The Fairmont Fire Department performs civil service examinations every three years. The hiring process consists of an application and various tests. Once applicants turn in their applications, a physical agility test is performed. Candidate successfully passing the physical agility test proceed to a written examination. The assessments are graded, and candidates are placed on a list. Once a candidate completes the interview, a psychological evaluation, a back ground check, drug screenings, and medical evaluations are performed. Hiring is performed from this list for three years or until the list is exhausted.

Candidates must be between the ages of 18 and 35 years old, have a valid WV driver’s license, and a High School Diploma or GED. Although prior residency is no longer required, upon appointment, the probationary firefighter must obtain residency within a 15 mile radius from the Marion County Court House.