The last test was given in 2006 and had 20% veteran and 10% CFD paramedic set-asides (LODD preference after 2013).
First class of that list was in 2008
They got to around #1,000 in 2009 when that list was frozen until 2013.
The last people hired off the 2006 list will be around #3,000 nine years later.
The 1995 list called #1,000 by 1999; #1,700 by 2003. But, there was only the 10% set aside for CPD medics back then. Veterans were given 5 points on the test if they needed it to get into the well qualified list - 89% or above (veterans who earned a score of 84-88 on the written test).
Around 50% of this list will be called through one of the preference lists.
If you have a high number (anything over #1,000) and want this job, get your Illinois paramedic license and get on the paramedic hiring list. This hiring list should open up in 2016 or 2017 and usually has under 1,000 people on it.
My best guess on the time line for someone not in one if the preference groups is:
As the list gets older more people are kicked off due to ageing out at 38 years old. And around 120 to 180 people will retire per year; so, expect the city to only hire around 150 per year if there isn't a hiring freeze.
If you have a low number; get into shape, get your Illinois or National Registry EMT license, and find a place in the city. If you don't have a low number, test elsewhere. If you went to a Religious HS and lived in the City, Local 2 is getting a lawsuit together because of the CPS HS preference.
Also, this dumb lottery is due to a loophole in the State law for hiring Cops and Firefighters. Madigan gave cities over 1,000,000 an exemption from the law. Everywhere else in the state the department must give a ranked test with bonus points for veterans.