Fire Recruitment Information Sheet
This information sheet has been prepared to explain how Hastings Fire job openings are filled.
Application
Entrance Exam Procedure
The City of Hastings requires a Firefighter exam designed to assess your abilities important to this particular position. This exam is offered by appointment only (usually only once per year the end of September) and is broken down into three sections:
The written, multiple-choice exam will count as 30% of your final score.
Two essay questions will be administered designed to assess your ability to communicate effectively. These two questions will count as 10% of your final score.
The remaining 60% of your final score will consist of personal interview questions asked by an interview board. Questions may include problem solving, ethical issues, stress questions and customer service.
A pass/fail physical agility test is also required and will be scheduled for the same day as the aptitude test.
Please plan to be here all day. We will work very hard to get you through the entire testing process in one day.
General Information
A preliminary background check will be completed by the Hastings Police Department.
Grades are provided to the applicant within 30 days of examination. A passing grade for the City exam is 70% or above. The physical agility is a pass/fail exam.
Test scores are valid for one year. You may not retake a test before the expiration date. A failed exam may be taken after six months (if offered).
When a firefighter position becomes vacant, the Fire Chief will request an Eligibility List consisting of the three highest passing scorers based on the Fire fighter exam. It is understood that failure of any of the tests (written and physical agility) may disqualify you from having your name placed on an eligibility list for employment with the Hastings Fire Department. The eligibility list does not provide any guarantee of employment. This list is established to discern the best candidates from the top ranked candidates.
The City of Hastings requires all Firefighters hired after September 1, 1995, to meet the following conditions of employment:
Maintain a valid State of Nebraska driver's license.
Maintain a satisfactory or better rating on all performance evaluations.
Maintain a passing grade on annual physical agility test.
Pass a physical given by the City physician. (Post job offer)
All Firefighters hired after September 1, 1995, are prohibited from using any tobacco products while on duty. Failure to comply with this condition of employment shall constitute just cause for disciplinary action.
In accordance with the Immigration Reform and Control act of 1986, all employers are required by law to document your eligibility for employment. You must submit original documents that establish employment authorization and identity within THREE working days of employment. The most common forms of identification used are driver's license and social security card. However, additional documents are accepted.
Fingerprint confirmation must be received from the Federal Bureau of Investigation prior to completion of probationary period.