Sioux Falls Fire Rescue Firefighter Hiring

Step 1.Submit an application

Eligibility and Minimum Qualifications:

• Firefighters must annually pass the Individual Physical Ability Test (IPAT). Graduation from high school or GED certification, or any such combination of education, experience, and training, may be acceptable to the hiring authority.
• Must possess or be able to obtain, prior to hire, a valid driver's license.
• Applicants must be at least 21 years of age at the time of the entrance civil service examination and no greater than 44 years of age at the time of the entrance civil service examination.
• Vision must be correctable to at least 20/30 in each eye. 
• Must be a non-smoker.
• Applicants must pass all phases of the hiring process.
• Must possess or be able to obtain National Registry or South Dakota Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification within one year of hire.
• Include supporting documents such as a resume, cover letter, transcripts, degree, certifications, or DD214.

Step 2.Entrance Examination

Candidates who meet minimum qualifications will be invited to take part in a virtual entrance examination. This examination is scheduled for the week of June 1-5, 2026. Applicants will receive an email with further information and directions after the application window closes on May 14.

The examination must be taken when it is scheduled; there will be no exceptions. Applicants will take this examination from their personal device. Human Resources will be in contact with more information leading up to this date, after the application window closes. Candidates must pass the entrance examination to be considered for the next process.

To learn more about the entrance exam, visit our FAQ page.

Step 3.Interview

Candidates with top scores from the entrance examination will be invited to an oral interview. Non-local candidates may complete this process virtually, if desired. This process typically takes place during the months of June and July. Candidates must pass the interview to be considered for the next process.

Step 4.Conditional Employment Offer

After the conclusion of the entrance examination and oral interview processes, candidates will be ranked based on scores from both processes. Conditional employment offers will be offered to top candidates based on the number of positions available. Candidates receiving conditional employment offers will then complete the hiring process below.

• Individual Physical Ability Test (more information below)
• Criminal background, credit history, driver history, and reference checks
• Psychological examination
• Medical examination, including a job function test, EKG stress test, physical exam, and a drug test

The above processes take place from July to October. Final employment offers will be extended to conditional offer candidates who successfully pass all hiring processes. New cadets will begin the 15-week cadet academy in early 2027.