Hopkins Searching for a New Firefighter

(The following news release comes from the .)

The Hopkins Fire Department is hiring for the position of firefighter. Application deadline is June 1 at 4:00 p.m.

The Hopkins Fire Department is a blend of schoolteachers, managers, truck drivers, service technicians and sales representatives—just to mention a few. The strength of the department lies in this diversity of people dedicated to giving back to the community in an exciting way.

Those interested are encouraged to attend the hiring informational meeting on May 21, 2012 at 7:30 p.m. Go to Firefighter for more information.

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Selection process

All applicants must complete the following to be considered for the position:

• Written Exam - General Aptitude
  9 am, June 2 (arrive early, doors close at 9 am)
• Physical Agility Test
  1 pm, June 2 (following the written exam)
• Oral Interview Panel
  June 9 and 10 (times to be determined)
• Fire Chief Interview
  Week of June 11 (times to be determined)
• Psychological Exam
  Week of June 18 (all day event)
• Background Check
• Medical Exam
  Week of June 25 (times to be determined)
• Drug Screening

Tentative start during the week of July 9.

Qualifications

Firefighters must:

• be at least 18 years old
• have a valid Minnesota Driver's License
• pass a physical agility and mental aptitude test
• complete a medical examination, drug test and interview with the hiring committee

Benefits (as of Jan 1, 2011)

In their first year, firefighters receive on-call pay of $8.97 per hour for each emergency response and drill attendance. After their first year, firefighters receive $13.52 an hour for emergency response and drills. Some activities are not paid. 

Firefighters who complete at least five years of service with the department are eligible for a pension.

Training and time commitment

New members receive basic firefighting and emergency medical training. Training is usually done on weeknights. There are also regularly scheduled weekly in-house training drills, as well as educational courses provided through Hennepin Technical College. Continuing education is offered throughout a firefighter's career.

• Mandatory meetings and drills will be required approximately 3 hours per week. Activities are held on Thursday evenings although other arrangements can be made if necessary.
• Basic firefighting and medical training will take 3 to 6 hours per week for at least the first year.
• Responding to emergencies takes about 4 hours each week.

There are also opportunities to be a part of special projects such as standbys, community service and fire prevention activities. Depending on your commitment, you could spend 2 to 8 hours each week involved in these activities.

Working around your job

Getting released from work to respond to calls is a matter between you and your employer. Some employers permit their employees to respond to emergencies during the work day.