Firefighter

Position Overview

The City of Weslaco is hiring a Firefighter to support emergency response, non-emergency service delivery, fire prevention, and public fire-safety education. This role reports to higher-ranking officers and carries out duties according to departmental standard operating guidelines or as directed. Firefighters assigned to the Suppression Division follow a regular 48-hour shift schedule.

The position includes both routine station work and high-intensity emergency response. In addition to firefighting and rescue work, the employee will help maintain equipment and quarters, take part in training, and assist with medical and disaster-response activities. If the selected candidate is not already certified, they must attend a paramedic course, complete it successfully, and earn certification through the Texas Department of State Health Services.

Role Summary

Under direct supervision, the firefighter performs general fire suppression work, helps prevent fires, protects life and property, and handles emergency situations that may involve smoke, tight spaces, heat, and physically demanding conditions. The role also includes a substantial amount of station housekeeping, care of apparatus and equipment, and study of firefighting methods.

Minimum Consideration Criteria

Only candidates who hold a valid Texas Commission on Fire Protection certification and one of the following credentials will be considered: EMT-B, EMT-A, or EMT-P from the Texas Department of State Health Services.

Minimum Requirements

• You must be a U.S. citizen by birth or naturalization.
• You should be at least 18 years old and must not be 36 years of age or older.
• A high school diploma from an accredited school or an equivalency certificate is required, with transcripts submitted as proof.
• A valid Texas driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record is required.
• You must provide a birth certificate and Social Security card.
• Fluency in reading and writing English is required.
• Employment is subject to a pre-hire criminal background check and drug screening at the City’s expense.

Requirements Before Appointment

• You must hold, or be able to obtain, certification from the Texas Commission on Fire Protection.
• You must have an EMT Basic/Paramedic, EMT Intermediate, or Emergency Medical Technician certificate from the Texas Department of State Health Services or the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians.

Essential Duties

• Respond to emergency calls, fight fires, and provide BLS, ALS, or paramedic-level support as applicable.
• Operate fire hoses, apparatus, ladders, rescue tools, and related emergency equipment.
• Assist with hose deployment, hydrant hookup, water application, ventilation, and overhaul activities.
• Perform rescues in burning buildings, vehicles, and other hazardous environments.
• Give emergency first aid, use defibrillators and breathing equipment, and perform intubation and medication/IV support where authorized.
• Transport patients safely, assess their condition, and document care in line with paramedic policies and procedures.
• Complete reports, enter incident data into a computer, and prepare EMS documentation.
• Maintain fire stations, apparatus, grounds, and equipment through cleaning, inspection, and routine upkeep.
• Study district street layouts, building plans, and fire protection systems to improve response readiness.
• Operate ambulances, ground monitors, and other motorized fire apparatus.
• Take part in training, school and public education programs, disaster response, and equipment maintenance activities.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, other city employees, and the public while building strong working relationships.

Special Requirements

• Current CPR certification from the American Heart Association is required.
• Certification as an Emergency Medical Technician-Basic, Intermediate, or Paramedic from the Texas Department of State Health Services is required.
• You must meet the appointment standards under Chapter 143 of the Texas Local Government Code.
• A Texas Operator’s Class-B exempt driver’s license is required, or must be obtained within 1 year if not already held.
• TCFP Basic Fire Fighter Certification is required.

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Knowledge of modern firefighting apparatus, tools, and maintenance practices.
• Understanding of CPR, first aid, and emergency medical service techniques aligned to certification level.
• Familiarity with fire suppression, rescue procedures, and emergency response operations.
• Working knowledge of applicable state and local laws, codes, and department regulations.
• Ability to perform recordkeeping, prepare clear reports, and produce written business communication.
• Skill in operating emergency vehicles, communications tools, and specialized medical equipment.
• Ability to work under pressure, exercise sound judgment, and handle conflict or danger safely.
• Knowledge of fire prevention, building construction, fire protection systems, and incident management principles.
• Ability to work irregular schedules, including weekends, holidays, and extended hours when needed.
• Competence with basic computer applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and desktop publishing.
• Ability to read blueprints, interpret technical instructions, and apply departmental procedures accurately.
• Strong interpersonal skills for dealing tactfully with the public, officials, and community partners.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

This job requires the employee to be physically present and punctual for scheduled shifts. Duties may include fire suppression work, running, walking, crouching, crawling, climbing stairs and ladders, and operating in cramped or hazardous spaces.

The role may require moving equipment, patients, or deceased persons weighing up to 185 pounds or more, sometimes over short distances and with assistance. Employees may work in extreme heat, high humidity, changing weather, and immediately dangerous atmospheres while wearing protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus.

Completion of Probation

This position includes a probationary period and routine duties during that period may involve hands-on fire service work, station upkeep, and ongoing skill development under supervision.

Additional Notes

Applicants should expect to learn firefighting techniques, apparatus operation, and emergency medical service practices through classroom instruction and on-the-job training. The role may also include natural disaster response, public education participation, and field activities that require strength, endurance, and careful judgment.