- 1). Being a firefighter is dangerous work, so make sure you can handle the pressure before investing yourself fully. Try being a volunteer firefighter or volunteer with a local emergency medical service to see if you are cut out for the fast-paced and high-stakes nature of a firefighting job. Having this community service on your resume will make you more attractive to employers if you decide to become a firefighter or if you decide on something else.
- 2). Get a degree in fire science and other related skills. At minimum, firefighters in New Jersey must be 18 years old (some towns require you to be 21) and have a high school diploma. In reality, thought, most of the people who become career firefighters have much more training than this. At the very least, go to one of the many training academies located throughout New Jersey to earn a fire science degree. New Jersey departments will favor firefighters with EMT training and other medical training, as well as those with foreign language skills. (Once hired, you need to undergo further training courses as well.)
- 3). Apply for jobs, and prepare for and pass physical and written examinations. Even well-qualified firefighters may not find jobs right away, so take the time to make yourself a better candidate. Work out and eat right to make sure you are in top physical form. Review what you've learned so you feel prepared for the written test, and don't become discouraged if you don't pass on the first or second try. While you are waiting, network. Make visits to individual firehouses to make connections in the field.
- 4). Stay current on your requirements. Even after you secure a job as a career firefighter, the state of New Jersey will require you to stay up to date with training and certification to stay on active duty.
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