in front of a group.

Teaching others can also help you learn to think on your feet. Whether you are teaching CPR and First Aid or your local Sunday school class, it will help you learn to present information clearly and field questions.

A typical interview question might be, “What do you consider a weakness about yourself?” Your answer could be, “I used to feel uncomfortable getting up and speaking in front of a group. I knew this was a very important part of my chosen vocation. I took several classes at my community college to help improve my comfort level. Since then I feel much more confident in my ability to speak in public.”

You can have all of the best traits in the world, but if you can’t effectively convey them in an interview they will go unnoticed. Now that’s turning a negative into a positive!

Maintain a clean driving and criminal record.

It goes without saying that firefighters are held to a standard that is much higher than the average citizen. The road is littered with firefighter candidates who have failed their background check due to a poor driving or criminal record.

Maintain a good credit history.

Your credit history is a reflection of your reliability, honesty, organization and attention to detail.

Update your resume.

Make sure your resume has no technical or grammatical errors, is well organized and comprehensive. Ask reliable friends or family to proofread it.

Paul Lepore
Battalion Chief
www.aspiringfirefighters.com

[FORTff]

Thanks but I'm interested in the details regarding how NEW JERSEY'S system works, I'm not interested in a generic idea of how the system overall works. I find it better to know the ins and outs of each area individually.

[MEck51]

Pretty sure you have to be a NJ resident although I have never actualy checked into it. I will look a little closer as soon as I can. I agree with alot of what was posted by BC, however in NJ you are not required and can not legaly be required to have a either FF1 of EMT to get hired. It is some DOP crap to better balance the system and make a level playing field. I will get back with some better answers to your other questions, but right now I am realy tied up with school check back friday night.

[MEck51]

These links will get you all the info that you should need for the NJ test, minus tips from persons that have taken the test already. Keep in mind though that it is an updated test from the one given 2 or 3 years ago, some things will be different. The website can be some what confusing, but if you look enough you will find the info you need. As far as the specific question about a being a PA resident, I found no place in the online section that states you must be a NJ resident to take the test. However I do think that I saw it posted on the application somewhere that you must be an NJ resident. Furthermore, honestly you have a snowballs chance in hell of getting hired if not a NJ resident, it is hard enough when you live here and are a resident of the town you are applying for. It won't hurt you to take the test but I wouldn't get my hopes up if I were you.

http://www.state.nj.us/personnel/public_safety/index.htm

http://webapps.dop.state.nj.us/jobspec/01839.htm

http://www.state.nj.us/personnel/public_safety/entry-level-ffighter_opps.htm

[AdamNichols]

There are two types of test in NJ
1. NJDOP test - one test given by the state covers most jurisdictions. They make the rules, and one is that you most be a resident at the time of thetesting for the specific town you want. these requrements may be town, county, or state, but they do not accept out of state.
2. Cheifs test - given by the jurisdiction that hires, they make there own rules.
No matter what the NJ Pension system requries you to live in NJ at time of appointment. Most, if not all of the big cities are NJDOP tests, and usually requrie city residency. I hope this helps.
Adam C Nichols

[SQUEEK42984]

How do the larger cities such as Jersey City, Camden and Trenton do their hiring? Is it off of the state list or do they have their own tests?



These cities are civil service tests basically through NJDOP you have to live in the city prior to the test and you have to be an NJ resident Camden City I have been told you basically need to be a minority to get hired being white wont really cut it, it sucks but hey you need to deal. Paterson this year if the test ever comes around is supposed to hire 64 guys right off the bat because of a safer grant they recieved this past AFG. I've heard a rumor that Jersey City is supposed to hire around 60 in the beginning of the new test as well accept that is also a rumor. Last I heard for Jersey City is that almost 900 people apply and take the test and they are very strict with the residency if you don't live live there your off the test.

[GeorgeWendtCFI]

Regardless of where you live, the following is a great template to follow to reach your goal of becomming a firefighter:

Two-Year Plan


This sample Firefighter two-year Plan was developed with input form Mike Sarjeant, a Captain on the Long Beach, California, Fire Department.


� If still in high school look into a Regional Occupational Program (ROP).

Many local fire departments have community outreach recruitment programs.

� Graduate from high school or obtain your GED.

A diploma is much preferred.

� Talk with a counselor at a community college that offers fire science courses.

Set up a course curriculum that allows you to obtain a two-year degree in fire science. If the local college does not offer a fire science program, find one that does.

This curriculum should also allow you to complete the prerequisite courses for a fire academy.

� Take an Emergency Medical Technician Course (EMT).

This will accomplish a few things. First of all, it is a course required by most departments. It will also let you know if this profession is for you. If you find you can’t handle the sight of blood or helping people during crises, the fire service may not be for you.

� Enroll in a state certified fire academy.

