The Morgantown Fire Department is taking applications for entry-level firefighters.
“Becoming a firefighter is a great responsibility with a rewarding outcome. Being a firefighter is more than just a career,” Chief Mark Caravasos said. “We welcome people from all walks of life who want to join our team, protecting the residents of our community.”
Applications can be obtained from the Morgantown City Clerk’s Office at 389 Spruce St. or on the city’s website at morgantownwv.gov/jobs. The completed application and a $25 application fee must be turned in to the city clerk’s office by 5 p.m. Oct. 18.
The application packet has a verified physical release form, which needs to be filled out by a physician and brought with the applicant on the day of their agility test, according to Caravasos.
The agility test is 1 p.m. Oct. 26, at the Northside Fire Station.
Caravasos said the agility test is not easy and is designed to test an applicant’s stamina and endurance.
Morgantown’s YouTube page has a five minute video of the six-step agility test. The test includes stair climb, hose drag, equipment carry, forcible entry and search and rescue exercises.
The entire test must be finished in seven minutes and 15 seconds, according to the video.
Candidates will have two opportunities to practice the agility exam, Caravasos said. Both agility exam open houses will be held at Northside Fire Station from 1p.m.-5p.m. The first will be Sept. 21 and the second Oct. 19.
Applicants who pass the agility test will be given a book to study for the 100-question, written Civil Service Exam which will be given Nov. 25. The exact time and location for the test hasn’t been determined.
Applicants need to score at least 70% on the written exam. Caravasos said all the answers are in the study book.
Those who pass both exams will be placed on an employment list, and when there is movement in rank or someone retires, they will be called on to advance in the hiring process, Caravasos said.
New firefighters must establish and maintain a permanent residence within a 15-air mile radius of 228 South High St., following a one-year probationary period, according to Caravasos.
More information can be found at morgantownwv.gov/jobs or by calling the city clerk’s office at 304-284-7439.
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