Welcome to the 2023-2024 Entry-Level Firefighter Recruitment
The City of Boise reserves the right to make changes, as needed, to the examination date, time, location, process, and procedures, including canceling the examinations, at any time with or without notice.
Thank you for your interest in joining Boise Fire! Currently, the next hiring cycle is scheduled to begin accepting Entry Level Firefighter applications in June 2023 for a January 2024 recruit academy.
Currently, the Boise Fire Department hiring cycle includes a written exam, oral interview, and physical fitness test. The written exam typically takes place at the beginning of October, with oral interviews at the end of October. Those that score highest from the written exam will be asked to participate in an oral interview. Candidates with the highest combined scores from the written exam and oral interview will be extended a conditional job offer. Candidates are then expected to pass the physical fitness test which is a 1.5 mile run to be completed in under 11 minutes and 30 seconds. The number of candidates hired for recruit academy vary every year depending on many factors such as retirements and city growth.
Qualifications
Entry Level Firefighter
Minimum qualifications for a firefighter position:
- At least 18 years of age
- Possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent
- Possess a valid driver’s license
- Possess a current National Registry or state-issued EMT Basic Certification by date of interview, with the ability to obtain reciprocity in Idaho within 120 days of employment and maintain certification.
- Ability to meet physically demanding standards
Applicants MUST NOT:
- Have any felony convictions over the age of 18
- Have any visible tattoos above the collar of a standard short-sleeved t-shirt
2023-2024 Entry-Level Firefighter Recruitment Opening June 1!
Step1: Apply Online
- On June 1, 2023 at 8 a.m. MST our online application will be available here and directly through GovernmentJobs.com. Accounts will need to be created for new applicants or those that do not already have an account.
- Note: Only attach a Cover Letter, Resume, and EMT Certification to the application. Any additional certifications can be provided at oral board interviews.
- If you wish to request Veterans Preference, you must attach your DD214, and if applicable, proof of disability. No late submissions will be accepted.
Step 2: Pay for the Written Exam
- The cost for the Entry-Level Firefighter written exam is $30.00. Payment must be submitted via PayPal only. No other form of payment will be accepted. If you are using someone else's PayPal account, enter the applicant's name in the comment section so the payment can be matched and verified.
- Note: Payments for this exam are nonrefundable.
Step 3: Schedule Written Exam Date and Time
- Once the City of Boise has reviewed your application and verified payment, you will receive an email notification to self-schedule for the written exam through your application account.
- Note: this process can take up to a week. It will be important that you check your account regularly to receive notifications regarding your application.
Important dates:
- June 1, 2023, 8 a.m. MST: The city of Boise will officially open this year's Entry-Level Firefighter Recruitment.
- September 1, 2023, 5 p.m. MST: Deadline for application and written exam payment. The $30.00 testing fee must be received by this date.
- September 29, 2023, 5 p.m. MST: Deadline for scheduling written examinations.
- October 23, 2023: Deadline to obtain EMT Certification.
- Entry-Level Written Exams will be held at City Hall on the following dates: Friday, October 6, 2023 and Saturday, October 7, 2023.
Failure to meet any of these deadlines will disqualify any applicant from the 2023-2024 Entry-Level Firefighter Recruitment.
**ADA Accommodations: In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, disabled applicants who need a reasonable accommodation to participate in the written exam shall submit a written request for accommodation to Sarah Hatley at shatley@cityofboise.org by September 29, 2023. Requests for a reasonable accommodation must be clearly defined. Applicants must attach documentation from a medical provider or accredited counseling agency stating the disability, functional limitations and proposed accommodation. In accordance with the law, the city will review all requests and will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants that provide appropriate documentation by the deadline stated.
Lifestyle
Firefighting is a rewarding career aimed at protecting life and property and improving the community served. Firefighters put their life and safety on the line to protect the community by facing hazardous tasks under extreme pressure. They must work cooperatively as a team and possess courage, stamina and professionalism. It is a challenging and exciting career, which offers great pay and exceptional benefits, opportunities for advancement and a family for life.
Work Schedule
After successfully completing Academy, our firefighters work 48 hour shifts on duty, followed by 96 hours off.
Women in Fire
Women bring unique abilities and critical qualifications to the fire service. Women interested in a career in fire are encouraged to apply. In the U.S., around 6,200 women currently work as full-time, career firefighters and officers. Several hundred hold the rank of lieutenant or captain, and about 150 are district chiefs, battalion chiefs, division chiefs, or assistant chiefs (Source: Women in Fire & Emergency Services).
Physical Fitness
Strength and fitness preparation is a crucial step in the successful completion of the physical demands of the Boise Fire Academy. Below are some resources for advanced physical training in targeted areas. Please understand that these resources are only a recommendation and will not guarantee employment.
Send a Message to Fire
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