All candidates must be at least 18 years of age at the time of appointment to a firefighter position.
Basic Requirements
Age Requirement
Certification & Education Requirements
High school diploma or equivalent. A valid motor vehicle license is also required.
Residency Requirement
Though not a requirement to apply, members of the Bureau of Fire must reside within Lancaster County upon being sworn in.
Written Testing & Interview
Written Examination
You must pass a written examination with a minimum score of 70%. Prospective candidates are required to complete the Public Safety Self-Assessment and FireTEAM test. The FireTEAM exam will test the following: behavior and human relations, mechanical aptitude, reading comprehension, and math skills. Candidates are responsible for scheduling and paying for their exam through the National Testing Network.
Oral Interview
Top scoring candidates will move on to the oral board interview. The interview will be conducted by a panel of fire bureau and City staff. Applicants must pass with a minimum score of 70%.
Physical Fitness Test & Requirements
Candidate Physical Ability Test
Candidates that pass the interview will be invited to participate in the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT). The CPAT consists of eight critical tasks that simulate job duties on the fire ground which require high levels of cardiopulmonary endurance, muscular strength, and muscular endurance. During the entire test the candidate must wear a 50 lb. weighted vest (simulating the weight of firefighters protective clothing and equipment).
This is a PASS/FAIL test. Candidates must pass to be included on the eligibility list.
CPAT Introduction VideoCPAT Events In Order
- Stair Climb (climbing stairs while carrying an additional 25 lb. simulated hose pack)
- Ladder Raise and Extension (placing a ground ladder at the fire scene and extending the ladder to the roof or a window)
- Hose Drag (stretching uncharged houseline’s, advancing lines)
- Equipment Carry (removing and carrying equipment from fire apparatus to fireground)
- Forcible Entry (penetrating a locked door, breaching a wall) and
- Search (crawling through dark unpredictable areas to search for victims)
- Rescue Drag (removing 165 lb victim or partner from a fire building)
- Ceiling Pull (locating fire and checking for fire extension)
Other Requirements
- You must be a U.S. Citizen.
- You must pass a medical examination and drug screening.
- You must pass a psychological assessment.
- You must pass an extensive background investigation.
- You must be currently hold or be able to pass and maintain EMT certification through the National Registry.
- You must be able to attend and successfully the HACC Fire Academy.
- You must be willing and able to work daytime and overnight shifts.
