When it rains it pours..

[Bryce192]

I worked so hard to get where I am today and I finally got hired at a 7 station fire department in southern california. Currently, I am 3 months into probation and I just got an offer from LA County. I always told myself the first place that gave me the opportunity has my loyalty. But when I talk to my mentors (people that have 25+ years on) they all tell me that I need to consider it as this is a great opportunity. A lot of people ask me whether I want a small dept or a large dept - Being so new to the fire service I don't know which I prefer..
Personally, what are your opinions? I know ultimately it has to be my own decision but looking for different views..

Thanks

[KP85]

Do you have a family?? If so, what is going to be best for them? Personally, i would like to be at a department that is busy and gives me the chance to experience EVERYTHING the fire service has to offer (engine, truck, rescue, etc.). I am 6 months into probation and am moving states for family.. i do not have a job but am hopeful... best of luck with your decision!

[fire49]

I worked so hard to get where I am today and I finally got hired at a 7 station fire department in southern california. Currently, I am 3 months into probation and I just got an offer from LA County. I always told myself the first place that gave me the opportunity has my loyalty. But when I talk to my mentors (people that have 25+ years on) they all tell me that I need to consider it as this is a great opportunity. A lot of people ask me whether I want a small dept or a large dept - Being so new to the fire service I don't know which I prefer..
Personally, what are your opinions? I know ultimately it has to be my own decision but looking for different views..

Thanks

Well if your present Dept gets wind you are looking,,,,

You may be out of a job,,,, And no guarantee you will make it to being on shift at laco,,, still have to hit the academy??? Right???


My normal advice,,, give your present Dept two years,,, before looking.

[WestTarheel]

I would lean on the side of economics. Which offers you and your family the better quality of living now?

Is it a final offer or conditional? Current dept could release you and you may not get the final from laco. If you did it once you could do it again later when you arent on probation and at risk of job loss.


Best of luck.

[Jman119]

I worked so hard to get where I am today and I finally got hired at a 7 station fire department in southern california. Currently, I am 3 months into probation and I just got an offer from LA County. I always told myself the first place that gave me the opportunity has my loyalty. But when I talk to my mentors (people that have 25+ years on) they all tell me that I need to consider it as this is a great opportunity. A lot of people ask me whether I want a small dept or a large dept - Being so new to the fire service I don't know which I prefer..
Personally, what are your opinions? I know ultimately it has to be my own decision but looking for different views..

Thanks

Did you get an official offer or a conditional?

[captnjak]

What was your ultimate dream job when you started the process? Which one is closer to that?

You should look at it financially. Pension, salary, benefits, etc are all legitimate factors for you and your family. Loyalty is great but it doesn't pay the bills. Look at overall quality of life. Doubling your salary and doubling your bills is a wash. What about commuting time?

Personally, I like being in a large department. But I've never been in a small one. There are more options in the large departments.

[Bryce192]

Did you get an official offer or a conditional?

I got a conditional

[Bryce192]

Do you have a family?? If so, what is going to be best for them? Personally, i would like to be at a department that is busy and gives me the chance to experience EVERYTHING the fire service has to offer (engine, truck, rescue, etc.). I am 6 months into probation and am moving states for family.. i do not have a job but am hopeful... best of luck with your decision!

Where are you moving to and from?

[Bryce192]

I would lean on the side of economics. Which offers you and your family the better quality of living now?

Is it a final offer or conditional? Current dept could release you and you may not get the final from laco. If you did it once you could do it again later when you arent on probation and at risk of job loss.


Best of luck.

I can't see my current dept letting me go.. super understanding.. as of right now I'm planning on staying but following through as it's a conditional

[KP85]

Where are you moving to and from?

I am leaving Bryan, Texas and am moving to Washington (state)

[Jman119]

I got a conditional

So they just recently sent out more CJO’s? I heard that some went out last month too. I’m on their list, but never heard anything. La County is a great department! Good luck with everything.