Hoffman Estates is a vibrant community located 30 miles northwest of Chicago. Incorporated in 1959, it has grown steadily over the years, with a population of around 52,000 people spread across 21.3 square miles. The town continues to expand, offering a great quality of life with affordable housing, top-rated schools, and convenient access to major highways, rail lines, and O’Hare International Airport.

Home to several well-known businesses such as Sears Holdings, the Sears Centre Arena, Siemens Healthcare, and Cabela’s, Hoffman Estates also boasts beautiful parks, open spaces, and three large forest preserves that provide over 4,000 acres of trails and recreational areas. This makes it an ideal place to live, work, and raise a family.

The Department

The Hoffman Estates Fire Department has a long-standing reputation for excellence and professionalism. Established in 1959, the department provides essential fire protection and emergency medical services to the community. With four fire stations covering 21.3 square miles, the department responds to approximately 5,400 calls each year. It includes specialized units such as hazardous materials, technical rescue, and dive teams, and is known for its commitment to training and innovation.

The department was one of the first in Illinois to integrate paramedics into fire service, and it remains a leader in public safety. As of now, there are at least five (and possibly up to seven) openings for firefighter/paramedics, making this a great opportunity to join a respected and growing team.

The starting salary for a Hoffman Estates firefighter/paramedic is $61,043 per year.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for employment, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Be a U.S. citizen;
• Hold a valid driver’s license with eligibility to drive in Illinois;
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• Have corrected vision of 20-20 and no color blindness;
• Have sufficient hearing to perform firefighting duties;
• Be able to read, write, speak, and understand English;
• Provide proof of an EMT-P license from the Illinois Department of Public Health;
• Submit a valid CPAT and Ladder Climb card from a licensed agency by July 12, 2014;
• Be between 21 and 35 years old, unless previously employed as a full-time firefighter in Illinois.

Firefighter Preference Points

Preference points may be awarded based on certain qualifications, including veterans' status, educational background, and prior firefighting experience. These points can enhance your application during the selection process.

Application Process

Applications are managed by Selection Works. The cost is $40, non-refundable. Applications will be available from May 7 to June 13, 2014. All documents must be submitted by 2:00 p.m. on June 13, or you will be considered ineligible.

You can purchase the application through the provided link. Once purchased, the application will be delivered as a PDF. Make sure to save it and complete it using Adobe Reader. Instructions will be included in the document.

Testing Process

The testing will include a written exam and a situational judgment test. Both will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2014, at Hoffman Estates High School. You must arrive by 9:00 a.m. for check-in and orientation. The written exams will determine your initial eligibility, and preference points will be added afterward.

Following the written tests, successful candidates will proceed through additional steps, including a polygraph, background check, oral interview, medical evaluation, and more.

Once hired, new firefighters must complete a 12-month probation period and obtain specific certifications within a set timeframe.

Thank you, Dan.