Firefighter Trainee

City of Arlington; Arlington (TX); On-site; USD 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Arlington Fire Department is seeking a Firefighter Trainee. The role begins with a 12–16 week Fire Academy as part of a basic training school (BTS) covering firefighting tactics, equipment use, safety protocols, physical conditioning, and emergency scene procedures.

Trainees will also complete 12-16 weeks of Advanced Emergency Medical training, including patient assessment and essential medical response skills for emergency operations.

Qualifications

• Must have a high school diploma or GED.
• Pass a drug screen and background check.
• Read, write and speak English fluently.

Responsibilities

• Obtain and maintain Texas Basic Structural Firefighter Certificate within 16 weeks.
• Obtain and/or maintain Advanced EMT certification.
• Lift and carry 150 pounds and drag 75 feet for rescue simulation.
• Maintain activity in standing, kneeling and awkward positions.
• Maintain composure in highly stressful situations.
• Meet physical fitness requirements per Fire Department procedures.

Skills

English fluency

Reading & writing

Citizenship/work authorization

Moral character

Age requirement

Drug screen

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Department:

Fire

Job Details:

*****************IMPORTANT INFORMATION***************

Employment applications must be received by the application deadline to be eligible to participate in the aerobic run. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. CST on November 9, 2026.

Applicants must PASS the 1.5-mile aerobic run to be eligible to take the Civil Service written examination on December 7, 2026. The passing time for the 1.5-mile run is 13 minutes and 57 seconds.

Only applicants who pass the aerobic run will receive an invitation to participate in the Civil Service written examination on December 7, 2026.

The aerobic run will not be rescheduled.

Applicants who miss their scheduled appointment or arrive late will be disqualified from the hiring process.

SALARY

$21.82/hourly

JOB SUMMARY

Firefighter Trainees will attend a 12–16-week Fire Academy. This is part of a basic training school [BTS] consisting of foundational instruction in firefighting tactics, equipment use, safety protocols, physical conditioning, and emergency scene procedures. BTS will provide instruction in fire suppression, emergency medical response, rescue operations, and in the safe operation of firefighting equipment.

Firefighter Trainees will additionally receive 12-16 weeks of Advanced Emergency Medical training, consisting of instruction in patient assessment, basic life support, and essential medical response skills required for emergency operations.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Candidates must demonstrate the ability to follow instructions and retain information. They must demonstrate physical stamina, professionalism, and a strong commitment to public safety.

Applicants must be able to:

• Obtain and maintain the Texas Commission on Fire Protection Basic Structural Firefighter Certificate within 16 weeks of employment.
• Obtain and/or maintain an Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) certification through the Texas Department of State Health Services.
• Lift and carry 150 pounds and drag the weight for 75 feet to simulate a rescue scenario.
• Maintain physical activity for extended periods, including standing, kneeling, and working in awkward positions.
• Maintain composure in highly stressful situations.
• Meet physical fitness requirements established by Fire Department Administrative Procedures.

MINIMUM ELIGIBILTY REQUIREMENTS

1.Applicants must have obtained a high school diploma or General Equivalency Certificate.

2.Applicants must be a United States citizen or legally authorized to work in the United States.

1. Applicants must possess a valid Texas Class B Exempt driver’s license.

4.Applicants must be able to read, write and fluently speak English.

5.Applicants must be of good moral character.

6.Must be 18 to 45 years of age for Firefighter Trainee and/or 21 to 45 years of age for Fire Prevention Trainee.

7.Pass a drug screen and alcohol test, medical evaluation, psychological assessment, polygraph, and background investigation.

City of Arlington is an Equal Opportunity Employer.