1. Is there a written exam as part of the hiring process? 
Yes. Visit https://www.publicsafetyanswers.com/meridian for more information.

2. Is there a physical test as part of the hiring process? 
Yes. Details of this evaluation will be communicated to those applicants who successfully complete the second-round of interviews. 

Additionally, once an official offer of employment is extended, candidates will be required to take and pass a physical exam which is administered by the department physician. This includes a blood draw and stress test. 

3. If coming from out of state, how many times will I have to travel to Meridian?
Up to 3 times. Once for the physical fitness assessment, another time for an in-person interview and lastly for a physical exam. 

4. Is there an age limit to apply?
Applicants must be at least 18 years older to apply. 

5. Does MFD hire women?
Yes! MFD is a diverse and inclusive department that strives for excellence in serving our community.

6. Do I have to be a U.S. citizen to apply?
Candidates must be able to legally work in the United States.

7. How do I receive Veterans Credit in the testing process?
On your application, make sure you select Veterans Preference. It is also recommended to attach a copy of your DD214 to your application.  

• Must possess a High school diploma (GED) or equivalent
• Must possess a valid driver's license at the time of employment
• Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of employment
• Must possess Emergency Medical Technician, Advanced EMT, or Paramedic license

1. Do I need an EMT license to apply?
Yes, applicants must be in possession of their EMT license to be eligible for the academy. 

2. What if I have an EMT license from another state?
Any Candidate who has an EMT or Paramedic license from another state will have to take a National Registry written exam to obtain an Idaho EMS license.  The written exam is required for candidates who have not taken the National Registry Written test within 24 months for Paramedics, and 36 months for EMTs.

3. Do I have to have a National Registry?
No, but a National Registry written exam is required for Idaho EMS certification.

4. What are the Idaho Licensing Requirements?
For details regarding the State of Idaho Licensing Requirements please visit the Idaho Department of Health & Welfare website. 

1. Do I need a valid Idaho State license to apply?
No. Any valid, state-issued license is acceptable at the time of application. A valid Idaho drivers license will be required within 30 days of hire. 

1. How long is the academy?
Entry Level Academy is 18-20 weeks and our Lateral Academy is 5-6 weeks.

2. What is the work schedule during the academy?
40 hour work week, 4 x 10 schedule,  M-TH.

3. How many Recruit positions is MFD hiring for?
This varies per recruitment and is dependent on department need.

4. Where is the academy held?
Our academy takes place at our Public Safety Training Center and Station 1.

5. Is the Recruit Academy paid?
Yes, beginning the first day of the academy. Candidates provided an official job offer that successfully complete ALL pre-employment requirements become City of Meridian employees, they are paid as such. 

1. What is the work schedule for MFD?
48/96 shift schedule. 48 hours on, 96 hours off. Recruits who successful pass the academy are assigned to A, B, or C shifts.

2. What is the starting pay?
The salary for entry level firefighter is $34.61 per hour. This hourly rate is reflective of a forty-hour work week and will adjust accordingly following the completion of the academy. 

3. Does MFD have incentive pay programs?
Yes! We offer incentive pay in addition to base wages for educational degrees, EMT-Advanced and Paramedic certifications. Additional incentive pay is available as governed by the current Collective Labor Agreement.. 

4. What is your current staffing model?
We currently staff 3-4 personnel on the engines and 4-5 personnel on the trucks. 

1. Do I have to be in good shape to be a Firefighter? 
Yes. Firefighters are members of one of the most physically demanding occupations in the world. You must be in top physicals condition to perform the tasks required of a Firefighter. 

2. What are the physical fitness requirements for firefighters? 
Firefighting is a physically intensive career. Firefighters, just like law enforcement officers and military personnel, are considered "occupational athletes." Firefighters are regularly expected to lift 50-100lbs; push, pull, drag, and carry heavy and uneven weights, lift heavy objects overhead, climb stairs and complete physically difficult tasks in 50lbs of gear, and move through small spaces. There are many different ways to train to be a firefighter, and there is no one "right way" as every individual is different.

3. What does MFDs physical fitness test consist of?
Prior to being hired, applicants will complete a PT evaluation. Details of this evaluation will be communicated to those applicants who successfully complete the second-round of interviews. 

4. What kind of nutrition plan should I follow?
We recommend taking a look at the nutrition guide from the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). 

1. Who do I address my cover letter to?
“To Meridian Fire Department.”

2. Will a felony or misdemeanor conviction disqualify me from the application process?
Per City of Meridian Policy Handbook; "Should a criminal background check provide information relating to previous convictions of one or more felonies and/or misdemeanors, the Human Resource Director or designee shall review all pertinent information and recommend to the hiring department director whether or not to proceed with the hiring decision. Prior convictions do not automatically disqualify an individual from employment. However, special review and consideration will be made to ensure the safe and secure working environment of the City, its employees and facilities, and the public. The Human Resources Director may consult with Legal as part of the review process, if appropriate.

The Policy Handbook also states; "If the background check uncovers any misrepresentation on the application, transfer form, or information indicating the individual is not suited for employment, an offer will be withdrawn." 

3. Will tattoos affect my chances of getting hired?
Tattoos are allowed. However, per department policy, the display of any unprofessional or offensive tattoos is prohibited.

4. Will colorblindness disqualify me? Is there a vision requirement/limitation? 
Colorblindness may not disqualify a candidate from the application process. An eye exam will be administered by our department physician during a candidate's physicals exam. 

5. How do I learn more about Meridian Fire Department?

• Review our website and Department Reports
• Stop by a station to meet our crews
• Attend an upcoming job fair
• Attend public facing department events
• Follow us on social media

Meridian Firefighters Local 4627

Professional Firefighters of Idaho

West Ada School District