Application and Testing Process

The current application process for the June 2025 Academy has now closed. We will update you here for when we are taking applications for the 2026 Academy. Below are general guidelines to prepare you for that application. 

Positions

Entry-Level Firefighter

We administer an entry-level testing process one to two times a year to establish a list of qualified candidates for our annual or bi-annual recruit academy(s). 

The process begins with our job posting for building an eligibility list. During this time, you will need to have or obtain your National Registry Emergency Medical Technician Basic (EMT-B) Certification OR State of Colorado EMT-Basic Certification, take the National Testing Network (NTN) FireTEAM written exam, and take the Candidate Physical Abilities Test (CPAT).  

Top-scoring candidates will be invited to fill out a formal application, AND participate in an online video interview. Selected candidates will be given conditional offers of employment and will start the pre-employment screening. A conditional offer does not guarantee a final offer.

Individuals who receive a final offer will be required to successfully complete our 20-22 week recruit training academy. The composition of the class will depend upon the needs of the department.  

Entry-Level Firefighter Paramedic

As above for your first year of employment. 

After the first year of probation has been completed, employees who have a NREMT-P or State of Colorado Paramedic Certification may be eligible to take the Paramedic Promotional Examination.

HIRING ELIGIBILITY 

In order to be considered for employment, a candidate must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Be at least 18 years of age by date of hire
• High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED)
• Have or be able to obtain a valid Colorado driver’s license
• Be able to pass the pre-employment background investigation, medical examination & drug screen, polygraph, and psychological testing
• Valid FireTEAM test score through the National Testing Network no more than 12 months prior to the testing process deadline
• Valid Candidate Physical Abilities Test (CPAT) no more the 12 months prior to the testing process deadline
• Have and maintain a current NREMT-Basic OR State of Colorado EMT-Basic Certification or above*
• You must not have been convicted of a crime that would affect your ability to certify with the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT). NREMT's Criminal Policy
• The City does not sponsor applicants for work visas. If hired, you will be required to provide proof or your eligibility to work in the United States.
• We do not permit the use of medicinal or recreational marijuana.

Veterans’ Preference:

To be eligible for Veteran’s Preference Points you must have an Honorable Discharge and submit the following documents to receive points. 

• Download the Veterans Preference Points Form

Claiming ten (10) points:

1. Submit Member 4 copy of your DD214.
2. Submit Veteran’s disability preference letter from the Department of Veteran’s Administration
3. Submit Complete CSFD Veteran’s Preference form.

Claiming five (5) points:

1. Submit Member 4 copy of your DD214.
2. Submit Complete CSFD Veteran’s Preference form

Perks & Benefits

• PTO (vacation, sick, and holidays)
• Health Insurance (includes medical, dental, and vision)
• Short & Long Term Disability
• HRA & Flexible Spending Accounts for Health & Dependent Care
• City Employee Medical Clinic & Pharmacy
• Basic & Voluntary Life Insurance
• Retirement Plan (through FPPA)
• Roth IRA & 457 Plans (voluntary)
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Uniform Allowance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Longevity Pay
• Wellness Programs, Fitness Classes & Gym Discounts

A CAREER THAT GIVES BACK

Before we are firefighters, we are people. One of the greatest draws to this profession is the ability to connect on a human level and make a meaningful difference, in potentially the worst moment of a person’ s life. When 911 is activated, it is normally due to circumstances that are beyond the normal scope of control. It is profoundly rewarding to have the opportunity to positively impact a frightening situation and help return a chaotic event to some level of normalcy.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

In addition to emergency response, we believe in strengthening the fabric of our community through providing fire safety education and demonstrations, participating in local events, creating platforms to interact with and develop the youth in our neighborhoods, and fostering relationships with key community advocates.

PEER SUPPORT

Given the nature of this career, our firefighters are often exposed to traumatic experiences which can have a detrimental impact on their mental health. We have made it a priority to take care of our own, so we offer internal health and wellness programs addressing physical, emotional, and mental relief. The department also has a chaplain who serves to provide the spiritual needs of all department members, regardless of religious affiliation or background.