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Fire Department Employment - Application & Written Exam

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1. If I have a valid EMT or Paramedic certification in another state, will I need to be certified through the State of South Carolina?

Those with a valid EMT or Paramedic certification must obtain South Carolina reciprocity by their reporting date/first day of the Academy. Visit the South Carolina Department of Health & Environmental Control website for more information: https://www.scemsportal.org/

2. I don’t live in Charleston. Can I still apply?

Yes.  However, upon employment, all Firefighters have  to move into the State of South Carolina.

3. Do veterans receives preference points?

We are thankful for your service!

We are thankful for your service!   A five-point preference will be awarded on the TEAS test for honorably discharged veterans or service members currently serving in the United States Armed Forces. To qualify for the veteran’s preference points, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Have separated under honorable conditions from any of the branches of the armed forces of the United Stated after having:
• Served on active duty for 181 consecutive days or more.

For points to be awarded, above documentation must be received prior to the written examination. 

We are proud to offer the following additional resources to Veterans:

• Certified VA approved school
• Veteran on-the-job training

4. How and when do I apply?

The Charleston Fire Department recruits for Firefighter approximately once per year. This varies depending on hiring needs. The only means of applying is online. To apply, go to the Employment page and search for Firefighter Trainee.

5. What does the application process consist of?

Only online applications will be accepted.  Applications may submitted through the employment portal: www.charleston-sc.gov/employment    

The following documents are required: 

• High School Diploma or equivalent and/or College Degree received by time of contingent offer
• Certified driving record from each state you have held a driver’s license (10-years total) (if applicable)
• Military discharge – DD214 (if applicable)
• EMT/Paramedic certification (if applicable) 
• Current CPAT certification (if applicable)

⁂ Applications without required documents will not be accepted. 

* Before applying, please read this guide in its entirety. 

6. What's involved in the hiring process?

Applicants meeting the minimum requirements and who submit a completed application may be selected to proceed in the following:

TEAS Test - Applicants must pass the TEAS test to proceed to the Physical Ability Test (PAT).

Essay Questions – Applicants will be asked to provide responses to a series of questions. Candidates will move forward based on highest to lowest evaluation scores and based on department needs.

Physical Ability Test (PAT) – PRACTICE – Optional (not required)

Physical Ability Test (PAT) – Required for those who do not possess a valid CPAT certificate or have passed the CFD administered PAT with the minimum required passing score within the 12 months preceding the application close date.   

Applicants who pass the PAT will be eligible for an oral board interview

ORAL BOARD INTERVIEW - As a condition of employment.  Selected candidates must successfully pass a Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), background check, pass a comprehensive medical, and psychological evaluation. Selection will be based on overall qualifications, oral board interview process, and the needs of the City.

⁂ Applicants will be selected based on the department needs for future recruit academies

7. What is the minimum age for applicants?

You must be at least 18 years of age on or before the date of application.

8. I was a firefighter somewhere else. Do I have to take the written exam, and/or do I have to attend the fire academy?

Your experience as a firefighter may help in the testing process, but the Charleston Fire Department does not accept transfers.  You will be required to test and if successful, you will have to go through the training as any other firefighter recruit.

9. How can I obtain the study guide?

Applicants may obtain preparation materials at their own expense through the exam vendor, ATI Testing, by visiting: https://www.atitesting.com/teas-prep

10. Can the TEAS test be taken at another time?

Yes, results from ATI must be submitted by the predetermined deadline.

11. What should I bring to the written exam?

Hard copy of your exam notice and documentation is required. Per ATI’s policy, phones are not permitted on the testing site therefore a digital copy is not acceptable.

12. Will I need identification at the TEAS test?

Yes. You will need to present photo identification, or you will not be allowed to take the exam.

13. Do I have to be a high school graduate or have a GED?

Yes.

14. I have a relative working for the City of Charleston, can I still apply?

Yes.

15. Do I have to be a citizen of the United States?

Yes.  However, if you are a non-citizen, you must have acceptable documentation that you are a legal resident of the United States.  The documentation must be presented when a job offer is made.

16. Will I need a copy of my birth certificate when I turn in my application?

No.  You will have to present two (2) forms of identification at the time of hire (usually a driver’s license & social security card).

17. Will I need a copy of my military discharge orders (Form DD214) when I turn in my application?

Yes.  You will have to upload a copy at the time of application to obtain your Veteran Preference Points.

18. What if I have a police record?

All firefighter trainees go through a background screening process before being hired.  Criminal history and convictions will be reviewed prior to a final job offer.  Sworn public safety positions require closer scrutiny by hiring authorities during the background screening process.  Disclosure of all criminal history is required for the background screening process.

19. What is the maximum age for applicants?

The City of Charleston does not have a maximum age limit.