Website National Testing Network
NORTH CHICAGO FIRE DEPARTMENT
1850 Lewis Avenue
North Chicago, Illinois 60064
847-596-8780
Position Title: Firefighter/Paramedic
Salary Information: $72,522 – $104,206 (end of 4-year contract)
The North Chicago Fire Department offers State of Illinois Basic Fire Operations Training for new hires.
Benefit Information:
24-hour shift followed by 48 hours off
2 paid personal days during the first year (cash-out option available)
13 Kelly days per year (1 day off every 10th shift)
Vacation accrual based on years of service
4 holidays per year
Paid sick leave accrues at 12 hours per month for 24-hour shift employees
Sick leave incentive program with cash payout for minimal usage
Longevity pay after 20 years of service ($2,500 annually)
Part-time employment allowed
Uniform allowance
Comprehensive health care plan (Blue Cross Blue Shield), free HMO BCBS for employees
Free dental, vision, and life insurance
Illinois downstate pension plan
Deferred compensation plans
City-paid Post Employment Health Plan (PEHP)
Visible tattoos permitted within policy guidelines (no head/face tattoos)
Department Overview:
The mission of the North Chicago Fire Department is to protect life and property while promoting public safety. The department is committed to providing prompt and professional emergency responses, emphasizing care and compassion. The North Chicago Fire Department aims to be a community-focused organization, dedicated to building a great work environment and inspiring its members to be lifelong learners.
City/County/Area Information:
Coverage Area: 8 square miles
Population: Approximately 32,574 residents
Annual Calls (2023): 3,071 (75% EMS, 25% fire/rescue calls)
Job Requirements:
Age: Must be 21 years old at the time of hire and under 35 unless exempt by State Statute
Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
Education: High School Diploma or GED
Driver’s License: Valid state driver’s license required
Language: Must read and speak English
Vision: Corrected to 20/20 and free of color blindness
Paramedic Certification: IDPH EMT-P certification required at the time of hire or national certification with the ability to test into the Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital System within six months of employment
CPAT Certification: Proof of successful completion, including ladder climb, from an approved agency within the last 12 months
Additional Requirements:
Residency within 40 air miles of the city (including Wisconsin) within 18 months of hire
Hiring Process:
Eligibility List Process:
FireTeam exam score
Proof of valid CPAT with ladder climb certificate
Oral interview with the North Chicago Fire & Police Commission
Preference Points:
Military: 5 points for at least one year of active duty with an honorable discharge or reserve duty
Paramedic Certification: 5 points for a valid State of Illinois Paramedic certificate
Experience: Up to 5 points for paid on-call experience with the North Chicago Fire Department or full-time experience with another department
Final Eligibility List: Posted after applying preference points.
Post-Offer Requirements: Candidates offered employment must pass:
Background investigation
Medical examination, including vision
Drug screening
The North Chicago Fire Department is committed to providing professional service and ensuring the safety of its community members.