Job Description

About This Position

Job Description:

Fire Lateral Cadet

Purpose

Under close supervision, this position participates in assigned training and formal academic programs of instruction designed for certification as a Firefighter in accordance with Chapter 143.023 of the Texas State Statutes.

Duties, Functions and Responsibilities:

Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.

• 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 ½ 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

Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:

• None.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.

• 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.

Minimum Qualifications:

• 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.

Licenses and Certifications Required:

• Valid Class C Driver License.

Physical Requirements:

• 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.

Notes to Candidate:

Notes to Candidate for Fire Lateral Cadet Job Posting:

For more information about becoming an Austin Firefighter, visit JoinAFD.com

Application submissions close promptly at 4:00 PM (CST) on September 23, 2026. The department reserves the right to extend the application submission deadline based on operational needs.

The application includes qualifying questions that may result in disqualification. Please answer all questions carefully and honestly. Applicants who do not meet minimum qualifications will be notified via email after submission.

Salary: $31.74 per hour

Veteran Preference Points

Eligible applicants may receive veteran preference points by submitting a DD214 showing an honorable discharge and at least 180 consecutive days of active-duty service by October 15, 2026.

Written Exam / ACC Testing:

All eligible applicants must complete an online Written Exam. Failure to participate will result in disqualification.

Test Dates: Week of October 12 - 14, 2026.

1.5-Mile Run (Pass/Fail):

Candidates must complete a 1.5-mile run within 12 minutes. Failure to participate and meet this requirement will result in disqualification.

Test Dates: November 20 - 22, 2026.

Eligible applicants will receive instructions for testing and DD214 submission following the posting period.

Applicants advancing in the process must submit additional documentation including completion of the PHI form and supporting documents (e.g., birth certificate, Social Security card, driver’s license, driving record, high school diploma, and credit report). Instructions and deadlines will be communicated later.

This position will require a criminal background investigation. This investigation is based on the Texas Penal Code (out-of-state criminal arrests or convictions are based upon the Texas equivalency).

Candidates must not be in default or delinquent on student loan payments.

Out-of-State Certifications – Reciprocity Requirement

Candidates must obtain Texas reciprocity for EMT and Firefighter certification prior to the academy start date.

All information provided is subject to verification. False or incomplete information may result in disqualification.

JOIN THE CITY OF AUSTIN TEAM

At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer—we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. As we strive to fulfill our commitment as public servants, it is important that we ground our efforts in a set of guiding principles – Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity – that anchor our delivery of services that significantly impact the lives of Austinites. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee.

What Makes the City of Austin Special?

• Make a Difference: Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation.
• Value and Innovation: Work in an environment where employees are valued, and innovation thrives.
• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.
• Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.
• Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.
• Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.
• Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.
• Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments that foster collaboration and inspiration.

By joining us, you become part of a community that values its people and is committed to making Austin the most thriving and resilient city in the country.

EEO Statement for City of Austin:

The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk.

City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call (512) 974-3210 or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.