FIREFIGHTER-STERLING FIRE DEPARTMENT

Sterling Fire Department
212 3rd Avenue
Sterling, Illinois 61081
Phone: 815-632-6600

Job Classification: Firefighter
The Sterling Fire Department is establishing an eligibility list for the position of Firefighter. Candidates meeting the entry requirements who do not have Basic Firefighter Operations (BOFF) or EMT-B certification will be sponsored for paid training. Applicants must complete the Personal History Questionnaire (PHQ), Fire Team test, and Public Safety Self Assessment (PSSA).

Candidates with valid CPAT (Candidate Physical Ability Test) and ladder climb certifications will be contacted for further steps in the hiring process.

Required Documentation (submitted with PHQ):
High School diploma or GED
Certified birth certificate
College degree, if applicable
Military service record and DD214 (for veterans)
EMT-P or EMT-B certification, if applicable
Firefighter Basic or Advanced certification, if applicable
Valid driver's license (color copy of both sides)
Citizenship/naturalization papers, if applicable
Social Security card
Job Requirements
Age: At least 20 years old, eligible for appointment at 21. Must be under 35, unless exempted by statute.
Citizenship: U.S. citizen at the time of application.
Residency: No residency required prior to employment; however, residency within a 20-minute response time to the main station is required within 12 months of academy graduation.
Education: Minimum of a high school diploma or GED.
Physical Condition: Must pass a background check, physical, and psychological exam. Demonstrate physical agility and muscular coordination.
Vision: Correctable to 20/20 with normal color vision/depth perception.
Driver's License: Must possess a valid driver's license.
Criminal Record: No felony convictions or certain misdemeanors.
Language: Ability to read and speak English.
Department Overview
Established in 1872, the Sterling Fire Department operates across 82 square miles from two strategically located stations. The department supports the City of Sterling and responds to incidents in the Sterling Rural Fire District. Staff includes 18 career firefighters and additional support personnel. Firefighters are represented by IAFF Local 2301. In 2023, the department handled over 1,500 calls for service, working closely with EMS and regional fire departments through MABAS Division 30 for technical rescues. Plans are underway for a regional training facility in collaboration with Rock Falls Fire Department.

City Information:
Located along the Rock River, Sterling is a mid-sized community with a population of approximately 15,370, positioned near key transport routes like Interstate 88 and U.S. Highway 30. Sterling's proximity to major cities like Chicago, Rockford, the Quad Cities, and Peoria contributes to its thriving business climate while offering residents a blend of small-town living and access to larger metropolitan areas.

Salary and Benefits
Starting Salary: $58,647
Benefits:
Medical and dental insurance
Downstate Fire Pension
Life insurance
Sick and vacation time
Flexible spending account
Specialty pay
6% of base pay in lieu of holidays
Education incentives
Hiring Process
Application: Submit a completed Personal History Questionnaire (PHQ) and required documents through the National Testing Network (NTN).
Written Examination: Complete the FireTeam test and the Public Safety Self Assessment (PSSA) with an overall score of 70%.
Preliminary Eligibility Register: Candidates are ranked based on test scores.
Oral Interview: Candidates attend a structured interview with the Sterling Fire & Police Commission.
Final Eligibility Register: After the interview and application of preference points, the final eligibility list is posted.
Candidates notified of an opening will undergo a background check, polygraph, psychological exam, and medical exam including a drug screen. Employment is contingent upon passing these post-offer assessments.

Note: The eligibility list expires two years from posting, per the Fire & Police Commission's rules and regulations.
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary: $ 58,647.00 Per Year