Minimum Qualifications for original appointment to the fire department are outlined by the City of Portland Civil Service ordinance.  Candidates are required to pass a written exam, backgound check and medical exam.

1.  Good Character. 

- Applicants must not have a disqualifying criminal conviction
- Applicants must be of good moral character

2. Education and Experience.

- Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalency degree and either
   - Three years post high school employment; or
   - Three years of education in a post high school program at a school or college or university; or
   - Any combination of post high school education and work experience totaling three years.
   - Any applicants wishing to be considered for the position of Firefighter/Paramedic must be certified as a
     paramedic and licensable in the State of Maine prior to appointment.

3. Motor Vehicle Drivers License.

- Applicants must posses a valid State of Maine license and must not be disqualified from issuance of a State of    
  Maine drivers license.

4. Health

-Applicants shall be in good health and shall be subject to a fitness assessment and a post offer medical examination.

5. Citizenship

 - Applicants shall either be a citizen of the United States or provide proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

6. Emergency Medical Technician

- Applicants must be licensed state of Maine licensed EMT-B at the time of interview.  Intermediate or Paramedic license is desirable.

7. Firefighter I & II
 
- Candidates with State Firefighter I & II certification are desired.  

8. Candidates Physical Ability Testing

- Candidates will be required to pass the Physical Ability Test (PAT)