FIREFIGHTER (PROBATIONARY)

EXAMINATION DATE: MAY 30, 2025

Job Summary

The Weslaco Civil Service Commission directs that an Entrance Examination be conducted for the purpose of establishing an eligibility list for hiring Entry-Level Firefighters. The eligibility list established by this examination shall remain in effect for a period of 12 months from the date it was created.

All communication will be done electronically to the email provided on the application. Before you submit review for correctness.

Essential Job Functions

• Maintain regular and prompt attendance; physically present to work.
• Performs after hours work as required (nights and weekends)
• Assist with emergency response as needed by city hall and local EOC.
• Produces written documents to document technical and legal matters.
• Responds to emergency incidents, fights fires and utilizes either basic life support (BLS) or advanced life support (ALS) and/or paramedic skills.
• Assists in advancing hose lines and making hydrant connections.
• Administers emergency first aid to injured persons.
• Operate hydraulic or pneumatic rescue equipment.
• Uses defibrillators, breathing apparatus and endotracheal intubation.
• Administer drugs and intravenous solutions.
• Uses common hand tools or overhaul a fire scene and perform routine fire apparatus maintenance duties.
• Performs searched and rescues inside burning building.
• Moves heavy objects (up to 185 pounds or more) including 5" fire hoses, EMS equipment, salvage equipment, smoke ejectors, trauma boxes and body boards for short distances (150 feet or less) with the assistance of an aid, in performing firefighting.
• Ventilates burning buildings by opening windows and holes in roofs and floors.
• Positions and climbs ladders to gain access to upper building levels.
• Works in small, cramped areas when rescuing trapped, endangered or injured people.
• Detects natural gas leaks, traffic sounds, sounds of impending building collapse alarms, sirens, calls for assistance and other audible signs of alarm or warning in emergency situations.
• Enters data into a personal computer to document incidents and reports.
• Relies on self-contained breathing apparatus for respiratory ventilation.
• Study street and apartment locations in assigned district; study building plans and fire prevention systems in buildings in assigned district.
• Prepares Emergency Medical Service reports regarding patient and incident information.
• Operates, inspect and perform other technical task related to the apparatus and equipment in the Fire Department.

Minimum Qualifications & Requirements

• Must have High School diploma, or equivalent (GED)
• Completion of the Fire Academy
• Applicant must pass pre-employment criminal background check and drug screen at City's expense.
• Applicant must have current valid Class "C" Driver's License and be insurable.
• Must have high school diploma; or equivalent.
• Must successfully complete Emergency Management and Incident Command Training within first three months of hire date.
• Bilingual English/Spanish Preferred.

Special Requirements

• Possession of certificate in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation from the American Heart Association (upon completion of Academy).
• Possession of certification as an Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic from the Texas Department of State Health Services (before completion of 12 months from hire date)
• Meet the requirements of Chapter 143, Texas Local Government Code for appointment (upon entry).
• Possess Texas Operator's Class-B exempt Driver's License (with 1 year).
• Possess TCFP Basic Fire Fighter Certification (upon completion of Academy).

Knowledge, Abilities and Skill

• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
• Operation, maintenance and uses of modern firefighting apparatus and equipment.
• First Aid procedures.
• Fire suppression.
• Local, state and federal laws and regulations.
• The geography of the City and surroundings area.
• Building construction techniques.
• Recordkeeping
• Business letter.
• Proficient oral and written communication
• Problem-solver
• Operate vehicles.
• National Incident Management System (NIMS)
• Leadership
• Customer service
• Computer literacy.

Working Conditions/Physical Demands

• Work involves frequent and recurring assignments requiring strenuous effort
• Lifting, moving and carrying, moving on bicycle over rough terrain or barriers, and potential need to subdue or restrain violent persons or animals.

Disclaimer

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so assigned to this position. This job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change as the needs and requirements of the job change.

Any applicant selected for employment with the City of Weslaco must receive satisfactory results from pre-employment drug testing, references, background checks, and credential verification. 

Salary : $34,999 - $35,000