Fire Engineer

City of Bastrop Tx; Bastrop (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

TMRS retirement plan

13 paid holidays

Job summary

The City of Bastrop is hiring a Fire Engineer (Driver) to operate and maintain fire apparatus, navigate under all conditions, and ensure readiness for every response. You will support fire suppression, EMS, rescue operations, and public safety training across a growing community.

Applicants must hold Texas firefighting and driver certifications, EMT-B, and a valid Class B license, with the ability to perform maintenance and act decisively in high-pressure situations.

Qualifications

• Possession of multiple Texas certifications for fire, EMS and driving required.
• Experience driving and operating fire apparatus under varied conditions.
• Ability to perform preventative maintenance and inspections on equipment.

Responsibilities

• Operate fire apparatus safely and efficiently while responding to incidents.
• Drive, navigate, and position apparatus during emergency operations.
• Support fire suppression, EMS, rescue, and prevention activities as assigned.

Skills

Firefighting experience

Driver/operator skills

Emergency response coordination

Education

Driver/Operator-Pumper TCFP Certification

Driver/Operator-Aerial TCFP Certification

EMT-B certification

Basic Fire certification (TCFP)

Texas Class B Driver’s License

Tools

Fire pumps equipment

Aerial and engine apparatus operation

Job description

• Perform fire suppression duties.

Join a Team Committed to Excellence in Emergency Response!!

Are you a skilled emergency services professional ready to take the next step in your firefighting career? The City of Bastrop Fire Department is seeking a dedicated Fire Engineer (Driver) who is committed to protecting lives, serving the community, ensuring the safe and effective operation of the department's emergency response apparatus, and supporting the success of their crew. This is an opportunity to combine advanced driving skills, technical expertise, and teamwork in a dynamic environment where every response matters.

Working under the direct supervision of a Shift Officer (Lieutenant or Captain), the Fire Engineer serves as the primary operator of fire apparatus, responsible for safely navigating emergency vehicles under all driving conditions, transporting personnel and equipment to and from emergency incidents, and ensuring the apparatus is fully operational and response-ready at all times. The Fire Engineer also operates fire suppression pumps and onboard equipment, performs preventative maintenance and inspections, and exercises sound judgment to position apparatus safely and effectively during emergency operations. This position requires exceptional vehicle operation skills, technical proficiency, and the ability to make critical decisions in high-pressure, rapidly changing situations.

As an integral member of the department, the Fire Engineer actively participates in fire suppression, emergency medical services, rescue operations, hazardous materials response, fire prevention activities, and other emergency and special assignments.

About The Department

The Bastrop Fire Department is a combination department proudly serving a rapidly growing community of over 10,000 residents within approximately nine square miles of the city limits. Operating out of a single fire station, the department responds to an average of 1,200 calls annually, delivering comprehensive emergency services including fire suppression, emergency medical response, and rescue operations. The department is also committed to proactive fire prevention and public education initiatives that enhance community safety and awareness. The current apparatus fleet includes a 100-foot Platform Quint and an Engine, supporting a wide range of emergency response capabilities.

Recruitment

The following timeline has been developed for the application/hiring process:

IMPORTANT DATES

• October 9, 2026 Application Process opens
• November 8, 2026 Application Process closes at 11:59 p.m.
• November 20, 2026 Written & Physical Exam
• Physical Ability Test following the written exam. Bring appropriate attire.
• November 20, 2026 Interviews in the afternoon after written/physical exam
• December 7 - 11, 2026 Orientation
• December 15, 2026 Start on Shift

Engineer Selection Process

The selection process begins with the application period. All applications will be reviewed at time of submission for completeness and minimum requirements. Selected candidates will be notified to take the written exam on the morning of November 20, 2026. Exams will be graded immediately following.

Candidates that pass the written exam will then take the physical ability test. Those with the top combined scores will be invited to the panel interview. begin the background process. Candidates who successfully pass the background process will be invited to a panel interview. Pending completion of the pre-employment background process, a conditional offer of employment will be extended to the top candidate.

