Employee Requirements – Part-Time Firefighter
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:
- Review the Application Process – PT
- Understand the Hiring Process Overview – PT
- Learn about Salary & Benefits – PT
- Read our Helpful Hints
- Download the application
