FIREFIGHTER/EMT RECRUIT

Recruitment #2402-6401-002

Introduction

The Tucson Fire Department is seeking qualified and motivated candidates for the position of Firefighter Recruit. This position involves the training of a recruit to perform specialized fire suppression, fire prevention, emergency lifesaving, and rescue work with the Tucson Fire Department upon graduation from its 22-week training academy. 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 to cope with the physical demands and the mental and emotional stressors that accompany this occupation.

General Description

This classification is for new fire fighters who are in training to learn the skills and functions of firefighting under guidance of training staff.

Essential Functions

Under the guidance and tutelage of the fire training staff while in the fire training academy, the Recruit learns and demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to respond effectively to emergencies including, fire suppression, emergency medical response, and hazardous materials incidents. The Recruit learns fire behavior concepts and fire suppression techniques including the utilization and maintenance of various firefighting tools. The Recruit also learns and demonstrates the knowledge and skills needed to perform rescue operations and providing emergency medical care to the sick and injured in a pre-hospital setting. The trainee will also participate in a physical training program in preparation to meet the fitness level firefighting requires.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or GED.

 *Any combination of relevant education and experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis.

Special Job Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age and have a HS Diploma or GED by 07/01/2024 (final offer date).

Valid and unrestricted Class D driver's license. 

Two (2) years licensed driving experience by December 2024. 

Ability to obtain an Arizona EMT certification upon graduation; Tucson Fire will NOT entertain any waivers.

By end of the Fire Academy, Recruits will have received: 
  • Arizona Fire Fighter I and II Certification 
  • Cardio-pulmonary Resuscitation Certification 
  • Arizona Emergency Medical Technician Basic Certification 
  • HazMat First Responder Certification

Selection Plan

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

The Tucson Fire Department has contracted with Public Safety Answers for the 2024-2 Firefighter entry-level written test and pre-hire Interview. Please be sure to complete your registration and testing at link listed. 

Final Interviews: Date: Beginning the week of May 13, 2024 
Location: Public Safety Academy, 10001 S. Wilmot Road, Tucson, AZ 85756
The start date for TFD Firefighter Recruit class 24-2 is July 15, 2024.

Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) This is a pass/fail component. There will be several sessions offered to complete CPAT. 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 not move forward in the process and will not receive further consideration.

For More CPAT information you may click on the link below or copy and paste the information into your browser.

Participation in at least one CPAT orientation and at least one timed practice session is considered mandatory. However, if a candidate elects to opt-out of the orientation and both timed practices, a waiver acknowledging that the candidate was offered but declined to participate in an orientation and 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 (2) 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 (3) opportunities to pass the CPAT portion of the fire fighter testing process.

CPAT Orientations: March 17, 2024 & March 30, 2024
Location: Public Safety Academy, 10001 S. Wilmot Road, Tucson, AZ. 85756

CPAT Timed Practices: Session #1 April 8, 2024-April 13, 2024, Session #2 April 22, 2024-April 27, 2024
Location: Public Safety Academy, 10001 S. Wilmot Road, Tucson, AZ. 85756

Final CPAT: May 10, 2024-May 12, 2024
Location: Public Safety Academy, 10001 S. Wilmot Road, Tucson, AZ. 85756

NOTE: CPAT dates are subject to minor changes based on the number of candidates testing.

Current CPAT cards that were earned on or after February 1, 2024, will be accepted. Applicants must email a copy to TucsonFire-CPAT@tucsonaz.gov no later than May 12, 2024.

Conclusion

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:

  • Background investigation, including local, state, and national criminal and fingerprint checks
  • 39-month motor vehicle driving history report
  • Pre-employment medical and psychological evaluations
  • Maintain physical minimum standards throughout the recruitment process

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 application or contact TucsonFIreJobs@tucsonaz.gov to make arrangements. Copies of DD214's must reflect characterization of honorable service.


Applicants requiring an accommodation in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act for any of the applicant evaluations must contact Jessica.Garcia11@tucsonaz.gov to make that request. Contact must be made at least 48 hours prior to the evaluation.


Communications throughout this process will be sent via email exclusively 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

Pre-employment Medical Testing Requirements

Basic Physical

Respirator Physical

Hep B Vaccine/Titer

Non-NIDA Drug Test 

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To ensure accurate payroll information for tax purposes, the successful candidate will need to provide their original Social Security Card or original letter from the Social Security Administration with their social security number prior to beginning work with the City of Tucson.

The City of Tucson hires lawful workers only - US citizens or nationals and non-citizens with valid work authorization - without discrimination. Federal immigration laws require all employers to verify both the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States. In its efforts to meet the law's requirements, the City of Tucson participates in the E-Verify program established by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA) to aid employers in verifying the eligibility of workers.

Retired City of Tucson employees receiving benefits from the Tucson Supplemental Retirement System who are considering reemployment with the City should be aware that pursuant to Section 22-37(g) of the Tucson City Code, retirement benefits shall be suspended during the period of reemployment with the City of Tucson unless you have been separated at least twelve consecutive months before returning to work AND you return to a non-permanent employment classification. Creditable service does not accrue during any reemployment period.