School/Job

[sccfirestudent]

I am 18 almost 19. I am currently enrolled at Southeast Community College for Fire Protection. I have my Fire 1 certification. My question is Should I continue with classes or try to get a job or both?
My teachers all tell me to start applying but another question I have is Who hires a 19 year old kid with only a Fire One certification? I know they have the Equal Oppurtunity Laws but do Dept. actually hire young kids in college? I really have no clue. Any suggestion?

[fire49]

You need to check city employment web sites in your state city you want to apply to

To see age and certification requirements

If you meet them go for it!!!!!

Also talk to your teachers sounds like they know the requirements also

[oregonFF1]

Who hires a 19 year old kid with only a Fire One certification?

You'd be surprised. I was hired as a professional firefighter with just an EMT-Basic, no fire certs at all. In addition to that, I'm only 18, the youngest guy on the department.

My teachers all tell me to start applying

And they would be absolutely right. Testing in the fire service is different depending on the department. Each has specific things they look for in each candidate. Even if you test somewhere and don't get hired your gaining valuable experience. My Captain, Engineer and shift FF have been telling us since day one of recruit academy that if we had a chance to get a certification or attend training that we needed to go for it; to constantly chase down knowledge.

but do Dept. actually hire young kids in college?

This may depend on where you get hired at. With my department there is an understanding with schoolwork. If you have a class to attend that day your allowed to show up for shift briefing then leave and return when you need to. When you're gone, we pick up the slack no questions asked (which is easy with 10 guys at the fire house)

Any suggestion?

From one young person to another, GO FOR IT! Apply everywhere you qualify for and when you're there look sharp, ask good questions, and keep your ears open. If you have any questions for me feel free to ask me.

[fire49]

these range from 18 to 21: but you must be certified:

once again check your state:::

http://www.tcfp.state.tx.us/employment.asp

[sccfirestudent]

Thanks guys. I cant believe you were hired at 18 with only EMT-B. I guess that answers my question. May I ask what department you got on?

[oregonFF1]

B-Shift at Sunriver Fire

[FIREMECH1]

http://omaha-fire.org/images/stories/PDF/Fire%20Recruitment%20Booklet%202010%20internet%20copy.pdf

This is the hiring outline for OFD, if you are interested. Right now, you are golden. When, they hire again.

FM1