Application and Selection Process
2008 Application and Selection Process Calendar
Click here to view all scheduled dates for 2008.
Written Exam
The first step in the Fire Department selection process is taking the written exam. The written test is held at the Tulsa Fire Department Training Center, 1760 Newblock Park. Doors will open at 8:00am. Testing will begin promptly at 9:00am. You should allow up to 4 hours for the exam. For additional information on the written exam or to put your name on the sign up list call the City Jobline at (918) 596-7444. Do not call and leave your name for a written test until the date/time provided by the 2008 schedule.
In order to take the written exam, applicants must arrive at the test site with a copy of their high school transcript, GED, or college transcript. Applicants must also have a picture I.D. Persons who do not have both a transcript and picture I.D. will not be allowed to take the written exam. Copies of diplomas are not an acceptable substitute for transcripts. Applicants should also bring two sharpened #2 pencils and a black ink pen.
Study Guide
A Study Guide is available for the written exam and may be obtained by clicking on the following link, Study Guide, or a copy may be picked up at Fire Department Headquarters at 411 S. Frankfort (click here for map to Headquarters) or the Tulsa City Employment Office which is located on the 1st floor of City Hall at 200 Civic Center.
Applicants also are required to have a signed application on file with the Testing Coordinator in order to qualify for the structured interview. Applications are available both online and in paper form. Paper applications are available from the Recruitment Officer who is located at Fire Headquarters (click here for map to Headquarters). If you complete the application online, the Testing Coordinator will bring a printed copy of your completed form to the written exam testing facility where you can sign it. Interested persons are considered applicants only upon the completion of the written exam and submission of an application.
Structured Interview
Upon successful completion of the written exam and the submission of a completed application, trained interviewers who are familiar with the essential skills and abilities of Tulsa firefighters will rate qualified applicants. A Candidate Preparation Guide is available for the structured interview and may be obtained by clicking on the following link, Interview Guide, or a copy may be picked up at Fire Department Headquarters at 411 S. Frankfort (click here for map to Headquarters).
The oral assessment is designed to assess the most critical job-related skills and abilities. Though some questions will require you to respond to hypothetical scenarios, you will not be rated on your knowledge of TFD policies or firefighting tactics.
Physical Abilities Test (PAT)
Candidates who successfully pass the structured interview will be scheduled for the PAT. The test consists of seven physical tasks that are representative of actions typically performed by firefighters. Each applicant must successfully complete each event within a set time.
Typically, applicants are allowed to practice the PAT on the day they undergo their structured interview.
Background Interview and Background Check
Applicants who successfully complete the PAT and successfully complete a Background Investigation Questionnaire (BIQ) will be scheduled for a Background Interview. Candidates will be asked several questions by an interview team comprised of members of the Fire Department and/or the City of Tulsa Human Resources Department.
Following the interview a background investigation will be conducted on applicants to establish evidence of good moral character, community commitment, and a pattern of conduct acceptable to the Tulsa Fire Department. Remember to list on your BIQ all contacts you have had with law enforcement agencies and do not withhold any information. Don't let us discover an incident during our investigation.
Conditional Offer of Employment
Selection is made by the Tulsa Fire Department based on a comprehensive assessment of all candidates and available positions. After acceptance of the conditional offer, hiring is contingent upon candidates passing the medical examination by the City Physician, including a drug screening, and acceptance into the state firefighters pension system. Candidates must also pass a psychological assessment and may be required to demonstrate their ability to ascend to and descend from the top of a raised aerial ladder.