Sioux Falls Fire Rescue Firefighter Hiring

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.  

 

Hiring Process

Step 1.Submit an application 

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

Step 2.Entrance Examination

Candidates who meet minimum qualifications will be invited to take part in a virtual entrance examination. This examination will take place on Tuesday, June 3, 2025. The examination must be taken this day, there will be no exceptions. Applicants will take this examination from their personal device. Human Resources will be in contact with more information leading up to this date, after the application window closes. Candidates must pass the entrance examination to be considered for the next process. 

Step 3.Oral Interview

Candidates with top scores from the entrance examination will be invited to an oral interview. Non-local candidates may complete this process virtually; if desired. This process typically takes place during the month of June. Candidates must pass the interview to be considered for the next process.

Step 4.Conditional Employment Offer

After the conclusion of the entrance examination and oral interview processes, candidates will be ranked based on scores from both processes. Conditional employment offers will be offered to top candidates based on the number of positions available. Candidates receiving conditional employment offers will then complete the below hiring processes.

  • Individual Physical Ability Test (more information below)
  • Criminal background, credit history, driver history, and reference checks
  • Psychological examination
  • Medical examination including a job function test, EKG stress test, physical exam, and a drug test

The above processes take place throughout July-October. Final employment offers will be extended to conditional offer candidates that successfully pass all hiring processes. New cadets will begin the 18-week cadet academy in early 2026.

 

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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