u/Land_Turtle

I work for FedFire and am thinking about joining the Reserves or NG. I just want to do something else than FFing. What do you guys do?

I'm contemplating going back to my original career FD of 7 years. I left as a Captain with high pay and good benes, great work-lifestyle balance, for a big city FD that paid way less and had to commute longer, etc. I couldn't afford to stay there so I jumped to DoD/FedFire and it's easy work, slower, but meh. Pride and ego aside, I was wondering if anyone has returned to their original FD and what it felt like? The union contract from the original FD would grant me back my seniority/pay within a year but not my rank.

For those working on the floor for DoD/DoW, is the FERS special retirement for FFs worth it? I'm currently an inspector and have been advised to work on the floor for 3 years to get that retirement. But I still don't understand what makes it special and if it's worth switching schedules.

I have a probie who struggles with comprehending what's said on the radio and things said on the fireground. Besides having them listen to their radio all shift and even radio traffic on Youtube or scanner apps, what are ways I can help this probie succeed?

Some background: English is their 3rd language, being already fluent in Spanish and French.. and they have a Masters degree so clearly not an idiot. They've been open and honest about not understanding radio transmissions and fireground commands so I'd like to help them out but don't really know how.

April 8 2025 - Expressed interest

April 11 2025 - Sent resume to department head

April 28 2025 - Panel interview

Nov 20 2025 - Phone call from department head offering different position

Nov 25 2025 - Sent updated resume

Feb 13 2026 - TJO

April 22 2026 - FJO

May 4 2026 - EOD

Looking back now, just be patient and try to forget about being in the process. It was nice to have a department head and HR representative that were actively communicating.