Full-Time Employee Requirements

Part-time firefighter candidates must meet the following minimum requirements to be considered for employment with the West Dundee Fire Department.

Minimum Qualifications

Age Requirements

  • Must be at least 18 years of age at time of application
  • Must be 21 years of age before beginning firefighting duties

Education

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent required
  • Some college coursework in Fire Science or related field preferred

Licenses & Certifications

Required at time of application:

  • Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record

Required within specified timeframe of hire:

  • Firefighter I & II certification (or willingness to obtain through department training)
  • Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-Basic) certification (or willingness to obtain)

Preferred certifications:

  • Current Firefighter I & II certification
  • Current EMT or Paramedic certification
  • Hazmat Awareness and Operations
  • Driver/Operator certifications

See Required Tests & Licenses for complete details.

Physical Requirements

  • Must pass a medical examination
  • Must meet basic physical fitness standards
  • Must be able to pass Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) or equivalent
  • Vision and hearing must meet departmental standards
  • Must be able to perform essential job functions

Background & Character

  • Must be of good moral character
  • Must pass background investigation
  • Must pass drug screening
  • Must have no felony convictions
  • Must have acceptable criminal history per department policy

Availability

  • Must be available to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and holidays
  • Must be able to respond to emergency calls when on duty
  • Reliable attendance and punctuality required
  • Commitment to minimum monthly shift requirements

Residency

  • Must reside within reasonable response distance
  • West Dundee residents may receive preference points
  • See Preference Points for details

Preferred Qualifications

The following qualifications, while not required, will strengthen your application:

  • Prior firefighting or emergency services experience
  • Volunteer firefighting experience
  • EMT or Paramedic certification already obtained
  • Technical rescue training
  • College coursework in Fire Science
  • Military service (honorable discharge)
  • Strong mechanical aptitude
  • Team-oriented mindset

Training Opportunities

The West Dundee Fire Department supports part-time firefighters in obtaining required certifications:

  • Department may provide or sponsor firefighter training academies
  • EMT training assistance may be available
  • Ongoing training and education provided
  • Experienced firefighters provide mentorship

Next Steps

If you meet these requirements: