FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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Do you have to have experience to apply for firefighter/EMT? No experience required, having a current EMS certification is highly recommended.
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How old do you have to be to apply? You must be 18 years old before the start of the academy.
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What about my driving record.....will that keep me from being considered? You must have a valid Virginia Drivers License upon being hired and you must have a good driving record.
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Do you do a background check? Yes....we do background checks on every candidate. You cannot have a felony on your record.
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How long is the academy? Do I get paid while in the academy? The academy lasts approximately 3-4 months, depending on your certifications, and is held Monday-Friday from approximately 7am-5pm at the Roanoke Valley Regional Fire-EMS Training Center. You will be paid while in the academy and all of your gear needed will be provided.
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I already have my EMT....do I need to complete the EMT portion during the academy? If you are an EMT or Paramedic, you will do a ride along during the EMT portion of the academy.
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Can I do a ride along before being hired? Right now, ride-alongs are not permitted. We will provide alternative opportunities for our potential applicants to get to know more about our department.
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What is the starting salary for a firefighter/EMT or firefighter/EMT-I/PM? See current job posting for latest salary information.
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What is the work schedule like? Roanoke Fire-EMS works 24 hour shifts, with 3 shifts (A,B,C). For an example of the schedule, click here.