Hiring Process

Testing Process

The application window for entry-level firefighter/EMT positions closed on Nov. 29, 2024. The first recruit class hired from the 2024 register is expected to begin in August 2025.

FireTEAM Test and Public Safety Self Assessment 1 Video Exams

The FireTEAM test includes reading, math and mechanical reasoning components as well as a scored human relations exam. The assessment takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete.  Rescheduling an exam will be allowed at least one week in advance of a scheduled exam. You are encouraged to arrive one-half hour early as late arrivals will not be admitted to the examination site. Reasonable testing accommodation is available. FireTEAM practice tests are available: The cost for the extended version is $38.00 and the basic version is $24.99; learn more on their website.

• Option 1: Take a video test (FireTEAM) between Oct. 4 and Dec. 10, 2024, conducted by the National Testing Network (NTN) either online or in-person at NTN testing centers. Important note: If you select Option 1, you forfeit the ability to transfer a current FireTEAM exam score (see Option 2 below).
• Option 2: Transfer any current FireTEAM score completed between Oct. 4, 2023 and Dec.10, 2024. Applicants who elect to transfer scores will be able to add Seattle as a department following NTN's standard "department add" process. Seattle will only accept one of the above test results options.

The Public Safety Self Assessment 1 is completed online and takes approximately one-half hour to complete. The assessment is timed and once started, you will have one hour to complete it. You should arrange for a minimum of one hour on a computer with internet access. If needed, computer resources are available through Seattle or King County Public Libraries.

• Complete the Public Safety Self-Assessment 1 online and submit scores before December 10th, 2024.

These are virtual tests and may be completed remotely.

Applicants with questions regarding the virtual proctoring of the exams should contact NTN directly at (206) 428-3265, support@nationaltestingnetwork.com or Instant Message.

Support Phone and Ticketing Hours:

• Monday-Friday, 6:00am to 5:00pm PT
• Saturday-Sunday, 7:00am to 3:00pm PT

Oral Board Exam

If you complete and pass the Public Safety Self Assessment and the FireTEAM test and are eligible to proceed in the testing process, you will receive instructions to schedule an Oral Board exam. All candidates will receive their preliminary scores after Dec. 10, 2024. Oral Boards will be from Jan. 21 to Feb. 14, 2025 (these dates are tentative and will be adjusted as necessary).

This is an in-person exam and will require travel into the Seattle area.

Veteran Preference

Veteran's scoring criteria is applied to passing test scores for qualified candidates per Washington state law (RCW 41.01.010). Veterans wishing to claim preference points will be instructed to provide documentation to the Fire Exams unit that indicates an honorable discharge.

Firefighter Register

Applicants who successfully pass all portions of the testing process will be placed on the Firefighter Register. The top 25% of candidates on the register are added to a certified hiring list, which is forwarded to the Seattle Fire Department for further screening. Firefighter Registers are typically active for two years.

Pre-Employment Screening

Employment Packet

Eligible candidates will receive an employment packet to complete. The employment packet requests a variety of information, including employment, education history, references and EMT status. Any additional information you would like reviewed may be submitted with the employment packet. Packets may be submitted via email, mail, fax or in person.

Suitability Assessment

Eligible candidates will schedule an appointment to take a series of questionnaires. These questionnaires are used to evaluate your personal history, personality style and emotional stability. The suitability assessment is pass/fail.

This is a virtual assessment and may be completed remotely.

Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)

To prepare for the CPAT, you should engage in advanced physical training, target muscle groups used in lifting, pushing, pulling, carrying and other actions related to firefighter tasks. A workout program may include distance running, sprints, rowing, stair climbing with weight pack and weight lifting to develop both the upper and lower body. Download/View the Candidate Preparation Guide for information about specific physical training and weight lifting in preparation for the CPAT.

The CPAT exam is comprised of eight stations that are completed in one continuous sequence. The test is pass/fail. Download/view the CPAT Orientation Guide for detailed information.

This exam may be completed at any National Testing Network location, but may require travel.

Interview

Eligible candidates will meet with a hiring panel for a formal business interview. Selected candidates will sign a conditional offer of employment. A final hire offer will be extended barring a failed medical, psychological or background check.

This is an in-person interview and will require travel into the Seattle area.

Medical + Psychological + Background Check

The medical exam includes a comprehensive medical history, blood and urine samples, body fat composition, hearing/vision testing, treadmill, physical condition assessment and other related medical tests. You will be asked to provide complete and accurate information in a medical questionnaire and during the medical examination with our physician. Our physicians reference the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) guidelines when conducting firefighter candidate medical evaluations. You may review NFPA 1582 online at www.nfpa.org. This is an in-person assessment and will require travel into the Seattle area.

The psychological exam includes a series of written questionnaires followed by an interview with a clinical psychologist. This is a virtual assessment and may be completed remotely.

The background check includes a careful review of criminal history and driving record. This is a virtual assessment and may be completed remotely.

Questions

Questions regarding submitting an application, test dates and veterans scoring criteria should be directed to the Seattle Department of Human Resources Fire & Police Exams Unit via email to firecareers@seattle.gov.

Technical assistance with scheduling the FireTEAM test or completing the PSSA Part 1 should be directed to National Testing Network at (866) 563-3882.

Questions regarding pre-employment screening or the job of a Seattle firefighter should be directed to the Seattle Fire Department Recruitment Office via email to SFD.Recruitment@seattle.gov.