How to Become a Firefighter in El Paso

The El Paso Fire Department responds to more than 63,000 emergency calls each year involving fires, medical emergencies and hazardous materials situations. They also provide mutual aid to Fort Bliss Military Base. In addition to these tasks the El Paso Fire Department maintains specialized teams that are capable of responding to a variety of water, mountain and technical rescues. Other tasks include making regular fire code inspections of all businesses within the city and the investigation of suspicious fires. The El Paso Fire Department is always looking for good recruits to join the department.

Things You'll Need

• High School Diploma, G.E.D. or Certificate of Equivalency
• Proof of United States Citizenship or Proof of Legal Status to work in the US
• Texas Class “C” Driver’s License or better or equivalent
• Basic CPR card

Instructions

1. Contact the El Paso Fire Department by phone [phone]) or by email ([e-mail]) and request an official City of El Paso Application. Inquire about when the next open filing period is. Complete the application and apply in person during the next open filing period at 8600 Montana Ave., El Paso Texas, 79925. Ensure you meet all of the minimum requirements.

2. Arrange to take the written examination once it is determined by the city of El Paso that you have met all of the minimum qualifications. Arrive on time for the written examination at the time and place provided to you by the city of El Paso. The examination will include elements of Teamwork, Positive vs. Negative Influence on Station Internal Relations, Professional Responses in Difficult Situations, Situational Judgment, Positive Relations with Supervisors and Management and Professional Behavior and Bearing. Pass the written Examination.

3. Obtain your ranking on the written exam. If your ranking is high enough you will receive an invitation to participate in the Physical Agility Test. Participate in and pass the Candidate Physical Agility Test.

4. Receive an invitation to a preliminary screening of an Aerial Climb. Pass the preliminary screening.

5. Undergo a rigorous background investigation which will include investigation of your criminal record, employment history, credit references, community reputation and personal references. Satisfy all requirements of the background investigation.

6. Appear before a board of senior Fire Department officials. Successfully answer all questions designed to establish your suitability for service with the El Paso Fire Department.

7. Complete a physical examination to determine ability to perform all tasks required of a firefighter. Take and pass a drug screening test.

8. Obtain EMT-B certification with the Texas Department of State Health Services. Obtain a current Structural Firefighter certification from the Texas Commission on Fire Protection. Attend the El Paso Fire Department Training Academy. Graduates may join the El Paso Fire Department.

Tips & Warnings

• Firefighting is a hazardous job that can result in serious injury or death.

Resources

• El Paso Fire Department