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Careers in the Reading Fire Department
Application Announcement going on until June 30, 2008, See http://www.readingpafire.com/firefighter-application.htm
The City of Reading is currently testing for the position of Paramedic. Applications have been received. Testing will resume until a list of candidates is compiled.
Testing for the position of Firefighter will begin after the Application process is completed.
DO NOT send Resumes, Certifications or Qualifications. The process for applying and testing is outlined below
Fire Suppression and EMS Careers in the Reading Fire Department are through testing only. Announcements are published in job searches, trade magazines, newspapers and here on our website. Applicants must be 18 years of age. There is currently no age limit for applying. Personnel are members of the International Association of Firefighters.
Getting hired as a firefighter or paramedic is a multi-step process.
- Announcements
- Application - must be certified, fee
- Testing - written examination - Recommended Reading
- Scores - puts you on list for continuing based upon your test score
- Physical - Your doctor must approve your participation in the Physical Agility Test (CPAT)
- CPAT - Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT Prep, PDF format 672kb)
+ only the number of applicants needed +Paramedic currently does not take this test
- Physical - Performed by Fire Department Physician
- Certification
- Announcement of Hiring
Entry level lists are good for three years.
For information about careers in Fire Fighting and Emergency Medical Services check this information from the Department of Labor
Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics Occupations
Once you have been hired
You will begin our 6 month fire academy located at 895 Morgantown Rd. http://www.co.berks.pa.us/fire/site/default.asp. During the academy you will be trained and certified in the following areas.
- PA DOH EMT-B
- PHTLS
- Basic Essentials of Firefighting
- Advanced Firefighting
- Engine Co Ops
- Truck Co Ops
- Firefighter I and II
- PA DOH Vehicle Rescue
- Rope Rescue I and II
- Trench and Collapse Rescue
- Elevator Rescue
- Hazmat Technician
- Pump Operations I and II
- EVOC
(you will attend all courses regardless of your level of training prior to hire)
At the end of the Academy, you will be placed on one of the 4 platoons. Your first assignment will be as a "Jumper" This position will have you working any position on one of the cities Engine companies. During this time, you may also be required to fill in as an EMT on one of the cities medic units. If there are no vacancies during your shift, personnel ride extra on the Rescue truck or with the platoon chief. You will remain a "Jumper" until permanent assignment.