QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS FROM THE CANDIDATE FORUM HELD FEBRUARY 28, 2008
Please note that we received several similar questions. Your exact question may not appear, however, we covered all questions asked in our responses below.
How many will be hired for this hiring process?
This recruiting process is being conducted to prepare for anticipated vacancies due to retirements. Approximately 100 employees are eligible to retire within the next year, but there is no way to know how many eligible employees will choose to retire. The Department typically hires 25-30 recruits per academy. Academies will be scheduled to meet the staffing needs of the Department.
Do you have a projected timeline for the first academy, regarding the new list?
We do not have the date for the first academy that will be hired off the new list.
What is the absolute last date that may be on my CPAT card to qualify?
You must have a valid CPAT card that is less than 1 year old at the time of your oral interviews, tentatively scheduled for May 19-30, 2008.
Will letters of recommendation be considered during the hiring process? And if so, when should we submit these?
You may submit letters of recommendations to the background investigator should you reach that stage in the process.
Does SJFD award extra hire points for persons who live in Santa Clara County?
No.
Will you let candidates know what are disqualifications?
Candidates will receive written notification of their status throughout the application and testing process.
How much of your “score” is based on qualifications, written scores and oral scores?
Please click on the following link http://www.sjfd.org/Recruitment/qualifications.htm for information on the qualifications. Please click on the following link http://www.sjfd.org/Recruitment/application.htm for information on the selection process.
What are the main qualities you (SJFD) are looking for in a candidate? Personality or Skills or both?
It is a combination of several things. The background investigation gives a clear picture of a candidate as well as the written and oral psychological exams that are given close to the completion of the background process. Please click on the following link http://www.sjfd.org/Recruitment/qualifications.htm for information on the qualifications. Please click on the following link http://www.sjfd.org/Recruitment/application.htm for information on the selection process.
On the background investigation, what kind of crime would disqualify me?
Each individual’s situation is based on its own merits. Please click on the following link http://www.sjfd.org/Recruitment/application.htm and see the information under Selection Process Phase II.
What type of experience will you be looking for in your candidates in order to be highly qualified candidates?
Please visit our website at www.sjfd.org, click on Employment, and then click on Qualifications and Firefighter Recruitment for information on the minimum and desirable qualifications.
Will you be disqualifying Paramedics from EMT positions?
During the application process, candidates will be asked if they are applying as an EMT, a Paramedic or both. Paramedics who indicate they are applying for both EMT and Paramedic positions will be eligible for consideration for an EMT Academy.
Can I apply for both positions?
If you have the qualifications for both EMT and Paramedic you may apply for both.
How does military experience play into the hiring process?
The City of San José has a Veteran's Preference Policy (http://www.csj.gov/es/hrps/VeteransPreference.pdf) that applies to this recruitment. To claim veteran's preference points, you must provide a copy of your military discharge form, Form DD214, when appearing for the written/practical examination for this recruitment. (For more information on the City's Veteran's Preference policy, visit the link above.)
How much time in advance do we need to schedule a ride-along?
You may schedule a ride-along at your convenience provided the station is able to accommodate your request. Please call to schedule a ride-along before going to the station.
How many ride-alongs can we do?
You may not request a ride-along within sixty (60) days of a prior one. However, it’s a good idea to visit as many stations as your schedule permits to give you an overview of the Department’s 34 stations. Please call first.
Will SJFD be accepting laterals?
Current firefighters are eligible to apply, however, all candidates are hired as Recruits.
Does the organization of Los Bomberos Offer Scholarships?
Please contact Captain Alberto Olmos, President of Los Bomberos at Station 26 B shift at (408) 277-4626 for more information regarding scholarships.
Why does Milpitas have a volunteer fire-aide program, but SJFD does not have one? Explorers do not mirror MFD volunteer opportunities.
The Fire Department does not have a volunteer Firefighter program, however, volunteers are utilized in other areas of the Fire Department. Please check with the Milpitas Fire Department for any questions on their program.
What were some of the challenges experienced as a female during the process of becoming a firefighter?
Our Thanks to Captain Mary Gutierrez, who provided the response to this question. We encourage all applicants to read the information provided below.
