Steps of the Hiring Process for Firefighters

Our Process

* Note:  Steps 1-3 may not be conducted in the stated order.

Step 1 – Application for Employment

All interested parties must complete the online submission process, which includes your resume.  If selected for further consideration, you will also be asked to complete an Authorization for Release of personal records and/or other forms.

Resumes will not be accepted by email, in person, by mail, or by any other delivery method in lieu of online submission.  False or misleading information will result in immediate disqualification or termination if discovered after being employed.

If a potential applicant has any disability that causes him/her to be unable to complete the online submission, contact Human Resources to request a reasonable accommodation.

Step 2 – Oral Panel Interview

An interview to assess applicants’ knowledge, experience, decision-making skills, communication skills, and judgment ability will be conducted by the Department. The interview panel will select the top fix (6) or seven (7) candidates to move forward in the selection process.

Step 3 – Physical Agility Test

The Physical Agility Test (PAT) is designed to measure strength, agility, and endurance.  The exam follows the Georgia Certified Firefighters Physical Agility Test and will consist of a stair climb, ladder extension, ventilation exercise, hose advance, rescue drag, and ladder removal/replacement.

Step 4 – Conditional Offer of Employment

A conditional offer of employment will be made to a qualified applicant following the selection process.  This offer is contingent upon the applicant successfully completing and passing the remaining steps of the hiring process.

Step 5 – Background Investigation

All applicants will submit to a complete Background Investigation.  As part of the background investigation, we will check the applicant’s employment history, financial, education, and military records, as well as personal references.  Please note that the background investigation is ongoing and may begin as soon as the application for employment is received.

Step 6 – Polygraph

All sworn positions in the Fire Department require the applicant to submit to a Polygraph Examination.  A polygraph-certified Police Department employee or the contractor employed by the City will administer polygraphs.  If results indicate deception, the applicant will be given the opportunity to explain, deny or admit the deception.  A second examination may be administered at the discretion of the City if it is determined to be necessary for consideration of the applicant continuing in the process.

Step 7 – Medical Evaluation / Drug Screen

The Medical Evaluation is thorough, and it is essential that candidates be in excellent health with no conditions which would restrict his/her ability to perform work safely.  This exam will include but is not limited to the following:  EKG, Substance Abuse Screening, Medical Exam, and a TB Test.

Step 8 – Psychological Evaluation

All public safety positions in the Fire Department require the applicant to submit to a Psychological Examination.  The Psychological Evaluation consists of written psychological tests as well as an individual oral interview and evaluation by a contracted party on factors related to successful performance in the difficult and stressful job of a Firefighter.  The information evaluated includes psychological tests as well as background findings.