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1. Step 1: Online Application

Visit the City of Ventura's Employment Opportunities website and apply online. On this site, you'll find all current City of Ventura job openings and will find more information on if we're currently hiring Firefighter-Paramedic Trainees and Laterals 

2. Step 2: Application Selection

Applicants meeting the minimum requirements from the screening panel will be invited to an oral interview.

3. Step 3: Department Selection Interview

The first interview panel consists of three City employees who ask the candidate questions about their qualifications, experience, and desire to be a firefighter-paramedic in Ventura. There are also typically various scenario-based questions included. 

4. Step 4: Background Investigation

The background investigation includes employment, financial, education, and military record checks and interviews with family members, neighbors, past supervisors, coworkers, and friends. Applicants are evaluated on past behavior and the extent to which that behavior demonstrates positive traits that support candidacy for Firefighter-Paramedic.

Trying to hide past issues, no matter how small, or failing to provide required information, are two of the biggest reasons candidates will fail a background investigation.

5. Step 5: Chief's Interview

The applicant is invited to an interview with the Fire Chief.

6. Step 6: Medical Testing

The Medical Evaluation is thorough, and it is essential that all applicants be in excellent health with no medical conditions that would restrict the ability to safely perform the essential functions of the firefighter-paramedic job. Good physical condition is necessary, as training in the Academy is rigorous. Failure to be in excellent physical condition may delay or disrupt training and result in a dismissal from the Academy.  

7. Step 7: Fire Academy / Lateral Academy

Trainees selected for hire will enter a 20-week, paid, Fire Training Academy.

Laterals selected for hire will enter a 4-week, paid, Lateral Training Academy with the staff of the Ventura Fire Department.

Learn more about minimum qualifications, benefits, selection plan, and online applications on the City of Ventura hiring website.