Many departments require completion of a Firefighter 1 Academy prior to taking the entry-level exam.

Completion of a fire academy prior to being hired will greatly enhance a candidate’s chance of successfully completing the fire department’s academy. Many fire departments have a 25 – 30% failure rate.


� Find out if your community has either a fire department volunteer program or Fire Explorers.


Volunteering in the fire department is an excellent way to gain real life experience. This exposure will also allow you to determine if this is indeed the right career choice for you.


� Volunteer in your community.

Find something that you are interested in and volunteer your time: church, sports, hospital, YMCA, Red Cross, etc. It doesn’t matter. Get involved. Volunteering is something that should be done because it’s the right thing to do, not because it will look good on a firefighter application.


Firefighters are self-motivated and have historically been involved in their communities. The perception is that if you are helping out in your community now, you will be the type who will likely continue to stay involved after you are hired, helping out in various committees and groups both on and off the job.

� Visit the local fire stations.

Interview the firefighters and elicit their help in planning your career path. It is a tremendous compliment to the firefighters to have someone aspire to be in their position. Visiting the fire stations will help you learn about the job and the culture of the fire service. In addition, you will learn of things that you could be doing to enhance your chances of getting hired. Ultimately, when the department hires, you will be in a good position since the firefighters have gotten to know you and have taken the time to mentor you. There is nothing better than a “home grown” prospect.

� Prepare for a fire department interview.

Consider the reasons why you want to become a firefighter and be able to express them. Do your research and learn the rules of the road concerning the interview process. Participate in “mock” interviews with firefighters.

Start a log that includes everything you have done to prepare yourself.

Include details, dates, and names of instructors. Include any personal experiences that may be pertinent to becoming a firefighter.
A few examples of this could be:

You witnessed a car accident and were able to render aid.

You volunteered your time at the Boys and Girls club.


You experienced a life-changing event.

You were voted most inspirational on your athletic team or your fire academy.

Your high school athletic team won the championship.

You were a lifeguard at the city pool.

Anything that you think might be significant. There are no rules. Write it down!

This information will go on your resume, or may be speaking points in an interview. This is preparing you to answer difficult questions in an interview, such as, “Please share with the panel a stressful time in your life, and how you dealt with it.”

The log should just be an easy and accessible memory jogger for you. If you are comfortable with a pencil and notepad, keep them in your room in a convenient spot so you won’t forget to use them. If you are more comfortable on the computer, then use it to formulate your thoughts and ideas.

� Get in shape.

Firefighting is a very physical job requiring peak physical strength and endurance. If you are not in good physical condition, it will become very evident during the physical agility testing or the pre-hire medical exam. It is also important to look as if you are physically prepared for the job.

If you see a firefighter who looks out of shape, don’t look at him and think, “If he got hired, so can I!” Odds are he was in better physical condition when he was first hired. You are trying to do everything you can to improve your chances. This is a very important part that you have complete control over!

� Look the part!

The rule of thumb in an interview is to hire someone who you can see becoming a member or your crew tomorrow. A candidate who walks in with excessive facial hair, large tattoos or body piercing that is not permitted by the department’s policies presents as a candidate who is not ready for the position. Do not make the mistake of saying that you will remove them when you are ready to be hired. You are making a statement. It is important to understand that the fire department is a paramilitary organization. These will definitely not improve your chances of success.

Dress professionally.
Invest in a suit and tie. Although not required for the interview, a candidate who does not wear one stands out. First impressions are critical. Make sure the suit is conservative, not flashy.

Dress professionally whenever you will have contact with members of the department. This includes station visits. Remember, it is important to make a good first impression.

� Enroll in a service that lets you know which departments are testing.

There are several businesses on the Internet that will inform you of which departments are testing and what their requirements are.

Most departments test every 2-3 years. They will then hire from the “eligibility list” until it expires. The window to file an application is usually very small, ranging from as short as 1 day to as long as 30 days. Once the filing period is closed, the department will not accept any more applications. If you don’t have a subscription to one these services, you will miss a lot of opportunities.

Talk to your family.

The decision to become a firefighter is a monumental one. It will most likely be a long road that requires a lot of time and sacrifice. If you don’t have a family or friend support network, it will become extremely difficult. Most importantly, if your spouse does not support your decision, you are destined for failure.

Surround yourself with reputable people.

A firefighter position is a life choice, not just a job. You must be prepared to live your life with excellent moral and ethical values. For this you will need the support of family and friends who are good role models. If your friends are not a positive influence in the community, you may want to find a new set of friends. Remember the old saying, “Birds of a feather flock together.” A background check will scrutinize not only you, but also the company you keep.

Learn a trade.