Essential functions

Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed below; reasonable accommodations will be made as required. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Must have working knowledge of Department fire territories to include streets and hydrants.
• Drive/ respond to various types of emergency and non-emergency responses; operate fire apparatus equipment while on scenes. Perform rescue support operations.
• Perform fire suppression duties.
• Lay hose lines and connect hose lines; have working knowledge of hydraulics and water supplies.
• Enter burning buildings.
• Properly charge and monitor nozzles and direct water streams.
• Carry and operate fire extinguishers.
• Raise, climb, and lower ladders.
• Support forcible entry efforts into buildings when necessary.
• Operate and maintain the use of numerous types of vehicles, equipment, tools and apparatus.
• Ventilate buildings; assist in salvage and overhaul operations.
• Must be capable of grasping, lifting and operating any and all tools and equipment as required to be used in rescue and firefighting operations.

Medical Emergencies

• Respond to medical emergencies as the Driver of a first responder crew.
• Provide emergency medical care to the level of training, i.e. EMT-B (Basic), or EMT-P (Paramedic).
• Must be capable of grasping, lifting and operating any and all tools and equipment as required to be used in rescue and medical emergencies.
• Load patients onto backboard or stretcher and into ambulance; must be capable of grasping and lifting patients, backboards and stretchers and placing into the ambulance.

Maintenance

• Inspect, test, service and clean firefighting, rescue, apparatus, and fire hydrants after calls or as scheduled for daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, annual maintenance.
• Assist in the maintenance of clean and orderly conditions in the fire station and on its grounds.

Fire Prevention

• Assist in fire prevention education.
• Conduct company surveys and pre-fire planning.

Public Relations:

• May be requested to speak and facilitate demonstrations pertaining to all aspects of fire safety and fire prevention.

Safety

• Promote safety in all aspects of the Fire Department.
• Transport fire crews to a scene in a safe manner.
• The D/O shall ensure all riders are wearing a seat belt prior to moving the apparatus.
• The D/O shall maintain the apparatus and associated equipment in a ready/ safe manner.
• The D/O shall serve as the initial accountability officer upon arrival at an IDLH (Immediate Danger to Life or Health) type of scene.

Other Duties

• Promote and supervise safety in all aspects of the Fire Department.
• Serve in the capacity of Acting Lieutenant during the absence of the assigned shift Lieutenant.
• May perform administrative and/or supervisory duties and/or functions under the general direction of the Station Lieutenant and/or Station Captain.
• Properly complete all related documentation related to fire suppression and prevention if necessary.
• May serve as incident Commander utilizing (NIMS) National Incident Management System.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Station Lieutenant or Captain.
• Regular and consistent attendance for the assigned work hours is essential
• Assist with special projects as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Study Fire Department rules, Standard Operating Guidelines, general orders, and all documentation pertaining to the job; attend drills, schools and seminars pertaining to fire suppression, fire prevention, rescue and emergency medical services as directed.
• Stay as current as possible on current methods and techniques pertaining to the profession.
• All Fire personnel are expected to engage in and maintain the highest level of training offered. When training opportunities arise, you may be required to attend and obtain applicable certifications.
• May at times provide training for the career and volunteer departments.

Licenses And Certifications

• Class B exempt or higher Texas (non-CDL) Driver’s License and acceptable driving record to be maintained throughout employment
• Driver/Operator-pumper TCFP Certification
• Driver/Operator-Aerial TCFP Certification
• Possession of a current EMT-B certification from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).
• Possession of a current Basic Fire certification from the Texas Commission of Fire Protection (TCFP).
• Must maintain ALL above certifications from date of hire.

