Portage Fire Department Hiring Process
The Portage Fire Department is dedicated to maintaining a fair, transparent, and merit-based hiring process. Our goal is to select the most qualified candidates through a series of assessments that evaluate knowledge, physical ability, and job readiness.
The hiring process includes:
- A general knowledge written test
- A structured interview
- A three-part physical agility test, which includes:
This comprehensive approach ensures that candidates are well-prepared for the physical and mental demands of the job.
Merit Board Oversight
Our hiring process is managed and reviewed by the Portage Civilian Merit Board. This board evaluates each applicant’s experience, certifications, and overall performance throughout the hiring stages to ensure selections are made based on merit, capability, and fairness.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The City of Portage is committed to providing a workplace free of harassment and discrimination. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by law. All departments strictly comply with federal, state, and local regulations to promote fairness in employment.
Hiring Timeline and Requirements
- Applications are accepted year-round.
- Up to three hiring cycles may occur each year: March, July, and November.
Minimum Requirements to Apply:
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid driver’s license
By Interview Day, Applicants Must Have:
- Ladder climb and swim test completed within the last 12 months (365 days)
- Written exam completed within the last 24 months (730 days)
(Applicants may be exempt from the written test if they meet one of the following):- Hold an Associate degree or higher
- Possess a Paramedic license
- Have official acceptance into an accredited paramedic program (via entrance testing)
Scoring and Placement on Hiring List
To be placed on the hiring list, applicants must achieve a minimum overall score of 70%, based on:
- Work history
- Certifications
- Interview performance
Job Offer Requirements
To be eligible for a job offer, candidates must:
- Hold at least an Indiana EMT-B certification, or be eligible for reciprocity
➤ (Indiana Reciprocity application click here) - Have a valid CPAT dated within the past 12 months
- Be at least 18 years old and younger than 40, or already enrolled in the INPRS ’77 Pension Plan
⚠️ Important: If a candidate does not meet the required certifications within 60 days after the hiring list is certified, they will be removed from the list. However, they may reapply in a future hiring cycle.
Final Steps
Employment is contingent on:
- A background check
- A medical exam
- A psychological evaluation