New Fitness Content Targets Novice Candidates
A video published February 21 explores the mindset for starting a demanding physical regimen from scratch, a theme relevant to aspiring firefighters. The content emphasizes that consistency and a willingness to learn are more important than being an expert from day one. It encourages candidates to focus on process over perfection when beginning PSSA1 or CPAT-style training.
- The Seattle Fire Department (SFD) cognitive exam is the FireTEAM test, administered by the National Testing Network (NTN), which takes about 2.5 hours and evaluates reading, math, mechanical reasoning, and human relations skills. Candidates can either take a new test or transfer a valid score from the last year. - After passing the FireTEAM test and the Public Safety Self-Assessment (PSSA1), the top 1,500 candidates are invited to an in-person oral board exam in the Seattle area. - For the 2025-2026 hiring cycle, the application window closes on November 25, 2025, with the NTN testing deadline on December 9, 2025. The hiring register will be established in March 2026, with the first recruit class starting in August 2026. - While the PSSA1 is part of the initial screening, SFD requires candidates to pass the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) later in the pre-employment process. SFD provides a paid CPAT voucher to the top 25% of candidates on the hiring register, and this test must be completed for each hiring cycle, regardless of any existing valid CPAT results. - The CPAT is a pass/fail test consisting of eight events that must be completed in 10 minutes and 20 seconds while wearing a 50-pound vest. The events include a stair climb, hose drag, equipment carry, and ladder raise. - Functional fitness training for the CPAT should include exercises that mimic fireground tasks like deadlifts, farmer's walks, sled pushes, and weighted step-ups to build job-specific strength and endurance. - A starting Firefighter Recruit with the Seattle Fire Department earns an hourly rate of $41.56. Financial planning resources for firefighters recommend establishing an emergency fund of 3-6 months of living expenses and supplementing pension plans with a 457(b) or IRA. - The SFD hiring process is extensive; after the initial tests, top candidates undergo a suitability assessment, background check, medical exam, and psychological evaluation before a final offer is made.
