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WNYresident
March 3rd, 2004, 02:09 AM
Greensboro Fire department (http://www.gfdnc.com/)

ABOUT GREENSBORO FIRE

We are a Nationally Accredited Agency by the Commission on Fire Accreditation International. The Insurance Services Office also rates the Department as Class I.

The organization employs approximately 406 men and women. The Emergency Services Division includes 18 fire stations housing 18 Engine Companies, 7 Quints, and 1 Rescue Squad.



SALARY

Current starting salaries for the Greensboro Fire Department (as of January 1, 2003) are as follows:

Fire fighter I $28,205

Fire fighter I with Associate Degree (2 yrs.) $29,615

Fire fighter I with BA / BS Degree (4 yrs.) $31,026



EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

Salary program, Paid Vacation, Holidays, and Sick Leave,Medical and Life insurance, Dental Assistance, Military Leave (if applicable), Credit Union, Retirement Program, Annuity Program, Educational Assistance. This list is not complete. For further information on employee benefits, please see the city’s website at www.greensboro-nc.gov.

Recruit training is an intense 20 week program that includes rigorous physical activity and demands high academic performance. Candidates work a demanding 40-hour workweek schedule (7:30 am. - 4:30 pm).

Physical training takes place every morning. Activities include, weight training, aerobic activities and periodic assessments on the physical abilities course. Candidates must successfully complete physical training. Failure to do so at any point during the training period will result in termination. Recruits are required to have a 70% average at the completion of the final exam. Failure to do so will result in termination.

Upon successful completion of the training program, recruits will be assigned to a fire company (4-5 personnel) within the Emergency Services Division and serve a six-month probationary period. The work schedule will consist of one day (24 hours) on duty followed by two days (48 hours) off duty. As a member of a fire company, one is responsible for a full range of activities including: fire suppression activities, rescue, community service programs, continuing education, station maintenance and hydrant testing. All entry-level personnel must serve in the Emergency Services Division before consideration will be made for opportunities in the areas of Training, Prevention, Investigations, etc.

After the six-month probationary period, the probationary firefighter will be recalled to the Training Section to demonstrate continued competency in the required areas. Tests will consist of a written exam, drill ground applications and physical fitness. Failure to successfully complete any of these areas will result in termination of employment.



TRAINING PROGRAM

Fighting fire, participating in medical calls and rescue work are physically demanding duties. Candidates must be in excellent health and have no conditions which would restrict their ability to safely perform these duties. These conditions must be met at the time of application and must be maintained throughout the application process. Along with the physical requirements, other requirements are as follows:

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum age: 19 (by the end of the application period - Dec. 31, 2003)

• Must have a valid driver’s license from state of residence, with a reasonable driving record and NO DWI convictions within 3 years of applying.

• Must have a high school diploma/G.E.D. Certificate.

Preference will be given to college course work from an accredited institution.

• Must pass a rigid physical examination and drug screen. (Far visual acuity shall be at least 20/30

binocular with contact lenses or spectacles. Far visual acuity uncorrected shall be at least 20/100

binocular for wearers of hard contact lenses or spectacles. Successful long-term soft lens wearers

shall not be subject to uncorrected criterion).

• Applicant’s record may not include: conviction of a felony or other crime involving moral

• Acceptable driving record

• College experience with a degree

• EMT-Basic Certification

• Physically ready to meet the final requirements of the Training Abilities Course at time of entry

• Some fire experience

You must furnish copies (in some cases, notarized copies) of:

• birth certificate

• driver’s license

• high school transcript or GED transcript indicating grades (notarized copy)

• college transcript, if applicable, indicating grades (notarized copy)

• college diploma (if applicable)

• military discharge (Form DD-214), if applicable

• DMV report from the state in which applicant currently resides. DMV report must be brought with applicant to physical abilities course.

Applications not complete with supporting documentation will be automatically rejected.

A check off sheet is provided at the beginning of the application on page 6 for your convenience.

Upon acceptance of an application, all qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the physical abilities course.

