Applications for Entry Firefighter is open. The following information is for applicants to help learn about the role and prepare their application. 

See the schedule below for information about steps in the recruitment and hiring process.

 

January 2026 to March 2026

7 weeks

Virtual Open House Information Sessions

• We are offering three (3) virtual open house opportunities to share information about the recruitment and hiring process presented by current firefighter EMT and firefighter paramedics, and department staff.
  • January 14, 2026, 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Pacific Time
  • January 29, 2026 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Pacific Time
  • February 9, 2026, 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Pacific Time
• We will share general information and applicants will have an opportunity to ask questions of the panelists.

Application Information 

• Application period for Entry Firefighter positions from January 5 to March 1, 2026.
• Applications require a National Testing Network FireTEAM test score and successful completion of the Candidate Physical Abilities Test (CPAT).
• Complete an official City of Hillsboro job application.

 

March 2026

2 weeks

• Application review. Applications are reviewed for completeness and verification that the minimum requirements of the position are met.

 

March 2026 - May 2026

6 to 8 weeks

Applicant Panel Interview Information Sessions: March 11 and March 12, 2026

• Applicants selected to move forward to the interview phase of this recruitment will have an opportunity to participate in a Panel Interview Information Session.
• These sessions will be presented by department members and staff to bring awareness to the panel interview process, share tips for how to prepare, and provide some practice opportunities.

Interview Panels

• Eligible candidates invited to a series of interview panels. Interviews may be one-way video, virtual or in-person.
• Panels comprise fire suppression, fire prevention, and administrative staff.

Chief’s Interviews 

• Finalist candidates advance to an in-person Chief’s interview panel. This is the third and final interview. 

 

May 2026

2 to 3 weeks

• Conditional offers of employment are made.
• Offers are contingent on successfully completing pre-employment screenings.

 

June 2026

2 weeks

• Formal offer of employment are made.
• Uniform and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) sizing for those candidates receiving conditional job offers. 
• Candidates begin onboarding and preparing for the firefighter training academy.

 

August 2026 to December 2026

• Recruit firefighters begin an intensive 16-week firefighter training academy.
• Following the academy, recruits transition to fire station assignments to continue field training and skills evaluations.
• Overall, recruits serve a 12-month probationary period.

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