The entrance process consists of a four-phase evaluation including a written examination, a physical performance evaluation, an assessment center, and a complete medical examination and police background investigation. Failure of any phase will result in elimination from the process.
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Written Examination
The written test consists of items that evaluate the applicants:
- Content Reasoning Skills
- Decision-Making Skills
- Mechanical Reasoning Skills
- Problem-Solving Skills
- Reading Comprehension Skills
- Spatial Scanning Skills
The exam will be timed and a minimum passing score must be earned to proceed to the next phase.
Physical Ability Test
The physical performance assessment utilized by the Las Cruces Fire Department is a pass or fail event. Although the assessment utilizes activities that may be performed on the fire ground, the tasks are not specifically skill oriented. No special knowledge is required to be able to successfully complete all tasks in the allotted time. The physical performance assessment is judged on basic skills and abilities. The theory and purpose behind this evaluation are to assess individuals to determine whether or not they possess the minimum acceptable level of strength, agility, and stamina needed in the fire services.
Assessment Center
The oral review board is the next step in the testing process. Preparing for the oral board is often overlooked by many applicants and, in reality, is the first thing you should do in preparation for the firefighter recruit test. The best way to obtain the information is to visit one of our fire stations during normal business hours (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Ask any questions that will help you understand what being a firefighter is really like. In addition, ask the lieutenant on duty questions regarding what the department expects from its firefighters, the Fire Department organizational structure, wages, different assignments, etc.
Medical Examination & Background Check
The last phase of the entrance process is the medical examination and police background check. Each candidate who makes it to this phase will be given a thorough medical examination by a doctor specializing in occupational medicine. In addition, a thorough background check including a polygraph test will be conducted by an officer with the Las Cruces Police Department.
Opportunity
This might seem like a lot of work just so you can become a firefighter. However, this is a career opportunity that offers promotions, a competitive salary, a great deal of job satisfaction, and security. You don’t have to take our word for it; just ask any Las Cruces Firefighter.