We will test applicants on a first come, first serve basis. Out of town applicants should make necessary arrangements to be on time. We do include a Saturday and a Sunday for the convenience of applicants traveling or those that cannot make arrangements due to job restraints.

2. COMPLETE PHYSICAL ABILITIES TEST

To meet the minimum requirements of the Greensboro Fire Department, all candidates need a combination of strength and endurance. The City and the Fire Department have determined that any individual can successfully compete for the position of Firefighter Recruit if their preparation is focused on these physical abilities necessary to perform firefighting duties.

Each task reasonably tests the physical abilities of an individual as they apply to performing basic fireground duties. The abilities course consists of 5 tasks performed consecutively, and include the following:

Hose load carry/Stair climb

Carry a 42-lb. hose load up the drill tower interior stairs (48.5 vertical feet).

Hose Hoist

Hoist a 39-lb. hose roll a distance of 51.5 vertical feet by pulling on a 1/2 inch

diameter rope.

Forcible Entry Simulator

Using a 9-lb. sledgehammer, strike the end of a steel beam and drive it 5 feet

horizontally on a skid.

Hose Advance

Pull a charged 13/4 inch diameter hose line a distance of 75 feet across pavement.

Victim Rescue

Drag a 150-lb. mannequin 100 feet horizontally.

Immediately following successful completion of the abilities test, you will need to schedule an acceptable time to take the written psychological test.

3. TAKE WRITTEN PSYCHOLOGICAL EXAMINATION

This examination consists of a battery of tests developed for the Greensboro Fire Department. You will need to report to the test site at least 15 minutes ahead of time. A picture I.D. is required in order to take the test.No exceptions! Applicants will be notified in writing of the results of the test. Applicants who successfully pass the written exam will then be scheduled for an oral interview. Notification generally takes about 2-3 weeks.

4. PARTICIPATE IN AN ORAL INTERVIEW

After reviewing the results of an applicant’s written psychological test and application, the applicant may be asked to participate in an in-depth oral interview with the Fire Training Staff. Second interviews may be required.

Background Investigation - Following the interview, selected candidates will then receive a thorough background investigation. Candidates will be notified in writing of their status following the Interview/Background investigation. Selected applicants will then be asked to complete a psychological and medical evaluation.

5. COMPLETE PSYCHOLOGICAL, MEDICAL AND DRUG SCREENING

You will be scheduled for an appointment with a psychologist for a psychological evaluation. Upon satisfactory completion of the psychological exam you will be offered employment and will be referred to Medical Services for a medical examination and drug test.

Upon successful clearance by Medical Services you will be able to attend the next available recruit class.

REQUIRED INFORMATION

Pg 7 Name (both printed and signed)

Pg 7 Personal Data

Pg 9 Age requirement

Pg 9 Authorization to live & work in the United States

Pg 13 Indication of registration with Selective Service

Pg 13 Type of Discharge if individual was in the service

Pg 14 3 references

Pg 14 Signature and Date Required

Pg 15 Investigation Authorization

Pg 16 Equal Employment Opportunity Questionnaire

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

copy of Birth Certificate

copy of Driver’s License

High School Transcript or GED Transcript (notarized copy)

College Transcript (notarized copy)

copy of College Diploma (if applicable)

Military Discharge - Form DD-214 (if applicable)

DMV Report from the state in which you currently reside (notarized copy) DUE NO LATER THAN ABILITIES COURSE TEST

A complete copy of this application (turn in both the original & copy)

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION AFTER EMPLOYMENT

Documentation that establishes proof of identity and authorization to work in the United States.



Please be sure that you complete all sections of the application COMPLETELY, ACCURATELY and LEGIBLY. This application will be used as a part of the overall application process and should represent your best effort.



THE CITY OF GREENSBORO AS A MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER THAT DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF RACE, COLOR, NATIONAL ORIGIN, GENDER, AGE, DISABILITY IN EMPLOYMENT OR PROVISION OF SERVICES. IN AN EFFORT TO MAINTAIN A SAFE AND HEALTHY WORKPLACE IN THE CITY OF GREENSBORO, APPLICANTS CONSIDERED FOR EMPLOYMENT ARE TESTED FOR DRUGS.

