Hoffman Estates is a vibrant community located 30 miles northwest of Chicago, known for its strong sense of safety and quality of life. Incorporated in 1959, the village has grown steadily over the years, with a population of approximately 52,000 today. It covers about 21.3 square miles and continues to expand, offering residents a mix of suburban comfort and urban accessibility.

The area boasts excellent schools, affordable housing, and easy access to major highways like the Jane Addams Memorial Tollway, as well as rail lines and O’Hare International Airport. Hoffman Estates is home to several major employers, including Sears Holdings, the Sears Centre Arena, Siemens Healthcare, and Cabela’s. The village also offers abundant green spaces, with three nearby forest preserves totaling over 4,000 acres of open land and trails.

The Department

The Hoffman Estates Fire Department has been serving the community since 1959, maintaining a strong reputation for excellence and innovation. With a team of 72 firefighter/paramedics, the department provides critical fire protection and emergency medical services across four stations. They are known for their specialized units in hazardous materials, technical rescue, dive operations, and public education. As a founding member of M.A.B.A.S., they have played a key role in regional emergency response systems.

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

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for a position, 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 normal hearing without correction;
• Be able to read, write, and speak English fluently;
• Provide proof of an EMT-P license from the Illinois Department of Public Health;
• Submit a valid CPAT and Ladder Climb card 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

Candidates may receive up to five preference points for veterans, educational background, and prior firefighting experience. Other categories do not qualify for points under state law.

Application Process

Applications are managed by Selection Works and cost $40. They will be available from May 7 to June 13, 2014. All documents must be submitted by 2:00 p.m. on June 13, or you will be disqualified. You can purchase the application online and complete it using Adobe Reader. Be sure to save the PDF to your computer for easy access.

Testing Schedule

The written exams will take place on Saturday, July 12, 2014, at Hoffman Estates High School. Arrive by 9:00 a.m. for check-in. The exam includes a cognitive test and a situational judgment assessment. A passing score of 70% is required for the cognitive portion.

Following the written tests, eligible candidates will move through additional steps, including a CPAT, polygraph, background check, oral interview, and medical evaluation. Successful applicants will then enter a 12-month probationary period before becoming permanent members of the department.

There are currently at least five (and possibly seven) openings available through this recruitment process.

Thanks Dan