Fort Worth,TX: How to Become a Firefighter

Firefighting is a challenging yet rewarding profession that involves protecting lives and property from fires and other emergencies. However, before joining the profession, there are certain things that prospective firefighters should consider, such as physical fitness, mental preparedness, and willingness to work in high-pressure situations. On the positive side, joining the firefighting profession can provide a sense of purpose, camaraderie, and the satisfaction of serving one’s community.

Featured Programs and Schools


The department currently employs more than 900 employees and is constantly on the lookout for more firefighters. If you want to become part of one of the most respected and efficient departments in America, then you might want to read this guide to learn how to become a firefighter in Fort Worth.

Requirements to Become a Firefighter in Fort Worth

Before applying for the position, you need to ensure that you have met the following requirements:

  • Residency Requirements: Should be a U.S citizen
  • Age Requirements: Should be between 18-35 years of age
  • Education Requirements: GED or a High School Diploma
  • Driving License Requirements: Current and valid driver’s license
  • Screening Requirements: No felony convictions. Any past charges or convictions can damage the applicant’s chances of getting hired
  • Physical/Mental health requirements: Should not have any physical or mental disabilities

Skills Required

Firefighters are required to have the following skills and abilities:

  • Good reasoning and problem solving skills
  • Effective communication skills
  • Flexibility and adaptability
  • Ability to follow instruction and lead a team
  • Good decision making skills
  • Ability to work under pressure – should have strong nerves

How Long Does It Take to Become a Firefighter in Fort Worth?

There are several stages involved in the hiring process, and it may take several months to complete the recruitment cycle. After applying for the position, the candidates are required to take a written civil service exam. Those who clear the exam, have to undergo physical ability assessments, polygraph test, criminal background investigations, medical checks and an interview process. If the applicant manages to impress the interviewers, and is able to clear all the tests and screening checks, he/she is hired as a firefighter. After receiving the offer, the new recruits are sent to the academy where they receive instructions and training related to firefighting practices.

What Compensation Do Firefighters in Fort Worth receive?

Fire Trainees in Fort Worth are able to earn up to $39,915 annually while in training and up to $53,477 annually upon graduation. Thus, firefighters earn a good amount of money after graduation.
The firefighting profession can be one of the most satisfying and rewarding professions. If you have made up your mind to enter this field, then apply right away!

Firefighter Schools in Fort Worth

For those interested in becoming a firefighter in Fort Worth, TX, there are several programs and schools available that offer training and education to prepare for the profession. Below is the information on some of the featured programs and schools, their course offerings, and physical training requirements:

Program/SchoolCourse OfferingsPhysical Training Requirements

 

Duration
Tarrant County CollegeFire Science Technology Associate Degree, Fire AcademyCandidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)2 years (Associate Degree)
Fort Worth Fire Department Training AcademyFirefighter Recruit Training, Continuing Education CoursesPhysical Fitness Assessment (PFA)24 weeks
North Texas Fire AcademyBasic Fire Academy, Continuing Education CoursesCPAT14 weeks
Texas A&M Engineering Extension ServiceBasic Fire Suppression, Advanced FirefightingPFA, CPATVaries

What Compensation Do Firefighters in Fort Worth Receive?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for firefighters in Texas was $53,310 in May 2021. This just about matches the national median annual salary of $ 55,290 for firefighters. In addition to base pay, firefighters in Fort Worth may also receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid vacation time.

Career Outlook of Firefighters in Fort Worth

The BLS projects that employment of firefighters in the U.S. will grow by 4% from 2021 to 2031, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. In Fort Worth specifically, the demand for firefighters may fluctuate depending on factors such as population growth, weather conditions, and the number of incidents requiring emergency response.

To advance in the firefighting profession, firefighters can pursue specialized training in areas such as hazardous materials handling, arson investigation, or leadership development. Alternatively, firefighters may choose to transition into related fields such as emergency management, occupational health and safety, or law enforcement.

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