60 college credits (credits from paramedic school can be applied to the 60 required credits), New York State Paramedic Certification (HVCC and Cobleskill both have a Paramedic Program)
CIVIL SERVICE EXAM:
You must take and pass a written exam administered by Schenectady County Civil Service commission. The test is administered approximately every 2 years. After the test is given an eligibility list is established for those candidates that meet all the requirements. Preference may be given to residence of the City of Schenectady. You won’t be eligible to be hired until the educational portion is complete, but you are still eligible to take the civil service exam.
You may go to the Schenectady County Civil Service Commission any time during normal business hours. They are located in the County Office building at 320 State St. Schenectady, NY on the second floor. You can also call and ask when the next firefighter exam will be offered at (518) 388-4233, visit schenectadycounty.com or Google search Schenectady County Civil Service Commission.
Check in with Civil Service regularly to find out about upcoming exams. There is a very specific timeline as to when you must apply. You don’t want to miss any deadlines.
CANDIDATE PHYSICAL ABILITY TEST (CPAT):
To be eligible for appointment to the Schenectady Fire Department all candidates must take and pass a CPAT test. This will test your ability to perform the required tasks to be a firefighter. This test consists of 8 separate events and are performed in a row and timed. The events are: stair climb, hose drag, equipment carry, ladder raise and extension, forcible entry, search, rescue and ceiling breach and pull.
Detailed information will be given to eligible candidates prior to the CPAT test date. In the meantime the best way to prepare for this is by doing regular strength and cardio conditioning exercises. This test will be provided by the fire department.
MEDICAL EXAM:
It is a condition of employment that all candidates successfully pass a medical exam which follows the specifications of the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association). This exam will be provided by the Fire Department prior to appointment. You do not have to go and take this on your own.