Fire Lateral Cadet

Austin, Texas; Austin, Northern (TX, KY); Hybrid; USD 52,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive benefits

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Austin Fire Department is seeking qualified candidates to join its team as a full-time Firefighter/EMT. The role requires completing fire service training, maintaining certifications, and supporting operations in high‑pressure situations.

Candidates must meet physical and medical standards, possess a high school diploma or equivalent, and hold current Texas firefighter certifications. The position emphasizes teamwork, field readiness, and a commitment to public safety within Austin and Travis

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent required.
• Active firefighter certification by Texas authorities.
• Ability to meet physical agility and medical standards.

Responsibilities

• Attend and complete fire academy and EMS training.
• Maintain certifications and participate in ongoing drills and evolutions.
• Operate and maintain fire apparatus and equipment during responses.
• Provide emergency medical care and assist EMS personnel as needed.
• Communicate effectively in stressful and hazardous environments.
• Accurately document activities and prepare reports.

Skills

Emergency medical care

Fire suppression

Ladder operations

Rescue operations

Operat​e under stress

Records and reports

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Active Firefighter certification (Texas)

Tools

Fire apparatus operation

Hydraulics & pumps

Hand and power tools

Job description

* Attends and successfully completes Fire Department classes and other formal fire training programs to demonstrate proficiency and compliance with certification standards as a Firefighter and an Emergency Medical Technician (Basic).* Participates in mandatory physical training to include running 1 1/2 to 6 miles, uphill running, calisthenics, hose and dummy drags, grass drills, and weight training.* Participates in drills, demonstrations, firefighting training evolutions, and courses in hydraulics, pump operation and maintenance, and firefighting techniques.* Trains in the operation of rescue tools.* Trains in the administration of emergency medical care to fire or accident victims and assists EMS personnel as needed.* Trains in the locating, controlling, and extinguishing of fires using applicable extinguishing agents* Skill in operating and maintaining fire apparatus and equipment.* Skill in operating various hand and power tools to create openings in structures and vehicles for smoke ventilation, forcible entry, and rescue.* Skill in performing life support techniques and emergency medical care.* Skill in maintaining accurate records and preparing reports.* Ability to become knowledgeable of city geography, streets, and highways in Austin/Travis County.* Knowledge of firefighting principles and techniques, hydraulics, hydrants, and location/operation of sprinkler and house line systems.* Ability to become knowledgeable of departmental policy, practice, and procedure, emergency medical techniques, and good safety practice in the use of equipment.* Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with other city employees and the public.* Ability to communicate effectively in stressful and /or hazardous environments.* Ability to perform strenuous work under all weather conditions including emergency situations.* Ability to read, write, comprehend, and speak English.* Graduation from High School or equivalent* Must be at least 18 years of age, and not to exceed age 35, on the date of written exam* Meet the requirements of Local Government Code, Title 5 Chapter 143* Meet the requirements for certification by the Texas Commission on Fire Protection Standards and Education* Meet the requirements of the Texas Department of State Health Services for certification as an Emergency Medical Technician (Basic)* Meet the medical requirements outlined in NFPA 1580 (Latest Edition), Standard on Comprehensive Occupational Medical Program for Fire Departments.* Applicants must be current certified firefighters* Applicants must have been actively employed as a structural firefighter with one or more municipalities, Emergency Service Districts (ESDs), military, or count fire departments within the two (2) years immediately preceding the application date* Applicants must possess a minimum of three (3) years of total active service as a full-time paid firefighter with one or more municipalities, ESDs, military, or county fire departments* Must be able to quickly respond to fire apparatus and be capable of entry and/or exit of any AFD vehicle* Must be able to quickly respond to fire apparatus and be capable of entry and/or exit of any AFD vehicle without assistance.* Must be able to climb multiple flights of stairs while carrying firefighting equipment.* Must be able to climb aerial ladders to a height of 100 feet.* Must be able to carry and/or drag hose for the purpose of fire extinguishment.* Must be able to carry, set, and climb ladders to accomplish firefighting and rescue evolutions.* Must be able to crawl and kneel, wearing personal protective equipment and SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus), in extreme weather conditions, high environmental temperature and humidity, and confined, dark, or visually obscured environments.* Must be able to perform strenuous physical activity for 20 continuous minutes.* Must be able to perform CPR, lifting and moving of equipment and patients in a variety of environmental conditions.* Must be comfortable in the water using a personal flotation device.**Competitive Benefits**: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.**Career Growth**: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.**Competitive Benefits**: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.**Career Growth**: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.