WNYresident
March 4th, 2004, 03:09 PM
I'm surprized there hasn't been a post on this topic.

Curmudgeon
March 4th, 2004, 04:10 PM
OK

The organization employs approximately 406 men and women. The Emergency Services Division includes 18 fire stations housing 18 Engine Companies, 7 Quints, and 1 Rescue Squad.

See how this department has QUINTS (little 2 man fire trucks). Remeber a few years ago when the firemens union had a fit when the idea of using these types of trucks was suggested? Seems to work for Greensboro...

citymouse
March 4th, 2004, 04:50 PM
The city backed of on the quints when they realized there were several bridges that they did not clear. Thats why they are no longer an issue.

Curmudgeon
March 4th, 2004, 06:15 PM
So the quints are taller than the trucks that they were going to replace?

WNYresident
March 4th, 2004, 06:57 PM
Does anyone know which quint firetruck that was in question? I did a search but there are so many!

WNYresident
March 4th, 2004, 07:01 PM
http://pub31.ezboard.com/fmonroecountyfirewirefrm11.showMessage?topicID=35. topic

WNYresident
March 4th, 2004, 07:09 PM
http://www.iaff1071.org/quint1.htm

These trucks don't look any taller than what you see zipping around buffalo.

I want to know which model buffalo said was either too tall for the bridges and I think i heard were too heavy for our streets?

therising
March 4th, 2004, 07:35 PM
OK, several things

1) first off, I do belive this is my 100th post. I will now be in the esteemed "Senior Member" category

2) Re the quints being too tall - you know that was BS, the unions just didnt like them (they are in Rochester, by the way)

3) What do Buffalo firefighters make? Without knowing that, the Greensboro salaries mean nothing.

4) More relevant issue is: How many firefighers per capita and per sq. mile are there in other similarly sized cities.



I really was hoping for a better post for #100, but this is all I got...

Night Owl
March 4th, 2004, 08:29 PM
I want to know which model buffalo said was either too tall for the bridges and I think i heard were too heavy for our streets?

I heard that the quints were too costly for the city of Buffalo and that the BFD was better off staying with the trucks we have now becuase they're still just as effective. I think the quints are heavier than a standard truck of that size because of the added amount of water they can hold. But still, I think it's the cost per truck that had the city saying no.

Night Owl
March 4th, 2004, 08:32 PM
1) first off, I do belive this is my 100th post. I will now be in the esteemed "Senior Member" category

Congratulations therising!!! :D

3) What do Buffalo firefighters make? Without knowing that, the Greensboro salaries mean nothing.

this is a very good point for your 100th post.

Night Owl
March 4th, 2004, 08:39 PM
Career as a Firefighter
A challenging and rewarding career awaits you as a member of the Buffalo Fire Department. Firefighters respond to the full range of assignments faced by a modern day urban fire department.

Salary:
$34,057 - $46,045
Uniform allowance
Holiday pay
Benefits:
Health Insurance
Vacation Pay
Sick Pay
Optical Insurance
Dental Insurance
Retirement Plans
Promotional Opportunities:
Fire Lieutenant
Fire Captain
Battalion Fire Chief
Division Fire Chief

Detailed information about the position of FireFighter including the requirements for appointment, subjects of written test, and physical agility test will be provided on the examination announcement
City of Buffalo is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THIS POSITION?

Acceptable Education:

Graduation from High School
GED
Equivalency Diploma at the time of appointment
Special Requirements:

Subject to approval of the US District Court, the following requirement and proof of same will be required at time of appointment:

Must possess an Emergency Medical Technician Certificate issued by the New York State Department of Health which must be maintained during employment
Age
There is no maximum age requirement for this examination. However, to be certified for appointment, candidates must have reached their 20th birthday. Candidates who are 19 years of age on or before the date of this examination will be eligible to participate in this examination.

License
Candidates must possess and present a current NYS Drivers License at time of appointment. License must be maintained during employment.

