At least 21 years old and under the age of 35 unless exempt from such age limitation as provided in Section 5/10-2.1-6 of the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners Act.
Valid Driver's License
High school diploma or equivalent
State of Illinois (IDPH) Paramedic License (EMT-P). The EMT-P requirement may be satisfied by a letter issued by an accredited EMT-P training and certification program. Completion of the program within 3 months of application.
Successful completion of the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) with Ladder Climb Certification conducted by Licensed Agency within 12 months prior to the conditional offer of employment.
Must pass background and polygraph examination.
At conditional offer, must have State of Illinois (IDPH) Paramedic License (EMT-P).
At conditional offer, must pass psychological and medical examinations.
Starting Salary
As of January 1, 2025, the starting salary for a Firefighter/Paramedic is $78,747. The salary range is $78,747-$111,886. Please click here to view the current IAFF contract and wage schedules.
Benefits
The City of DeKalb provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, HSA and flexible spending accounts, deferred compensation with match, fire pension, wellness bonus, education bonus, longevity pay, clothing allowance and paid time off including vacation, sick leave and Kelly days.
Residency Requirements
Within 12 months of the start date of employment, a Firefighter/Paramedic must live within 40 miles of Station 1 at 700 Pine Street. Please click here to view the residency map.
Hiring Process
Complete the City of DeKalb application.
Complete Personnel History Questionnaire (PHQ) and Fire Team Exam through National Testing Network.
Oral interview with the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners
Polygraph examination
Background investigation
Psychological examination
Medical examination
Preference Points
Preference Points may be given to candidates who have earned their Basic Operation Firefighter (Firefighter II) Certification, have military experience, and/ or are currently meeting residency requirements.
Board of Fire and Police Commission
The Board recruits, selects and appoints qualified candidates to fill vacancies, determines testing and selection processes for the promotional process, and conducts disciplinary hearings or appeals of disciplinary action in the Fire and Police Departments.
