The department expects to open recruitment for firefighters again this Fall/Winter, 2024. 

When recruitment is open, applicants should ensure they follow directions carefully, fill out all applicable data fields, and attach all required documents. Failure to attach appropriate documentation or discrepancies noted on the application, could result in rejection of the application. 

Applications will be screened and reviewed to verify minimum qualifications. HR will then notifying applicants if they are moving forward in the selection process. Notifications may not be received by an applicant until a couple months after the job posting has been closed.

Applicants will be notified by the department to schedule their first-round interview. These will be conducted virtually via MS Teams. After first-round interviews, notifications will be sent from HR letting applicants know if they are moving forward in the selection process.

If an applicant is selected to move forward in the process, they will attend a second-round interview. These are conducted in person and require travel to Meridian. Either prior to or after the interview, applicants will go through a physical fitness evaluation test the same day or following day. Details of this evaluation will be provided during the time of scheduling. 

Once candidates are selected, a conditional job offer will be extended. A formal job offer is pending the successful completion of a background screening and pre-employment physicals examination by our department physician. 

After a conditional offer of employment is accepted, correspondences from additional fire department personnel will occur. 

Entry Level:

• Our entry level academy is 16-18 weeks long and will be held at the Public Safety Training Center and Station 1. Recruits will be on a 40 hour per week schedule during the duration of the academy.
• Essential firefighting skills will be taught with an emphasis on physical fitness. Performance benchmarks must be maintained throughout the academy to successfully graduate.

Lateral:

• Our entry level academy is 5-6 weeks long and will be held at the Public Safety Training Center and Station 1. Recruits will be on a 40 hour per week schedule during the duration of the academy.
• Remedial firefighting skills will be taught with an emphasis on physical fitness. Performance benchmarks must be maintained throughout the academy to successfully graduate.

Once recruits graduate from the academy they will be placed on a 48/96-hour shift schedule. Members will be assigned to a Captain who oversees their probationary training. Performance benchmarks must be maintained throughout the probationary period.

The probationary period is one (1) year from date of hire.