Residency
Candidates must be citizens of the United States and must have resided continuously in Erie County for at least 90 days immediately proceeding the final filing date for this examination.

Residents of the City of Buffalo will be given preference in appointment to the position of Firefighter.

FIREFIGHTER EXAMINATION
The test will consist of a Written Test and Physically Agility Test.

A detailed pretest booklet will be available to applicants before the Written Test. This booklet will contain information about test taking procedures and how to improve the abilities that will be tested in the examination. It will also contain information related to preparing for the Physical Agility Test. It will include information about calisthenics, warm-up procedures, lifestyle variables and methods for improving your performance level on abilities that will be assessed in the Physical Agility Test. Tutorial classes will be provided for the Written and Physical Agility Examinations.

Drug testing to be conducted at time of appointment.

Medical Examination
Candidates must be free from all mental and physical defects and deformities and diseases that would prevent them from performing the essential functions of a Firefighter.

Background investigation
Candidates are subject to an intensive background investigation before appointment; processing includes a $50.00 fee for fingerprints
Felony convictions are an automatic disqualification
No criminal or anti-social conduct
Polygraph examination; only candidates of sound moral character will be acceptable for appointment
Oral interview to be conducted at time of appointment by the Buffalo Fire Department

information found at Buffalo Fire Department (http://www.city-buffalo.com/document_122_11.html)

citymouse
March 4th, 2004, 09:03 PM
The union was not in favor of the quint midi fire truck, true.
But the city backed of because the trucks could not fit under the bridges on Parkside and on Colvin, which is right next to a fire house. There may ahve been some problems with bridges on William street as well as Clinton , South Division, Swan and Emslie.
It was kept very quiet, because the city was pushing so strongly to by the trucks they later found they couldn't use..


Actually, it was a good thing Union resistance delayed the purchase before it was to late and the city was stuck with those trucks.

Curmudgeon
March 4th, 2004, 09:14 PM
OK.

BFD starting salary $34,057
GFD starting salary $28,205

Buffalo starting salary is 20% higher than Greensboro.

That's in line with the oft-quoted statistic that states that NYS pays it's civil servants 25% more and has 25% more employees per capita than average.

IN BFLO'S DEFENSE!!
one department does not make a trend. this is ANECDOTAL EVIDENCE (something I can't stand). The plural of anecdote is not data...

So, we need more facts - this example by itself does not prove BFD is overpaid (or overstaffed).

...couldn't help but run the numbers anyway....

Night Owl
March 4th, 2004, 09:39 PM
So, we need more facts - this example by itself does not prove BFD is overpaid (or overstaffed).

I didn't know I was to look for facts to prove BFD is overpaid.

Going with what therising wrote: (What do Buffalo firefighters make?) I found the amounts of BFD's pay to compare with Greensboro's salaries.

takethepowerback
March 10th, 2004, 05:40 PM
Unfortunately, providing the data for salaries in other cities would really be an exercise in data collection and not a search for the facts. It is a well-documented fact that NYS and its municipalities are overpaying and overstaffing.

What Greensboro offers should be the norm. Buffalo is offering $34,000+ for a GED graduate. Come on. Let's right size this ship. ANd the argument that police and fire put their lives on the lines everyday doesn't hold water. Their professions aren't even in the top 10 in the country in terms of danger and deaths per 1000. It's the idea of danger that the unions use to their benefit. Do you see coal miners, lumberjacks and off-shore fisherman making $34,000+ with full benefits, retirement, and the vacation and personal day package, not to mention all the other frinhges such as clothing allowance, that fire and polcie do?!!!

So why should civil employees who work in a non-profit entity make that kind of money?

Here's a little known fact... the NYS Troopers last April got 33% raises from a starting salary of $39,000+ to over $52,000+ all under the radar because the union had no need to go public about contract negotiations because they were getting the keys to the state in this deal. What's the requirement? COMpletion of 60 hours of college, no degree required and the completion of the 26 week academy.

The unions, Taylor law and elected officials are killing this state.