FIREFIGHTER RECRUIT

The Tucson Fire Department is seeking qualified and motivated candidates for the position of Firefighter Recruit. This position involves specialized fire suppression, fire prevention, emergency lifesaving, and rescue work with the Tucson Fire Department. The duties require strenuous physical exertion under such emergency conditions as extreme heat, cramped surroundings and a contaminated environment.

Our hiring selection includes consideration of the following characteristics and attitudes:

Judgment

A Firefighter is expected to exercise exceptional judgment, sometimes in a split-second decision-making situation. Applicants who are indecisive or do not like making decisions might consider employment other than a Firefighter.

Attitude

A Firefighter is requested to take charge of many different situations. Individuals who are hesitant to do so may find it difficult to function effectively.

Preparation

A firefighting career can be very challenging. It is highly encouraged that one is physically fit in order to cope with the physical demands and the mental and emotional stressors that accompany this occupation.

Under the guidance and tutelage of a fire fighter while in the fire training academy, the Firefighter Recruit performs fire suppression and emergency response functions by securing the scene, identifying and containing hazardous materials, setting up and carrying equipment, removing obstacles, utilizing tools and equipment to extinguish fires, and rescuing occupants.

Performs facility, apparatus, equipment, and personal maintenance by performing daily station cleaning and grounds maintenance, conducting routine maintenance and inspection of emergency service equipment, and participating in health, wellness and physical conditioning programs.

Educates the community by assisting with conducting station tours, making presentations at schools, and answering inquiries regarding fire safety issues.

Performs fire prevention duties by conducting fire inspections, targeting hazards, and inspecting and testing hydrants and fire protection systems. 

Performs related duties by maintaining physical fitness and all required certifications, attending training classes, participating in drills, and complying with all procedures as outlined in department manuals and special assignment positions while in the academy.

• Minimum Education Level & Type: High School Diploma or G.E.D.
• Minimum Experience Qualifications: No experience required
• Valid and Unrestricted Class D - Driver's License

• Must be at least 18 years of age as of June 6, 2021
• Valid and unrestricted Class D drivers license with at least two (2) years licensed driving experience
• Ability to obtain an Arizona EMT certification upon graduation; Tucson Fire will not entertain any waivers.

By end of Fire Academy:

• Arizona Fire Fighter I and II Certification
• Cardio-pulmonary Resuscitation Certification
• Arizona Emergency Medical Technician Basic Certification
• HazMat First Responder Certification

**** You are highly encouraged to print this bulletin because it contains important information and dates that will not be available beyond the closing date of this recruitment. ****

Written Examination

Date: June 2021

Those applicants meeting the minimum qualifications will receive an email invitation on or about June 15, 2021.

All raw scores will be standardized within the candidate pool completing this evaluation and will account for 40% of the final score for those placed on the Employment List. Only the top 200 highest applicant scores including all ties at the 200th score will be invited to participate in the initial oral board interviews.

The Tucson Fire Department will be providing information to those being invited to take the written examination.  This entry-level firefighter exam will evaluate whether you possess the critical, and job-related, skills and abilities necessary for success on the job.  Qualified applicants will be given instructions on the process and next steps to follow to take the online entry-level firefighter test after the job posting closes. It is important to pay close attention to the email communication that is sent to you.

Oral Board Panel Interview

Date: July 2021

Those applicants who will be invited to the oral board panel interview will receive an email invitation on or about July 12, 2021.  All raw scores will be standardized within the candidate pool completing this evaluation and will account for 60% of the final score for those placed on the Employment List.

Upon completion of all evaluation processes, the highest scoring applicants will be placed on a ranked Civil Service Employment List. Those highest ranking applicants will be invited to participate in the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT). Those highest ranking candidates who are also successful in CPAT will be invited to a final interview. Candidates will be re-ranked based on their final interview score. Selection for the next Firefighter Recruit class will be based on this revised final ranking.

The anticipated start date for TFD Firefighter Recruit Class 22-1 is tentatively January 2022.

Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)

This is a Pass/Fail component for those candidates who are placed on the Civil Service Employment list. Each session offers one opportunity and there are no repeat attempts within that session. Candidates who are unsuccessful in achieving a passing score for CPAT will have their name permanently removed from the Employment List and will not receive further consideration. CPAT will be conducted incrementally based on your ranking on the list. Exact times and dates will be transmitted based on hiring needs as they become known. Current CPAT cards that were earned ON or AFTER February 1, 2021 will be accepted.

CPAT Orientation

Those highest ranking candidates on the Civil Service Eligibility List will be given the opportunity to attend a voluntary Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) Orientation at the Public Safety Academy. Tentative dates for the orientation are scheduled are yet to be determined.  Attendance is not mandatory but highly recommended. These orientations provide an overview of the CPAT requirements and testing process.  More information will be sent to those highest ranking candidates.

You may click on the below links for important CPAT information; use your browser's back button to return to this posting.

CPAT Orientation Guide

https://www.tucsonaz.gov/files/fire/training/cpat_orientatin_guide_2012.pdf

CPAT Orientation Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oS-YywTWZH0

CPAT Preparation Guide

https://www.tucsonaz.gov/files/fire/training/TFD_CAPT_Prep_Guide.pdf

CPAT Timed Practice Sessions and Final CPAT

Candidates who are placed on the Civil Service Employment List and are invited to participate in CPAT testing will be provided instructions on how to select a time slot to perform a full timed run through the complete CPAT course. Participation in at least one timed practice session is considered mandatory. However, if a candidate elects to opt-out of both timed practices, a waiver acknowledging that the candidate was offered but declined to participate in a timed practice session must be signed prior to participating in the final CPAT test. Candidates may participate once in each timed practice session for a total of two timed practices. If a candidate achieves a passing time in one of the timed practice sessions, this will count as an "official pass" and the candidate will not need to attend the final CPAT test. This format allows each candidate three opportunities to pass the CPAT portion of the firefighter testing process.  Current CPAT cards that were earned ON or AFTER February 1, 2021 will be accepted.

The civil service list will be utilized to fill vacancies occurring within the next 6 months. Candidates placed on the Employment List must successfully pass the following:  

• A background investigation, including local, state and national criminal and fingerprint checks  

• A 39-month Motor Vehicle Driving History Report 

• Pre-employment medical and psychological evaluations  

• Candidates must also continue to maintain all physical minimum standards through the duration of this recruitment process  

An applicant's ranking on the Employment List will be based on their final score which will be calculated as 40% of the rating for the Written Examination and 60% of the rating for the Oral Board Interview.

Veterans, Native American, or Disability preference points will be added to the achieved score for those that are placed on the Civil Service Employment List. If you qualify for Veteran or Native American preference points as outlined in your Employment Profile, you must submit your documentation at the time of the oral board interview. Copies of DD 214s must reflect a characterization of HONORABLE.

Applicants requiring an accommodation in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act for any of the applicant evaluations must contact the individuals listed below at least 48 hours prior to the particular evaluation.

Communications throughout this process will be sent via email exclusively so please ensure your browser accepts emails from tucsonfirejobs@tucsonaz.gov and check your email account regularly. Failure to respond or follow instructions will result in disqualification.

All email inquiries should be directed to TucsonFireJobs@tucsonaz.gov and the individuals listed below will respond:

JoAnn Acosta, Human Resources Manager

Cynthia Serrano, Human Resources Analyst

Dmitry Adamia Human Resources Technician

NFPA Physical

Respirator Physical

Hep B Vaccine/Titer

Non-NIDA Drug Test