• A fireman on the job.tired day image by SKYDIVECOP from Fotolia.com
  
  Firefighters play an important role in any society, particularly in cities like Columbus, OH. They put their lives on the line every single day to help those in their community. Not everyone can be a firefighter as the job is both mentally and physically demanding. Certain criteria must be met by each candidate for the position.
  
  

The Application

• In order to apply for a job as a firefighter in Columbus, OH, you must be a US citizen, have a valid driver's license, be at least 17 1/2 years old, and have a high school diploma (or a G.E.D). Once you have filled out the application form, you will be notified by the Columbus Civil Service Commission when and where to take the required tests.
  
  

Written Exam

• The testing process is in two phases. Phase 1 is a written Civil Service exam done by the Columbus Municipal Civil Service Commission. Those who score high enough on the test will go onto the next phase. Phase 2 is a test to determine your physical capability for doing the job and an oral assessment.
  
  

Background Check and Personal Information

• Each job candidate must do the following: sign a waiver for a background check; submit a completed personal history questionnaire; submit a personal photo; take a polygraph test; be fingerprinted; participate in a pre-interview; and submit either their high school diploma or their G.E.D.
  
  

Interview

• An interview will be given by the Oral Interview Board. This board is made up of representatives from the fire department. Based on the outcome of the interview, the Board will recommend potential candidates to the Director of Public Safety. The Director will then select those who will be given "a conditional offer of employment."
  
  

Medical and Psychological Exams

• The medical and physical exams will include both vision tests and stress tests of the cardiovascular system. Potential employees will also be screened for drugs and must be free of any dependence and/or addiction to any controlled substances.
  
  

The Appointment

• Those candidates who make it through all the above steps will be eligible for appointment to the Columbus Fire Academy. Their names will be given to the Safety Director for his or her final approval. The Director will then select the final candidates for admission to the Academy for approximately 30 weeks of training. Those selected will receive their appointment by letter. All those who successfully complete the training program will become part of the Columbus Division of Fire for a probationary period of one year.
  
  

Residency Requirement

• Once appointed to the Columbus Fire Academy, any and all applicants must reside either in Franklin County or in any county that borders on Franklin County.