Become a Firefighter

Employment with the Ogden City Fire Department (OFD) is achieved through a rigorous testing and certification process. Testing is conducted annually, typically in the spring time and if needed in the fall. A list of candidates is compiled through the testing and used by the Fire Chief to fill open positions throughout the year. Interested candidates can fill out intent to test cards and as a testing opportunity becomes available, Human Resources will contact you to schedule your test.

Candidate Requirements


  • Must be 18 years of age.
  • Must be a high school graduate or possess a GED certificate.
  • Must have a valid driver's license and a good driving record.
  • Must have a Utah Emergency Medical Technician-Basic (EMT-B) Certification or above.
  • Must have the following fire related certifications that are issued by the Utah Fire Service Certification System or if issued by another state's system, bear the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) seal for:
    • Hazardous Materials First Responder - Awareness Level
    • Hazardous Materials First Responder - Operations Level
    • Firefighter 1
    • Firefighter 2

Initial Testing


The testing process for an entry-level Firefighter position involves:
  • A written test covering cognitive skills such as reading, writing, math, map reading, problem solving and interpersonal skills such as teamwork, loyalty, thoroughness, following orders, and respect.
    • Applicants may order the practice NFST Candidate Orientation Guide.  The NFST Candidate Orientation Guide is a helpful tool to prepare for the exam and can be downloaded as a PDF file and saved or printed. Please read through the disclaimer on the order page in order to have a successful download.  Payments will be submitted through PayPal via an account or credit/debit card.  Once payment is submitted, PayPal automatically redirects you back to the FPSI site where access to the download link will be located on the Order Details Checkout Status page.  Applicants must pay close attention to all instructions on both FPSI and PayPal's websites in order to access the instant download successfully.
  • An oral-interview board which rates applicants based on:
    • Previous field experience of EMT and Firefighting.
    • Skill application from Firefighting and/or EMT.
    • Advanced training in Firefighting and/or EMT.

Physical Ability Testing


The physical testing process includes:
  • Bench Press
  • Sit and Reach
  • Grip Stregth
  • Vertical Leap
  • METS Test
  • Push-Ups
  • Sit-Ups

Local Training Programs