Knowledge Of

• Fire prevention, suppression, and education methods, practices and procedures for a variety of fire, hazardous materials response, emergency management systems and rescue operations.
• Safe work practices and procedures.
• Rules, regulations and operational procedures of the Fire Department related to modern firefighting and EMS activities.
• Proper utilization and maintenance requirements of fire apparatus, equipment, tools, devices and facilities.
• Local geography including the location of streets, hydrants, and the major fire hazards of the City.
• Modern office practices, procedures, methods and equipment.

Skills And Abilities

• Apply firefighting, Driver, and emergency medical services techniques and procedures as necessary.
• Demonstrate mechanical aptitude as required in the operation of firefighting, rescue and emergency medical services equipment.
• Retain presence of mind and be able to think and act quickly and effectively in emergency situations.
• Make sound decisions and direct operations at the scene of a fire, EMS call, or other emergency.
• Perform field calculations for the proper and effective operation of equipment at emergency scenes.
• Understand and follow oral and written directions promptly and accurately.
• Skill in effective oral and written communication.
• Skill in effectively leading, supervising, and delegating duties to assigned staff.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.
• Ability to effectively and safely drive, operate, and maintain the full range of apparatuses and equipment used by the Department.
• Ability to perform all job-related physical tasks not limited to but including station duties, emergency operations, and training.
• Be punctual and regular in attendance.

Environmental Factors And Conditions

• Work is performed in office and field environments.
• May be subject to exposure to extreme temperatures, extreme weather conditions, hazardous chemicals, toxic fumes, unstable buildings and structures, infectious diseases, body fluids, air and water borne pathogens.
• May be subject to wearing full protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus for extended periods of time.
• May be exposed to hostile, angry or emotional citizens, patients and business owners.

Physical Demands

(This work typically requires the following physical activities to be performed as part of essential job functions.)

• Balancing – maintain equilibrium to prevent falling while walking, standing, or crouching.
• Climbing – ascending, descending ladders, stairs, ramps, requires body agility.
• Crawling – moving about on hands, knees, or hands, feet.
• Crouching – bending body forward by bending leg, spine.
• Feeling – perceiving attributes of objects by touch with skin, fingertips.
• Grasping – applying pressure to object with fingers, palm.
• Handling – picking, holding, or working with whole hand.
• Hearing – receive detailed information, make discrimination in sound.
• Kneeling – bending legs at knee to come to rest at knees.Lifting – raising objects from lower to higher position, moving objects side to side, using upper extremities, back.
• Mental Acuity – ability to make rational decisions through sound logic, deductive reasoning.
• Pulling – use upper extremities to exert force, haul, or tug.
• Pushing – use upper extremities to press against objects with force, or thrust forward, downward, outward.
• Reaching – extending hands or arms in any direction.
• Repetitive Motion - substantial movements of wrist, hands, fingers.
• Standing – for sustained periods of time.
• Stooping – bending body downward, forward at waist, with full motion of lower extremities and back.
• Talking - expressing ideas by spoken word. Shouting to be heard above ambient noise.
• Visual Acuity 1 – prepare, analyze data, transcribing, computer terminal, extensive reading.
• Visual Acuity 2 – determine accuracy, neatness, observe facilities/structures.
• Visual Acuity 3 – operate motor vehicles/heavy equipment.
• Visual Acuity 4 – close acuity for inspection of small defects, machines, use measurement devices, or fabricate parts.
• Walking – on foot to accomplish tasks, long distances, or site to site.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions described herein.

The City of Bastrop is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer (EEO) and values diversity in its workforce. As an EEO employer, the City provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

• Employment is contingent on passing post-offer, pre-employment drug testing/physical, and criminal background investigation. **

In addition to a competitive salary, the City provides a generous Comprehensive Benefits package that includes a mandatory retirement plan through Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS) at a 7% employee deposit rate with a municipal matching ratio of 2:1 at retirement, a voluntary 457 plan, as well as comprehensive medical coverage, Health Savings Account (HSA), life insurance, paid vacation, paid sick leave and 13 paid holidays. The City pays 100% of employee medical and dental insurance and contributes 50% to dependent coverage.