Fire Department · Career
El Paso Fire Department
El Paso, TX · El Paso County
5th largest in Texas
The El Paso Fire Department traces its roots to a volunteer brigade formed on December 18, 1882, after a major fire, and became a fully paid professional department in 1909. Today it is the fifth largest fire department in Texas.
The department serves a population of over 680,000 across roughly 260 square miles and answers more than 100,000 calls a year. It holds an ISO Class 1 rating and accreditation from the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI).
Beyond fire suppression and EMS, El Paso operates specialized divisions including Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting, Special Operations (technical rescue, hazardous materials, and water rescue), Community Risk Reduction, and a Fire Marshal's Office. Its fleet has been recognized among the nation's top 100 for five consecutive years.
MissionReady to serve, committed to excellence.
El Paso hires through three entry pathways: Firefighter Trainee, Certified Firefighter Trainee, and Certified Paramedic-Fire Trainee. All applications are handled through the City of El Paso careers portal at governmentjobs.com/careers/elpaso, where candidates create an account, apply, and can complete a job-interest form to be notified when the next process opens.
The selection process includes a written examination and the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT), followed by the Firefighter Trainee Academy. The department provides preparation resources such as written-exam practice tests, a CPAT training guide, and a pre-academy fitness plan, and is open to certified EMT or firefighter transfers.
Hiring process
- Create an online account at governmentjobs.com/careers/elpaso
- Complete and submit the application
- Pass the written examination
- Complete the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)
- Attend the Firefighter Trainee Academy
New hires attend the Firefighter Trainee Academy; the department provides a pre-academy fitness plan and preparation resources.
How do I apply to become an El Paso firefighter?
Create an account and apply online through the City of El Paso careers portal at governmentjobs.com/careers/elpaso. You can complete a job-interest form there to be notified when applications open.
What entry-level positions are available?
The department hires Firefighter Trainees, Certified Firefighter Trainees, and Certified Paramedic-Fire Trainees.
What does the hiring process involve?
After applying online, candidates pass a written examination and the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT), then attend the Firefighter Trainee Academy.
Does El Paso accept lateral or certified transfers?
Yes. The department is open to certified EMT or firefighter transfers, though applicants must arrange state certification transfers through the Texas Commission on Fire Protection or Texas DSHS.
How can I prepare for the exam and CPAT?
The department provides written-exam practice tests, a CPAT training guide, a pre-academy fitness plan, physical fitness benchmarks, and application tips through its careers resources.
Whom do I contact in HR about firefighter hiring?
You can reach Fire Department HR staff including Senior HR Specialist Linda Sandoval at (915) 212-5623, or the main line at (915) 212-5600.