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.
Applications are being accepted for both certified and non-certified firefighters until June 12, 2026 at noon.
Salary Steps: Non-Certified (Fire Cadet EMT): $65,695 / annually. Certified Firefighters (Step 1): $70,695 / annually.
Non-Certified Firefighters (Fire 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. 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).
- 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 works under the supervision of the career staff.
- Supports departmental operations with regular and timely attendance.
- Demonstrates 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.
Note: Upon obtaining a TCFP Basic Firefighter Certification, Cadets that meet the requirements of the Firefighter entry-level position will be promoted to Firefighter.
Certified Firefighters
Applicants must possess both a Texas Commission on Fire Protection Firefighter certification and 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) and will not be required to complete a fire academy. However, all newly hired firefighters must successfully complete a probationary firefighter orientation.
- 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, including a regular fitness program.
- Maintain fire equipment, apparatus, hydrants, quarters and grounds, performing motor tests on apparatus when assigned as a Fire Engineer.
- Prepare and maintain various departmental reports, 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, including public appearances and 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 Certificates and Licenses
- Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification or higher, or the ability to obtain one by September 25, 2026.
- Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) Firefighter certification, or the ability to obtain one by September 25, 2026.
- Valid driver’s license, Class C or higher from any U.S. state.
Preferred Qualifications
- Associate degree (A.A.) or 60 hours of college credit.
- Texas Department of State Health Services Paramedic or Licensed Paramedic Certification.
Additional Requirements for Fire Cadets
- Achieve a minimum passing score of 70% on the written examination.
- Successfully complete the physical ability test.
- Pass a background investigation.
- Pass oral interviews.
- Pass the Fire Chief’s interview.
- Successfully complete a post-job offer psychological examination and medical examination that includes a visual acuity test and physician certification that the applicant is not dependent on and does not use illegal drugs.
- Be at least 18 years of age and not more than 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 English.
- Ability to obtain a Class A driver’s 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 may be required in the future to complete paramedic training and obtain a paramedic certification as a condition of continued employment.
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 may need to work both day and night shifts. Work is often performed in stressful and strenuous situations. The employee must be able to stand, walk, sit, use hands, reach with arms, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, talk, and hear. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus. The employee must be able to move 165 lbs without assistance. The position is subject to call out.
