Firefighter or Non-Certified Firefighter (Fire Cadet EMT)

The Leander Fire Department is seeking individuals who are deeply committed to service possess unwavering dedication and demonstrate the highest level of professionalism. This career is demanding but for those ready to rise to the challenge it offers purpose camaraderie and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

If you believe you have the passion resilience and drive to serve we encourage you to apply and become part of our team. Wewill be accepting applications for certified and non-certified firefighters until June 12 2026 (at noon).

Non-Certified FirefightersFire Cadet EMT

• Possess a Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification or higher.
• Hold a National Registry EMT (NREMT) certification or higher.
• Have the ability to obtain one of the above certifications by September 25 2026.
• Are currently enrolled in a DSHS-approved EMT certification program and can obtain an NREMT certification by September 25 2026.

Non-certified firefighters hired by the Leander Fire Department will begin as Fire Cadets and must complete a 17-week fire academy.

During this training period Cadets will receive compensation at the Cadet/EMT rate as outlined in the departments pay scale. Upon successful completion of the academy and attainment of a Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) Basic Firefighter Certification Cadets who meet the requirements for the entry-level Firefighter position will be promoted to Firefighter (Step 1 on the pay step plan).

Certified Firefighters

Applicants who possess both a Texas Commission on Fire Protection Firefighter certification as well as a Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Emergency Medical Technician certification.

Certified firefighters hired by the Leander Fire Department will begin as Firefighters (Step 1 on the pay step plan) and will not be required to complete a fire academy. However all newly hired firefighters must successfully complete a probationary firefighter orientation to ensure they meet department standards and expectations.

Firefighters are responsible for mid-level complex work performing a variety of emergency operations to protect lives and property including firefighting rescue maintenance of stations grounds and equipment and inspection for fire prevention. The position has a moderate level of supervision with limited latitude for the use of independent judgment.

Non-Certified Fire Cadet EMT

• Participates in the Fire Academy and other structured training programs designed to prepare the cadet for state certification as a Firefighter.
• Outside of the fire academy the cadet will work / function under the supervision of the career staff.
• Supports the departmental operations with regular and timely attendance.
• Supports the relationship between the City of Leander and the public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with visitors and City staff.
• Maintains confidentiality of work-related issues and City information.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned.

• Possess a valid Texas drivers license at the date of hire. Must attain a Texas Class A (Non-CDL) Drivers License within six (6) months of going on shift.
• Currently possess a Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification or higher or National registry EMT (NREMT) certification or higher or the ability to obtain one by 9.25.2026.

OR

Enrolled in a DSHS approved Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification course AND the ability to obtain a NREMT certification by 9.25.2026.

• Achieve a minimum passing score of seventy percent (70%) on the written examination.
• Successfully complete the physical ability test.
• Pass a background investigation.
• Pass oral interviews.
• Pass the Fire Chiefs interview.
• Successfully complete a post-job offer psychological examination and medical examination that includes passing a visual acuity test and physician certification that the applicant is not dependent on and does not use illegal drugs.
• Be at least eighteen (18) years of age and not more than forty (40) years of age at the time of hire.
• Be a citizen of the United States by birth or naturalization.
• Be able to read write and speak the English language.
• Ability to obtain a class A drivers license.
• Be of good moral character.
• Be eligible to work within the United States.
• Successfully complete a TCFP approved fire academy and obtain a TCFP Basic Firefighter certification.
• Obtain or possess certifications required in this job description.
• Candidates selected for this position may be required in the future to complete paramedic training and obtain a paramedic certification as a condition of continued employment.

• Respond to all types of rescues fire suppression medical and non-medical emergency calls and implement action required to save lives and property.
• Participate in continuing study training and drill activity to achieve and maintain required skills to include regular fitness program to maintain good health and physical strength.
• Maintain fire equipment apparatus hydrants quarters and grounds to include performing motor tests on apparatus when assigned as a Fire Engineer.
• Prepare and maintain various departmental reports and forms and operate department computers.
• Perform rescue emergency medical care extinguishment containment overhaul salvage and exposure protection.
• Perform hazardous material containment practices.
• Ventilate burning buildings to carry off hazardous smoke and gases.
• Conduct public education and information classes to include performing public appearances and conducting fire station tours.
• Senior firefighters may supervise junior firefighters.
• May serve as Driver/Pump Operator in their absence.
• Perform other related work when required.

Required Education and Experience

• High school diploma or its equivalent.

Required Certificate and Licenses

• Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification or higher or the ability to obtain one by 9.25.2026.
• Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) Firefighter certification or the ability to obtain one by 9.25.2026.
• Valid Drivers License Class C or higher from any state in the US.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate degree (A.A.) or 60 hours of college credit.
• Texas Department of State Health Services Paramedic or Licensed Paramedic Certification.

Non-Certified Fire Cadet EMT

• Ability to get certified on the operation of department apparatus that does not require a Class B license within 30 days of promotion.
• Ability to follow detailed verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals.
• Ability to communicate with other employees and the public in a courteous and diplomatic manner.
• Skill in handling strenuous work under adverse conditions for a sustained period of time.
• Skill in using computers and related software applications.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with City employees the public elected officials and boards and commissions.

• Ability to get certified on the operation of department apparatus that does not require a Class B license within 30 days of employment.
• Knowledge of emergency rescue and basic evaluation procedures involving fire chemicals or threats knowledge of firefighting principles techniques and principles of hydraulics applied to fire suppression.
• Ability to follow detailed verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals.
• Ability to communicate with other employees and the general public in a courteous and diplomatic manner.
• Skill in handling strenuous work under adverse conditions for a sustained period of time.
• Skill in using computers and related software applications.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with City employees the public elected officials and boards and commissions.

While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to stand walk sit use hands to handle and feel items reach with hands and arms climb or balance stoop kneel talk and hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision distance vision and ability to adjust focus. The employee must be able to move 165 lbs. without assistance.

Working Environment
While performing the duties of this job the employee may be exposed to moving mechanical parts high precarious places fumes or airborne particles toxic or caustic chemicals outside weather conditions including temperature extremes and must be flexible to work both day and night shifts. Work is often performed in stressful and strenuous situations. Individuals are exposed to hearing alarms and hazards associated with fighting fires and rendering emergency medical assistance including smoke noxious odors fumes chemicals liquid chemicals solvents and oils risk of electrical shock and explosives. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate except in emergency situations. Uses protective personal equipment. May be exposed to blood-borne pathogens and other infectious materials in the course of their duties. This position is subject to call out.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities duties and skills required of personnel so classified in this position.

Job offer and continuation of employment with the City of Leander is contingent upon:

• Proof of education certification(s) and experience as listed on the employment application based on the job posting requirements.
• Satisfactory results from a pre-employment criminal history background and driving record check.
• Legal authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship. *
• Compliance with the Selective Service Registration for male US citizens and immigrants who are ages 18-25.

*The City of Leander participates in E-Verify! Information from each new employees Form I-9 will be provided to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and if necessary the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to confirm work authorization.

The City of Leander is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race color religion sex (including pregnancy gender identity and sexual orientation) national origin age (40 or older) disability or genetic information in employment.

Applicants should communicate requests for disability-related accommodations during the application process to our Human Resources Department at or . Deaf and hard of hearing applicants may contact our office via Relay Texas at 7-1-1 or(TTY/TDD).