Hoffman Estates is a vibrant community located 30 miles northwest of Chicago, known for its strong sense of safety, quality education, and excellent public services. Incorporated in 1959, the village has grown steadily over the years, with a population of around 52,000 people spread across 21.3 square miles. Its convenient location offers easy access to major highways, rail lines, and O’Hare International Airport, making it an attractive place to live and work.

The Village is home to several large employers, including Sears Holdings, the Sears Centre Arena, Siemens Healthcare, and Cabela’s. It also boasts beautiful parks, open spaces, and three nearby forest preserves covering over 4,000 acres. This mix of urban convenience and natural beauty makes Hoffman Estates a great place for families and professionals alike.

The Department

Founded in 1959, the Hoffman Estates Fire Department is committed to providing top-tier fire protection and emergency medical services. With a team of 72 firefighter/paramedics, the department serves the community from four fire stations, responding to approximately 5,400 calls annually. The department is known for its professionalism, innovation, and dedication to public safety.

It was one of the first departments in Illinois to integrate paramedics into its operations and is a founding member of M.A.B.A.S., the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System. The department also offers specialized units such as hazardous materials response, technical rescue, and fire investigation.

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

Eligibility Requirements

To apply, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Be a U.S. citizen;
• Hold a valid Illinois driver’s license;
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• Have corrected vision of 20-20, with no color blindness;
• Have adequate hearing to perform firefighting duties;
• Be able to speak, read, and write English;
• Provide proof of an Illinois EMT-P license;
• Submit a CPAT and Ladder Climb card from a licensed agency dated between July 12, 2013, and July 12, 2014;
• Be between 21 and 35 years old, unless previously employed as a full-time firefighter in Illinois.

Firefighter Preference Points

Applicants may receive up to five preference points for veterans, educational background, and previous firefighting experience. Other categories do not count toward preference points.

Application Process

Applications are managed by Selection Works and cost $40. They will be available from May 7, 2014, to June 13, 2014. All documents must be submitted by 2:00 p.m. on June 13, 2014, or you will be ineligible for testing. The application includes instructions and required documents, which should be saved and completed using Adobe Reader.

Testing Process

The testing process includes a written exam and a situational judgment test, both held on Saturday, July 12, 2014, at Hoffman Estates High School. You must arrive by 9:00 a.m. for check-in. After passing the written exams, candidates will go through additional steps, including a polygraph, background check, oral interview, and physical evaluations.

Important Notice

The Hoffman Estates Fire Department currently has at least five (and possibly up to seven) positions available. If you're interested in joining this dedicated team, now is the time to apply.

Thanks, Dan.