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.

**The City of Tucson values the safety of our employees, our residents, our community, and our visitors. In support of these values, if you are selected for this job, you must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, except when vaccination is not medically advised or violates your sincerely held religious beliefs. If you are invited to join our team, you must submit proof that you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to your initial HR representative, or you must request an exemption from your representative. New employees must either provide proof of vaccination or be granted a medical or religious exemption before working with the City of Tucson.**

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 
• Must have a current CPAT card that was earned ON or AFTER July 1, 2021. Applicants must email a copy to TucsonFire-CPAT@tucsonaz.gov. Deadline to email CPAT card is February 6, 2022.
• 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

Written examination will be held at a future date. 

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

Oral board panel interview will be held at a future date. 

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 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 civil service list will be utilized to fill vacancies occurring within the next 6 months after the list is final. 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, Lead Human Resources Analyst

Dmitry Adamia Human Resources Technician

NFPA Physical

Respirator Physical

Hep B Vaccine/Titer

Non-NIDA Drug Test