A firefighting career offers job security, a decent income, and a new challenge every day. If you are interested in joining this profession, then read this comprehensive guide on how to become a Firefighter in Oklahoma.
Do you have the mental and physical strength to perform tasks under dangerous and adverse conditions? If yes, then you should start a career in firefighting.
Aspiring Firefighters are expected to meet several physical, medical, and academic standards. Take a look at the table below to learn about the job requirements that firefighting professionals are expected to meet. The data displayed below has been taken from BLS.
Career Outlook
BLS has predicted that the rate of employment of Firefighters will increase by 5% from 2018 to 2028.
Steps to Become a Firefighter in Oklahoma
Read these guidelines to understand how to become Firefighter in Oklahoma.
Step 1: Meet the Academic Requirements
Only those candidates are eligible to apply for the firefighting position who have completed their high school education. While advanced degrees are not mandatory, it is highly recommended that individuals obtain an Associate’s degree or a postsecondary non-degree award in a fire science field.
Step 2: Pass a Battery of Aptitude Tests
Applicants who are shortlisted are then invited to take several exams – these include a written exam and a physical ability test. After clearing these aptitude tests, candidates have to appear for a board interview and clear a polygraph exam, psychological test, and a pre-placement physical screening. Fire Departments look for candidates who have high levels of honesty and integrity. Therefore, candidates are also required to clear a rigid background investigation to ensure that they have a sound moral character.
Step 3: Complete a Training Program
Shortlisted candidates must attend a firefighting training program. This program usually lasts for several months – the Tulsa Fire Department Cadet Academy and Edmond Fire Department Recruit Academy lasts for around 5 months. After passing out from the academy, candidates are hired on probation.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Firefighter in Oklahoma?
It takes several months to become a Firefighter in the ‘Sooner State.’ First, candidates have to complete their high school education, and later they can pursue a 1 to 2-year long Associate’s degree or a Certificate program in a relevant discipline.
Once the individual has met the academic requirements, he/she has to appear for several tests, including a physical test and a written test. This is usually followed by a board interview, a polygraph test, a medical check, and a psychological test. Those who successfully clear the aptitude tests and screenings, have to then enroll in a fire cadet program. This program can take up to five months to complete.
What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Firefighter in Oklahoma?
Individuals who want to work as Firefighters in Oklahoma have to fulfill several requirements, some of which are mentioned below.
The individual must:
-
Possess a GED or a high school diploma.
-
Not have any felony convictions.
-
Have an Oklahoma state driver’s license.
-
Be able to clear a testing process and several pre-employment assessments.
-
Have the ability to learn firefighting principles and medical procedures.
-
Be willing to work irregular hours.
Every county and city has its own hiring process and age/certification requirements. For instance, the Oklahoma City Fire Department requires candidates to obtain an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) license before the completion of their probationary period.
When it comes to the age requirements, the Oklahoma City Fire Department requires candidates to be between 18 to 44 years of age, whereas the City of Tulsa's Fire Department requires applicants to be between 18 and 45 years of age. The age requirement usually varies from one city to another; therefore you should consult your local department before submitting the job application.
How Much Do Firefighters Earn in Oklahoma?
BLS has reported that Firefighters employed in Oklahoma earned a yearly mean income of $44,860 in 2019.
Firefighters in Other States
How to Become a Firefighter in Colorado
Becoming a firefighter is not easy and one of the biggest reasons for that is the nature of the job. If you want to learn how to become a firefighter in Colorado, then you will have to meet certain requirements and complete certain steps. These requirements and steps might vary from city to city so, it is very important that you do proper research before applying for the job. As per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, firefighters employed in Colorado in 2019 earned $63,050 as mean annual income, a figure that was considerably higher than its corresponding national average.