Firefighter Candidate

About This Role

The Houston Fire Department is one of the largest municipal fire departments in the United States, serving a sprawling metro of 670+ square miles with over 100 fire stations. HFD is hiring Firefighter Candidates to respond to structural fires, medical emergencies, petrochemical incidents, and tropical weather events that define emergency services in the Gulf Coast region.

Job Overview

• Job Title: Firefighter Candidate
• Company: Houston Fire Department
• Location: Houston, TX (multiple station assignments)
• Job Type: Full-time
• Experience Level: Entry-level
• Salary Range: $18–$27/hr
• Posted Date: 2026-06-01
• Application Deadline: 2026-07-01

Role Context

Houston's industrial base — including refineries, chemical plants, and the Port of Houston — means HFD firefighters receive specialized haz-mat and industrial fire training that most municipal departments do not offer. The 26-week academy combines structural firefighting, EMS, and hazardous materials response into a comprehensive foundation for entry-level firefighters.

Key Responsibilities

• Respond to structural, vehicle, and industrial fire incidents across Houston's diverse geography
• Deliver pre-hospital emergency medical care; all HFD personnel are certified EMTs
• Perform haz-mat response operations near petrochemical and port facilities
• Execute flood and swift water rescue during tropical weather events
• Conduct high-angle and confined space rescue operations as needed
• Maintain readiness through station duties, equipment inspections, and ongoing training

Requirements & Skills

• Texas resident at time of application; U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
• High school diploma or GED required
• Valid Texas driver's license with a clean driving record
• Pass HFD written exam, CPAT, and an agility evaluation
• Clear background investigation and drug screening
• EMT certification preferred but not required before academy entry

Benefits & Work Conditions

• $18–$27/hr base pay with overtime and certification pay supplements
• Houston Municipal Employees Pension System (defined benefit)
• Health, dental, and vision insurance for employee and dependents
• 24-on/48-off shift schedule
• Uniform allowance and annual paid leave accrual

Who Should Apply

Motivated individuals ready for a physically and mentally demanding career in one of Texas's most active fire departments. HFD is a particularly good fit for candidates interested in industrial fire suppression and haz-mat response, skills with broad career value in the Houston energy corridor.

About the Company

Houston Fire Department serves the fourth-largest city in the United States. With over 4,000 personnel and 102 fire stations, HFD handles an extraordinarily wide range of emergencies — from neighborhood house fires to major industrial incidents at petrochemical facilities along the Ship Channel.

How to Apply

Apply through houstontx.gov/fire/recruit.html. Exam dates are announced on the HFD recruitment page. The process includes a written test, physical agility evaluation, CPAT, medical exam, psychological screening, and background investigation before academy placement.