What is the NNFD hiring procedure?

First, candidates must submit a completed on-line application to the City’s Department of Human Resources (https://www.jobs-nngov.com). Next, follow the screen prompts and call the displayed phone number to register for the Written Testing Process. Only after these steps, can you be active in the process.

The selection process includes the successful completion of: written testing process, physical agility test, background checks, interview and polygraph test.

Each selection process is a stand-alone process. Therefore, candidates interested in continuing to seek a Firefighter-Medic Recruit position with the City of Newport News must reapply during each open application period.

Are there any age requirements or other prerequisites to be eligible for the NNFD Selection Process?

You must be between the ages of eighteen (18) and sixty-three (63) to be eligible to apply. No previous experience is necessary. There are some DMV point accumulation and conviction circumstances that may prevent a candidate from beginning the selection process.

How important is physical fitness?

Maintaining a good physical condition is extremely important in Firefighting/EMS duties. Fire academy recruits must pass a physically demanding Work Performance Test in order to successfully complete the training program.

Is the job stressful?

Yes, at times the Firefighting/EMS job is stressful. However, training, physical fitness, and Fire Department support all help to minimize stress.

Is the job safe?

The job is as safe as we can make it. Firefighting and EMS duties contain inherent dangers. Training, equipment, teamwork, and applied individual study all maximize safety.

What is the work schedule?

Training programs for Firefighter-Medic Recruits are typically scheduled for Monday through Friday, 7 AM to 5 PM. Periodically, there will be weekends where clinical programs will be scheduled and other days off will be provided.

Once assigned to a station, you will work 24-hour shifts, 8 AM – 8 AM. The rotating 3-days On / 4-days Off schedule averages to 56 hours a week and 10 days a month on-duty.

Are there any benefits with the job?

A career as a Firefighter-Medic can be rewarding in many ways, but specific benefits include: paid vacation and sick leave, hospital plan, dental and vision plans, ICMA participation, and reimbursable fitness center membership. Also, ex-military personnel may qualify for VA benefits during training.

For a look at select City benefits, and at FY2011 Fire Salary ranges, please see the Fire/Police salary schedule.

Do I attend and graduate from a training academy?

Yes. You are required to attend and graduate from the Tidewater Regional Fire Academy (TRFA) and EMT-Intermediate training.

How long do TRFA and EMT training last?

Structured recruit training lasts approximately 32 weeks. Each program is scheduled for at least 16 weeks.

Where does the recruit training take place?

The Newport News Fire Department Training Center is located in the Lee Hall area of the City. The address is:

Most of the phases of the selection process also take place at this location. Additionally, the NNFD Training Center grounds host the Regional Burn Building and Regional Fire Training Tower.

What have you got when you graduate?

TRFA graduates are certified in Firefighter I & II, Haz-Mat Operations, Rope I, Vehicle Rescue II, and May Day! Firefighter Down. You are also nationally registered and certified to at least the Emergency Medical Technician–Intermediate level.

Will I work both Fire and EMS disciplines?

Yes. NNFD is comprised of dual-role personnel, therefore you will rotate between medic unit and fire apparatus duties approximately 50/50%.

If I have additional questions, who do I contact?

Contact the NNFD Recruitment Officer in the Training Center at (757) 969-1800, or via e-mail: recruiter@nngov.com.