Red Oak Fire Department

Red Oak Fire-Rescue serves the city of Red Oak, Texas, in Ellis County just south of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The department provides fire protection, life-saving services, and ambulance transport, organized into Administration, Operations, Special Operations, Community Risk Reduction, Emergency Management, and Chaplain Services divisions.

The department traces its roots to the city's first fire truck in 1949 and operated as an all-volunteer service until 1997, when it began adding paid staff. It transitioned to a combination department, expanded to 24-hour coverage in 2001, and was renamed Red Oak Fire Rescue in 2006 to reflect its broadened capabilities.

Operating from a Central Fire Station (#1) and Station 2 (opened 2008 on Pierce Road), the department holds an ISO Class 2 Public Protection Classification. It is a chartered IAFF local and participates in Texas's statewide TIFMAS all-hazards mutual-aid system.

Career opportunities are posted on the city's GovernmentJobs portal (governmentjobs.com/careers/redoaktx). Candidates should review the eligibility requirements and selection process before applying, and applications are submitted online with supporting documentation including a qualifications sheet, background questionnaire, resume, and certifications.

The department uses a point-based ranking system that scores applicants on certification level, education, and experience, with top candidates advancing through an eight-step selection process that includes a physical ability test, background investigation, panel and chief's interviews, polygraph and psychological exams, and pre-employment medical and drug screening.