Woodworking, framing, electrical, plumbing, welding and automotive are all common examples of a trade. Firefighting is a very physical job that requires good psychomotor skills and a hands-on approach. Typically those who have learned a trade possess these applicable job skills. If you know how a building is constructed, you will be able to predict how a fire will travel through it. If you know where the electrical and plumbing is typically run behind the drywall, you will most likely know where it would be safe to open it up. You will also have become very comfortable with power tools. The importance of being able to work with your hands cannot be overstated.

If you don’t currently have this kind of experience, start taking classes in a trade at your community college. You will at least learn the basics. Back this up with some real life practical experience. It will be invaluable knowledge and will play out well in an interview. Mechanical aptitude cannot be learned in an Internet class or while sitting behind a computer.

Improve your public speaking skills.

If you are uncomfortable getting up in front of a group, you must take steps to overcome your fear. The largest percentage of the testing process is the interview, and ultimately a large part of the job deals with public speaking! You won’t talk a fire out, but you will talk to different groups about how to prevent them. If you can present yourself well in an interview, you are leaps and bounds ahead of the others who can’t. Even if the other candidates have more experience than you, the job will usually be awarded to the candidate who can present him or herself in a clear and concise manner.

If public speaking is your downfall, it is imperative to join Toastmasters or take some courses at your community college. A speech and debate class is an excellent way to get over the jitters. Acting or drama classes can also be an excellent way to feel more comfortable in front of a group.

Teaching others can also help you learn to think on your feet. Whether you are teaching CPR and First Aid or your local Sunday school class, it will help you learn to present information clearly and field questions.

A typical interview question might be, “What do you consider a weakness about yourself?” Your answer could be, “I used to feel uncomfortable getting up and speaking in front of a group. I knew this was a very important part of my chosen vocation. I took several classes at my community college to help improve my comfort level. Since then I feel much more confident in my ability to speak in public.”

You can have all of the best traits in the world, but if you can’t effectively convey them in an interview they will go unnoticed. Now that’s turning a negative into a positive!

Maintain a clean driving and criminal record.

It goes without saying that firefighters are held to a standard that is much higher than the average citizen. The road is littered with firefighter candidates who have failed their background check due to a poor driving or criminal record.

Maintain a good credit history.

Your credit history is a reflection of your reliability, honesty, organization and attention to detail.

Update your resume.

Make sure your resume has no technical or grammatical errors, is well organized and comprehensive. Ask reliable friends or family to proofread it.

Paul Lepore
Battalion Chief
www.aspiringfirefighters.com

Great. Useless information as far as NJ is concerned.

NJ is one of the most difficult states in which to get a FF job. As someone stated, most of the towns are hiring city residents only. The application process is being closely monitored by the various fraternal organizations representing minority FF. As far as residency is concerned, you had better actually live in the city or you will be exposed by a PI hired by these orgs.

Secondly, due to the numerous consent decrees and Federal Court rulings regarding the FF hiring process in NJ, the test has been watered down to the point where the deciding factor is the physical test.

Lastly, there will be a definite advantage to being a veteran in the next round of testing.

So, if you want to be a FF in NJ, I wouldn't waste alot of money on coaches or any of the other snake oil that is sold here.

[DRod629]

These cities are civil service tests basically through NJDOP you have to live in the city prior to the test and you have to be an NJ resident Camden City I have been told you basically need to be a minority to get hired being white wont really cut it, it sucks but hey you need to deal. Paterson this year if the test ever comes around is supposed to hire 64 guys right off the bat because of a safer grant they recieved this past AFG. I've heard a rumor that Jersey City is supposed to hire around 60 in the beginning of the new test as well accept that is also a rumor. Last I heard for Jersey City is that almost 900 people apply and take the test and they are very strict with the residency if you don't live live there your off the test.


Good info. Have you heard anything about Elizabeth? Do they plan on having a big class? Does anyone know when the test will finally come out?

[SQUEEK42984]

I know few retirees from elizabeth so I will try to find out. when there going to offer the test again ha it was supposed to be last year but who the hell knows they seem to really not give a **** about the fire test which is supposed to be every 2 years. But they never miss a police test noooo way will they miss that one.

[Fargo2722]

I have also heard that Paterson is looking to Hire a signifigant number of recruits. Rumor has it Newark has many positions coming up. Jersey City is pretty consistent as well but the bottom line -- as others have already stressed -- you have to live there to be eligible. There are some towns that hire not using these requirements like Cherry Hill, Kearny, and some small townships but you really have to keep your ear to the ground because often these ones come up fast and close fast so you have a small window of opportunity.
My two cents would be if you're young pick a town you want to live and work in, go there and score the best on the tests. If you are approaching 35 years of age pick a larger city. A city like New Brunswick is only going to hire 6-12 people a year, if that but a city like Newark is going to put many more on and you'll have a much better chance. It takes time though. I know a guy that moved to Elizabeth and it still took him 6 years to get on the job there.