Before an offer of employment is made, a candidate must pass a pre-employment drug test and physical examination by a licensed physician. Any offers of employment are made at the direction of the Fire Chief. All new employees are given a first year employment guide which details training requirements which must be fulfilled to continue employment. Raises within a specific rank or pay grade are based upon an employee obtaining certain skill levels and annual and semiannual performance evaluations. Any merit pay increases are set on an annual basis by the City Council.
Employees can also qualify for certification pay and skill level pay.
Progression through the ranks is based on time in rank, advancement of certification, training and education, and competitive testing.