Women who travel the path of becoming a firefighter face many of the same challenges as a man would. These challenges vary depending on the individual.
Challenges that each person may face regardless of gender include:
1. Competing for a highly competitive job where thousands of applicants apply for few positions. You need to stand out from the crowd. This includes being educated, dedicated and having life experience. Some of the qualities that can make you stand out are:
(Currently working for a Fire Department, Currently working as a Paramedic or EMT, Firefighter 1 and 2 and or Firefighter 1 Academy, EMT license / Paramedic license / well prepared resume / Volunteer work for the community / Volunteer or Paid-Call Position for a Fire Department / Military experience / Fitness Background to include organized sports / life experience / well spoken and articulate/ AA Degree / Bachelors Degree/ Masters Degree
2. It is important to stay focused and diligent so that as a candidate you are at the top of your game in being prepared at short notice for written exams, oral interviews and pre-hire physical ability tests and or the recruit academy.
3. It is often difficult to balance your family life with the rigorous demands of trying to become a firefighter. It is very important to have a strong support system so that you can remain focused and dedicate the time necessary.
4. Making connections with firefighters from the department you would like to work for is important. Current firefighters can spend time with you explaining the philosophy of the organization, their mission statement, and culture.
5. You should be extremely fit at this point in your life. Your fitness level (to include muscular strength, muscular endurance, and aerobic capacity) should be that of a top athlete. Do not wait to get hired to get in shape. You will be behind the game and struggle not only in the academy but also for the rest of your career. Lack of fitness leads to failing the physical abilities test (CPAT) to get hired, failure in the recruit academy or injury in the academy and on the line.
In regards to being a woman entering the fire service challenges can often be seen as obstacles if you are not adequately prepared. We all face the same demands regardless of gender. The culture of the fire service is like no other so take time talking to firefighters to see if it is a good fit for you. As a woman (and a man) you must be very confident both physically and mentally. Adequate preparation and a high fitness level help you obtain both of these. Women have been in the Fire Service in San José for 27 years now. Many of the obstacles that existed 27 years ago are long gone thanks to the women who paved the way and the leadership of this organization over the years. Men and women work side by side with pride and dedication to their work.
Because women are built different than men, we must work to develop and maintain upper body strength. Some women have no problems since they may have a background in sports and fitness since they were very young. Having this background aids both men and women in being successful.
Much of what we do as firefighters takes strength and endurance. It also requires technique and training. "Train for your job" and you will be successful. Think of yourself as a professional athlete. Always ready for game day. We all have weaknesses and must work to overcome them. Good advice would be to find a strong mentor to guide you through the process. San José Fire has 41 women whose years of service range from 27 years to 1 year of service. San José Fire has over 719 male firefighters whose years of service range from 46 years to 1 year.
Good Luck. You have chosen one of the most amazing, rewarding professions there is. The journey is worth it.
Captain Mary Gutierrez
What is the process for EMT’s who are certified in another county in order to work for SJFD?
If you receive a job offer from San José Fire you will be required to get accreditation in the County of Santa Clara. For information go to http://www.sccgov.org/portal/site/ems/agency and under Quick Links click on EMT Certification & Paramedic Accreditation.
Is there a guide or preparation sheet for the PHQ?
Please visit our website at www.sjfd.org, click on Employment, and then click on Selection Process to get information regarding the Personal History questionnaire.
What questions (PHQ) need to be date/time specific? (i.e. employment)
You will answer these questions based on the age of 18 and up.
Driving questions are from the age of 16 or the time that you got your license up to the present.
What information will be asked during the online application?
Applicants are required to provide a complete work history, and respond to the City’s standard candidate questions. In addition, candidates will be asked questions on how they meet minimum qualifications. Candidates must complete the entire application and respond to all questions.
Should I apply for another currently open position to understand what to expect?
Each Fire Department has its own hiring process. The San José Fire Department’s hiring process is explained on our website (www.sjfd.org) under the Employment, Selection Process section.
Do we get paid during the academy?
Yes. While in the Academy, Firefighter Recruits receive wages and are eligible to enroll in various medical benefits.
Do we have to relocate?
You are not required to live in the City of San José in order to work for the San José Fire Department.
