Application Process

Ready to join Sioux Falls Fire Rescue? We invite qualified candidates to join our team of over 200 firefighters in serving our community of Sioux Falls, SD. Sign up for an alert to be notified when entrance testing for this position opens. 

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Timeline: Testing for the position of Firefighter with SFFR is a competitive process. The application period for Firefighter opens once each year.

Application Tips:

  • Read through the Candidate Orientation Guide
  • You are applying for a highly competitive role, and the screening process begins with your application.
  • Proofread all materials before submitting your application.
  • Include thorough and complete information, such as all periods of employment, full addresses, and phone numbers.
  • Help us understand your interest in SFFR, Sioux Falls, and what drives you to serve our community.  

 

Submit an Application

Step 1.Submit an application

1. Review the minimum qualifications

Eligibility and Minimum Qualifications:

  • Firefighters must annually pass the Individual Physical Ability Test (IPAT)Graduation from high school or GED certification, or any such combination of education, experience, and training may be acceptable to the hiring authority.
  • Must possess or be able to obtain, prior to hire, a valid driver's license.
  • Applicants must be at least 21 years of age at the time of the entrance civil service examination and no greater than 44 years of age at the time of the entrance civil service examination.
  • Vision must be correctable to at least 20/30 in each eye. 
  • Must be a non-smoker.
  • Applicants must pass all phases of the hiring process.
  • Must possess or be able to obtain National Registry or South Dakota Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification within one year of hire.
    Submit your application for the Firefighter position.

2. Include supporting documents such as resume, cover letter, transcripts, degree, certifications, or DD214.

Step 2.Phase 1 - Written Exam

Candidates who meet minimum qualifications will be invited to take the written exam.

Timeline approximately one to two months
The exam will be administered after the application period closes. Candidates will receive an email regarding test administration. Candidates must receive a passing score to move to Phase 2.

Step 3.Phase 2 - Oral Interview

Candidates with top scores from the written exam will be invited to the oral interview. Once the oral interview is conducted, candidates must have a passing interview score to progress.

Step 4.Phase 3 - Conditional Job Offer

After the conclusion of Phase 1 and Phase 2 testing, the department will make conditional job offers based on the number of positions available. Human Resources staff will contact eligible candidates and request the following documents:

  • Background Authorization
  • Credit Authorization
  • Applicant Notice of Drug Testing
  • Consent to Pre-Employment Physical Examination and Release of Medical Information

Candidates may go through the following pre-employment screenings: Individual Physical Ability Test (IPAT), comprehensive background investigation, psychological evaluation, and medical examination. Candidates must pass each test to continue to the next screening.
Candidates must pass each pre-employment screening to move to the next. Failure to pass any screening will result in the withdrawal from the hiring process.

Resources

Individual Physical Ability Test (IPAT):

  • Duration: 20 Minutes

Psychological Examination:

  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Details: Complete multiple assessments, including the MMPI2 and an interview with the psychological examiner.

Medical Examination:

  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Details: Includes a Job Function Test, EKG, Treadmill stress test, Physical Exam, and Drug Screen

 

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