Frequently Asked Questions

When is the next written examination?

Applicants will be assigned a specific test date/time by Human Resources staff when a completed application is received.

Current recruiting period testing information

Can I take the entrance examination more than once?

As long as you meet the basic requirements, you may take the entrance examination more than once.

Do I have to take a polygraph?

As part of its application process for the position of Firefighter/EMT, the City of Marietta does require a polygraph test.

Where can I find an application?

Complete the pre-application questionnaire to access the employment application.

Do you have to be a United States citizen to be a City of Marietta Firefighter?

Applicants for the position of Firefighter/EMT for the City of Marietta must be a citizen of the United States.

What are the age requirements?

Applicants for the position of Firefighter/EMT for the City of Marietta must be 18 years old when initiating the application process.

What level of education is required to be a firefighter?

Applicants for the position of Firefighter/EMT for the City of Marietta must have a high school diploma or GED certificate.

Do I get any extra points for a college degree or college credits?

A college degree is not required to apply for the position of Firefighter/EMT for the City of Marietta; however, college course work in fire science, fire technology or public administration can improve your performance on the written test and in the oral interview, and may serve you well in future promotional assessments.

Is a Fire Fighter I/II and NREMT certification required to apply?

While having GA Firefighter I or II and/or EMT certifications increases a Recruit's starting salary,the City of Marietta does not require either at the time of application.

If my NREMT certification status is inactive, can I still apply?

Yes.

Do I have to have a driver's license to be a Firefighter/EMT?

Yes, you must obtain and maintain a valid State of Georgia driver's license.

Can I transfer from another fire service to the Marietta Fire Department without having to take the test?

No. Like all departments, Marietta has specific methods of carrying out strategies and tactics. Even if a person has prior fire experience, he or she will need to learn these methods.

How long will it take from the time I apply to the time I will go on shift in the event that I make it through the entire process?

The recruiting/application period can last up to 3 months. MFD's Fire School lasts approximately 13 weeks and EMT school lasts about 10 weeks.

How many firefighters get hired by the Marietta Fire Department?

The City of Marietta traditionally opens the application period for Firefighter/EMT once a year. In the last decade, the average number hired annually has been approximately 10.

How can I get more information?

Does the City of Marietta provide medical support to its firefighters?

Several years ago, the Marietta Fire Department received a grant to increase its health and wellness program. A portion of the grant money was used to fund annual medical and physical examinations and semiannual fitness testing. The City of Marietta matched the funds and has continued this valuable program.

I've been reading a lot about the fitness requirements for the City of Marietta. Will I have time to work out once I go on shift?

Chief Gibbs is very serious about the city's Firefighters maintaining a high level of fitness. Part of the grant money the department received has gone to fitness equipment and each station has at least one cardiovasular machine and various types of strength and endurance training equipment. Firefighters coordinate with their company officer the time and location of the day's workout.

What is CrossFit?

A well-balanced Firefighter uses coordination and control when performing firefighting activities. As athletes have specific movements that they must train to perform, so must Firefighters if they wish to perform well and without injury. The City of Marietta Fire Department has adopted CrossFit (www.crossfit.com) as its main workout program.

CrossFit is not a specialized fitness program, but a deliberate attempt to optimize physical competence in each of ten recognized fitness domains: Cardio-respiratory Endurance, Stamina, Strength, Flexibility, Power, Speed, Coordination, Agility, Balance, and Accuracy (CrossFit Foundations, 2002).

What is the work schedule like?

The fire suppression staff reports for duty at 0800 and works a 24-hour on/48-hour off schedule. The administrative staff works 8-hour days in a 40-hour work week.

Do firefighters have to stay at the fire station when on duty?

Throughout their shift crews will test hydrants, hoses, do preplans and business inspections in their first-due territory. All activities originate from the crew's station, and crewmembers remain there until their shift is complete at 0800 hours.

What do Firefighters do for meals?

Firefighters are responsible for providing their own meals while on duty. All Marietta firestations have a kitchen with the usual appliances, so many crews plan meals together and pitch in money for group meals.

Can Firefighters sleep while on duty?

The men and women assigned to suppression have semi-private or private sleeping accommodations at their assigned station. Firefighters are responsible for providing and maintaining sleeping linens. There are strict rules that regulate where and when Firefighters may sleep.

Can I wash my station uniform at the station so that I don't take home unwanted contaminates?

All Marietta firestations have a washer and dryer for personnel to launder station uniforms and workout gear. Additionally, Firefighters have access to a commercial washer and dryer to decontaminate soiled bunker gear.