Hiring Process
Congratulations on wanting to become an Eastchester Firefighter. The following general steps should be followed to become a candidate for the Eastchester Fire District.
Step 1: Apply
Meet the following eligibility requirements:
| Requirement | At Time of Examination | At Time of Appointment |
|---|---|---|
| United States Citizenship | No | No |
| High School Diploma | No | Yes |
| Current New York State Drivers License | No | Yes |
| Minimum Age | None | 18 |
| Maximum Age | No | No |
| Westchester County Legal Residency | 30 Days Prior to the Examination Date | Yes |
| New York State Legal Residency | Yes | Yes |
Apply to take the Westchester County Department of Human Resources Civil Service Uniform Service Examination for Firefighters.
A recent exam was offered on February 11, 2023. Exams are offered on average every four years by the Westchester County Department of Human Resources.
Sign up to receive announced Westchester County Civil Service Exams.
To receive updates on Eastchester Fire District's FREE Entrance Firefighter Exam Preparation Course, SIGN UP HERE
Step 2: Take Written Exam
Take the written exam. The Westchester County Civil Service Firefighter exam does not require you to have any special knowledge of firefighting or the Fire Department. Subject areas include the ability to learn and apply information, basic arithmetic, reading comprehension, and situational judgment.
Once the exam is completed, you are considered to be a Firefighter Candidate and your name will be put on the Westchester County Civil Service list based on order of performance and other factors
The New York State Department of Civil Service offers a Firefighter Series Test Guide (PDF).
Step 3: Take Physical Exam
You must be nominated by a Westchester County Fire Department to attend the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT). Candidates are encouraged to read the Candidate Physical Ability Test: Orientation and Preparation Guide (PDF), and to view the Firefighter Physical Ability Test: Instruction Video (WMV).
Step 4: Complete Candidate Review
There are medical and physical agility standards that must be met in order to achieve a permanent appointment as a Firefighter. Please note candidates for employment as Firefighter will be called based on the list number and need, which can take up to multiple years.
Step 5: Graduate from the Fire Academy
Successfully complete a 17-week classroom and physical fitness program that includes fire service training through the Westchester County Department of Emergency Services.
Benefits & Salary
Eastchester Firefighters receive a competitive benefits package and salary:
- Medical coverage
- Promotional opportunities
- Flexible work schedules
- Overtime and holiday pay
- Paid vacation
- Pension
Firefighter Salary Guide
| Beginning Of | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Salary | $57,784.38 | $59,228.98 | $60,709.71 |
| 2nd Year | $66,714.69 | $68,382.55 | $70,092.12 |
| 3rd Year | $75,645.00 | $77,536.13 | $79,474.53 |
| 4th Year | $86,588.36 | $88,753.07 | $90,971.90 |
| 5th Year | $92,455.00 | $94,766.38 | $97,135.53 |
| 6th Year | $103,398.36 | $105,983.31 | $108,632.89 |
Firefighter Salary Guide for Promotional Opportunities
| Rank | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lieutenant | $116,322.71 | $119,230.77 | $122,211.53 |
| Captain 1st Year | $128,427.42 | $131,638.10 | $134,929.05 |
| Captain | $129,247.25 | $132,478.43 | $135,790.39 |
| Lieutenant Fire Prevention | $127,954.98 | $131,153.85 | $134,432.69 |
| Firefighter Fire Prevention | $106,500.29 | $109,162.79 | $111,891.85 |
**The District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers any qualified applicant with or without a reasonable accommodation.**