HAND CREW FIREFIGHTER

Recruitment Process

 
 

Minimum & Highly desirable qualifications

Minimum qualifications to apply for the position of Hand Crew Firefighter are: 1) age 18, and 2) possession of a High School Diploma/GED.

Highly Desirable qualifications increase your chances of advancement in the recruitment process. When Human Resources staff are screening your application, they are looking for the following certifications: 1) S-190 Introduction to Wildland Firefighting, and 2) S-130 Firefighting Certificate. Human Resources will screen all applications for minimum qualifications. However, the OCFA reserves the right to refer only the most qualified applicants (those possessing the Highly Desirable Qualifications listed in the recruitment announcement). To increase your chances of advancing, it is recommended you obtain both the S-130 and S-190 certificates.

  • The S-190 Introduction to Wildland Firefighting may be taken online or in person (Instructor-led)

  • The S-130 Firefighting Certificate is either an instructor-led course or blended (classroom study online and mandatory instructor-led field day). You will be required to show proof of completion for both components.

The National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) and several local community colleges offer these certificate courses.

written Examination

The written examination consists of approximately 100-150 questions in multiple choice format covering the following sections:

  • Basic Math

  • Reading Comprehension

  • Tools, Equipment and Safe Work Practices

  • Mechanical Ability

  • Teamwork

  • Wildland Firefighting Questions

There is no study guide.

Arduous Pack Test

Candidates must pass the arduous pack test exam in under 45:00 minutes. The Arduous Pack Test consists of a three (3) mile hike with a 45-pound pack over level terrain. During the recruitment process, the Arduous Pack Test is coordinated by the OCFA at a nearby facility. We recommend you complete an Arduous Pack Test prior to the recruitment process so you are familiar with the physical expectations, however, a certificate of completion is not a substitute for competing this component of the recruitment process. please see below for additional information on the Arduous Pack Test.

Oral Panel Interview

The Oral Interview is a critical component of the hiring process. This is OCFA’s chance to learn about each applicant and their different defining qualifications, attributes and personal characteristics.

Fire Chief Interview

If you successfully pass all steps in the recruitment process, you will be invited to meet with the Fire Chief for final ranking. Interviews with the Fire Chief are approximately ten (10) minutes.