Physical agility testing performed Oct. 18 will determine eligibility to fill two Bridgeport firefighter vacancies. The positions available are for firefighter/EMTs  or firefighter/paramedics.

 

"These positions are critical in providing continued health and safety to our residents, businesses and visitors to our city,” said James Smith, assistant city manager/director of human resources.

 

They are indeed positions for which individuals are held at a very high standard and which directly impact many lives on a daily basis, Smith said. 

 

The city performs the agility testing on a regular basis.

 

“We did it just three months ago, but we’ve gone through that list already,” Smith said, “so we have to do it again.”

 

The two department vacancies were left by Randy Scott and Phil Dye, both who recently retired after many years of service. Scott had advanced to the rank of captain. Both firefighter positions are full-time.

 

The hiring process is done through the Bridgeport Fire Civil Service Commission. That board will be accepting applications through Oct. 10.

 

In addition to passing the agility testing, candidates must be between 18 and 35 years of age as of the date application is made, must have a high school diploma or GED, must be a citizen of the U.S., must have a valid motor vehicle’s operator’s license, must successfully complete and pass various mandatory examinations, must possess Firefighter 1 & 2 certification, Haz-mat awareness certification, a current EMT license or higher, and emergency vehicle operations course or equivalent certification.

 

Within the first 12 months of employment, the applicant must obtain certifications in Principle of Extrication, Hazard Materials Operation and driver/pump operator. The starting annual salary is $32,698.83 for an EMT and $36,430.31 for a paramedic.  After successful completion of a six-month probationary period, the salary will increase five percent.

 

Full-time city employees are entitled to a very generous fringe benefit package, Smith said.

 

Download an application at www.bridgeportwv.com or pick one up at Bridgeport Municipal Building, 515 W. Main Street. Applications must be completed and returned by Oct. 10.

 

For more information, contact Smith at 304-842-8217 or jimsmith@bridgeportwv.com.