- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a high school graduate or have obtained a GED.
- Possess a valid Texas driver's license without any restrictions that would prevent driving commercial vehicles.
- Have no night vision restrictions which cannot be corrected with standard eye glasses or contact lenses; not have an eye condition that restricts peripheral vision.
- Have minimum vision of 20/100 in both eyes, correctable to 20/40.
- Be free from any physical condition which would interfere with the essential functions of a Firefighter/EMT and be able to pass a medical/physical examination.
Selection & Hiring Process
The Selection and Hiring Process for the College Station's Fire Department is designed to identify qualified, dedicated individuals who demonstrate the skills, integrity, and commitment necessary to serve our community. This process ensures a fair and transparent evaluation of all applicants, aligning with the department’s standards of excellence and public service.
Step 1
Application
Electronic applications are only submitted, and accepted, through this site. Paper applications are not accepted. Applicants should ensure they follow directions carefully, fill out all applicable data fields, and attach all required documents. If a field does not apply, please put N/A in the field so there is no question that it may have been overlooked. Failure to attach appropriate documentation or discrepancies noted on the application, could result in rejection of the application.
Step 2
Personal History Statement
The Personal History Statement (PHS) is a detailed document that provides an in-depth history of the applicant. Please disclose all relevant information. Applicants can be disqualified for discrepancies or if issues are noted, such as: not disclosing all information, falsifying records, and/or references that do not support the applicant moving forward.
Step 3
Physical Ability Test
The Physical Ability Test (PAT) will be conducted after the PHS has been reviewed. The PAT will be demonstrated to all applicants on the day of the test.
Physical Ability Test Instructional Guide (PDF)
CSFD Physical Ability Test (Video)
Step 4
Job Match Assessment
The Job Match Assessment is designed to help us understand how well your skills, experience, and work style align with the requirements and culture of CSFD. It’s not a test, but more of a way to ensure a mutual fit. The assessment can also give you insights into the role and what’s expected. It can help you see how you align with what we’re looking for and if the job suits your strengths.
Step 5
Interview Panel
The applicant will be interviewed by a panel of selected employees representing different ranks in the department.
Step 6
Fire Chief Interview
The applicant will have an opportunity to interact with the Fire Chief, provide insight on why the applicant would make a good fit within the department, and give the applicant the opportunity to learn more about the department.
Step 7
Polygraph
Polygraph tests may be used to assist in validating applicant information on the application and personal history statement.
Step 8
Eligibility Pool
The eligibility pool will be established after the successful completion and gathering of all information from all previous steps. The candidate will remain in the eligibility pool until the next hiring process. The Fire Chief reserves the right to hire any applicant from the eligibility pool.
Step 9
Fingerprints
The applicant will be responsible for scheduling and completing fingerprints through an approved vendor within a pre-determined time frame.
Step 10
Offer
Human Resources will be notified that the applicant has successfully completed all steps in the hiring process and is recommended to be hired. They will reach out to the selected candidates with the official offer of employment and instructions on the required next steps in the pre-employment process.
Step 11
Pre-Employment Physical Examination
Applicants are directed to the approved physician to perform the required pre-employment Drug Screen and physical examinations based on NFPA 1582 and Safety/Security policies. If the applicant successfully passes the physical examination, the applicant is eligible to be hired.
Step 12
Hired
Welcome to College Station Fire Department! The successful applicant will be provided all the information regarding start date and duration of the new-hire academy to ensure that the new employee is clear on what is expected for their first day.
The shift schedule consists of a 48 hours on-duty, 96 hours off-duty. Shift change occurs at 7:00am.
What can I do to prepare for the application process?
Review the qualifications and job description on our website.
Check your criminal history and driving record to ensure it is correct and up to date. Contact the appropriate agency now to resolve any inaccuracies.
Check your credit score. If there are any issues, start working now to resolve them.
Review information about the Physical Ability Test and begin a workout schedule.
Monitor College Station's Jobs frequently for updates.
Are there any volunteer firefighter opportunities with CSFD?
The College Station Fire Department does not offer volunteer Firefighter opportunities, but several local departments do.
Are there any state or local residency requirements to apply?
There are no residency requirements.
Does CSFD hire for positions other than firefighter?
Yes! When these positions become available, they will be posted on the City of College Station’s job site.
What are the age requirements for the firefighter position?
Minimum age of 18 years. CSFD does not have n upper age limit.
How can I find out what medical conditions are disqualifiers?
A pre-employment physical examination is conducted at the end of the selection & hiring process for those who receive a conditional offer of employment. Applicants must meet the requirements set forth in the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1582, Latest Edition, and Standard on Comprehensive Occupational Medical Program for Fire Departments.
Do I have to be a United States Citizen to work for CSFD?
In order to work with the City of College Station, you must be authorized to work in the United States. If you have questions about your immigration status or work permit, please visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website.
How can I be notified about the next hiring process?
All City of College Station career opportunities are located at governmentjobs.com/careers/cstx/jobInterestCards/categories.
Who do I contact with questions about the selection & hiring process?
Questions? Contact a CSFD Recruiter by phone (979.764.2600) or email (csfdrecruiting@cstx.gov).