Recruitment
The Final Eligibility List for entry-level firemedics was adopted by the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners on June 26, 2024. This eligibility list will expire on July 26, 2026. The Fire Department has no current vacancies.
Qualifications:
- Proof of legal authorization to work in the United States at date of hire.
- Must have passed 21st birthday and, except as otherwise provided by law, be under 35 years of age at date of examination. The maximum age does not apply to anyone who has previously been employed as a firefighter or who has turned 35 while serving as a member of the Military with honorable service under age 40.
- Valid driver’s license.
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Far vision correctable to 20/40, normal peripheral vision and able to distinguish colors.
- Valid CPAT and Ladder Climb Certifications within 6 months prior to test.
The Winnetka Fire Department does not require new hires to be paramedics. Employees who are not paramedics will be sent to the Ascension Saint Francis EMT-P Training Program.
Why work in Winnetka?
Winnetka is primarily a residential community located in north suburban Chicago (read more about the fire department here) and is described by many as a great place to work. The following is compensation and benefits information for firemedics:
- Firemedic salary range (2025): $88,116 - $120,300.
- Village-provided equipment, turnout gear, and uniforms; plus, annual uniform allowance, paramedic stipend, fitness stipend, and holiday pay.
- Excellent health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits.
- Paid vacation, holiday, FLSA, and sick leave.
- Firefighter pension plan.
- Shift personnel are represented by the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) Local 2077 collective bargaining agreement.
About the Position
New firemedics are assigned to 24-hour shifts after completing fire academy to support the mission of the fire department. The Department consists of 24 sworn firemedics and 5 civilian employees. Firemedic shifts consist of the following activities while on duty:
- Respond to calls for service – both emergency and non-emergency calls:
- Structural firefighting
- Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
- Special rescue
- Water response
- Hazardous material
- Daily training
- Fire prevention and education
- Prepare reports
- Care and maintenance of fire apparatus, equipment, and station
- Physical fitness training
Development opportunities for sworn firemedics include:
- Training and career development
- Multi-jurisdictional assignments
- Community relations
- Specialty assignments:
- Technical Rescue
- Hazmat
- Fire Investigations
- Water Rescue
- CPR Instructor
Training
New firemedics not already certified through an approved academy attend a mandatory 9-week training program at the Northeastern Illinois Public Safety Training Academy (NIPSTA) in Glenview. This academy provides recruits with the basic knowledge and skills needed to perform as an entry level professional firefighter.
Hiring Process
Candidates can expect the following in the recruitment process:
- Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)
- Orientation and written exam
- Fire Department oral interview
- Board of Fire and Police Commissioners (BFPC) oral interview
- Background investigation
- Polygraph
- Psychological Evaluation
- Pre-employment physical examination
- One-year probationary period (post-hire)
The BFPC is responsible for the appointment of firemedics.
