Preparation will help to set you up for a successful process. Below are a number of tips and resources to help you prepare for the application process. Please note that these do not guarantee success.

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Preparing for the physical exam

The physical is often the most difficult part of the application process. Training months in advance of the exam is often needed. The University of Alberta (U of A) administers the physical exam for Strathcona County and provides a physical aptitude test in advance.

It is strongly recommended to train beyond the minimum requirements. Some applicants may choose to work with a personal trainer that specializes in firefighter preparation.

Remember that physical training doesn't end after recruitment. This is a physically demanding job that requires strength, stamina, and cardiovascular conditioning. You must make a lifelong commitment to a daily fitness regime and monitor your personal wellness.

Aptitude and medical knowledge testing

To prepare for the Aptitude test, candidates can opt to purchase the "Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test (FACT) Candidate Orientation Guide" from FPSI for $15 USD. Carefully follow all instructions on the FPSI website to get access to the PDF download upon successful payment.

We also recommend these study resources:

• FirefighterRecruitment.ca
• Complete test preparation

Panel interview

To ensure you are ready for the interview, recall situations from your work and life that will provide supportive examples to respond to the interview questions. We recommend setting up mock interviews with others and practicing your interview skills using the STAR format:

• Situation: Set the scene and describe the situation with relevant details
• Task: Outline the goal, intention, or requirement
• Action: Explain the steps taken and your contribution
• Result: Describe the outcome and what was achieved or learned

This method is a structured manner of responding to a behavioural based interview question by speaking to the specific situation, task, action, and result of the situation that you are describing. Using this format will help you provide a concise and clear response to the question.

Interview preparation tips (104.0 KB)

Frequently asked questions and answers

I am in junior high or high school. How can I prepare to become a firefighter/paramedic?

Look for post secondary schools that offer basic and advanced care paramedic programs. Check the prerequisites for these programs to make sure you are on the right path. Generally, courses to focus on in high school include biology or science, math, and English. Your application will be stronger if you volunteer in the community, get involved with team sports and activities, and commit to a healthy, active lifestyle.

Can I apply again if I wasn't successful in the last recruitment?

Yes, previous applicants are encouraged to apply if they were not successful in the past. Many people are hired on after multiple attempts. Going through the process again will help you be even more prepared. 

What is your harassment policy?

Strathcona County has several Human Resources policies that include respectful workplace practices, workplace violence prevention and an employee code of ethics.

Are there any costs to apply?

There is no cost to submit your online application, but there is a cost associated with physical testing. Candidates who are hired may submit this cost for reimbursement (receipt required). 

How many staff will be hired?

There will be between 8-10 positions available. The number of positions may change by the time offers to the successful candidates are made.

Do new paramedics only work on the ambulances?

No. Firefighter/Paramedics are assigned to fire apparatus or the ambulance on a rotating basis.

Is this a regional recruitment?

No, this recruitment is exclusively for Strathcona County Emergency Services.

Do you offer wage matching?

Strathcona County has a salary matching plan where new hires who are members in good standing with another IAFF local can carry over their current classification to Strathcona County with regards to salary only (up to the level of 1st class firefighter rate).

The County is willing to discuss wage adjustments (up to a 1st class firefighter rate) for applicants with similar fire/EMS or EMS experience in an organization that serves the public.

Can I apply if I am a paramedic outside of Alberta?

You must be registered in Alberta and meet the full registration requirements to apply. Visit the Alberta College of Paramedics to learn about how to register in Alberta. It is a straightforward process and may only take a couple months to complete. Check out their checklist for requirements.

Ontario applicants: applicants who received education in Ontario will be required to successfully complete the COPR exams OR provide validation of employment within the Base Hospital system. Visit the Canadian Organization of Paramedic Regulators (COPR) website to see a list of exam dates.