A firefighting career can be extremely demanding and exhausting – Firefighters may have to work 24-hour shifts to protect the residents of their community from accidents and disasters. If you are willing to risk your social and family life, only then should you think of becoming a Firefighter.
To learn more about this noble profession, read this informative article on how to become a Firefighter in Texas. The career guidelines mentioned here will help you achieve your professional goals.
Should I Become a Firefighter in Texas?
Firefighters have to perform physically strenuous and dangerous physical activities, which can possibly cost them their life. Therefore, candidates are required to be brave, physically fit, and healthy
Go through the information presented below to learn more about the education, certification, and skillset requirements for Firefighters. These details have been extracted from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Education Requirements
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High School Diploma
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Training
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Required
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Certifications/Licenses
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The certification requirements vary by the local jurisdiction.
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Key Skills/Qualities
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Some key skills include:
-Physical Stamina
-Physical Strength
-Courage
-Decision Making Skills
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Annual Mean Income (2019) - National
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$54,650
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Job Prospects (2018-28)
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5%
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Annual Mean Income (2019) -Texas
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$54,760
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Career Outlook
As per BLS Firefighters will experience a 5% employment growth between 2018 and 2028.
Steps for Becoming a Firefighter in Texas
The step-by-step process mentioned below will help you understand how to become a Firefighter in Texas.
Step 1: Acquire High School Education
To qualify for the position of a Firefighter, you need a GED/high school diploma and will be required to complete an approved Fire Suppression training program.
Step 2: Pass a Competitive Screening Process
After meeting the eligibility requirements, you can apply for the Firefighting job. The hiring process is quite long and will require you to take the state certification test and a Physical Ability Test. If you get passing scores on these exams, you will be called for an interview, background investigation, medical exam, and a drug test.
Step 3: Apply for Certification
After completing the required screenings, you have to make a payment to obtain the Texas Commission on Fire Protection Basic Fire Suppression certificate. After paying the fees, you will be issued the certificate immediately.
Duration for Becoming a Firefighter in Texas?
If you want to become a Firefighter in Texas, then you should be prepared to undergo several months of rigorous training. First, you will have to acquire a high school education and then will have to complete a Fire Suppression training program that has been approved.
Once the eligibility requirements have been met, you will then have to clear a competitive state certification test and a physical ability test. These exams will be followed by additional screenings. Once these stages are cleared, you will then have to apply and pay for the TCFP (Texas Commission on Fire Protection) certificate.
Requirements to Become a Firefighter in Texas?
The Lone Star State expects aspiring Firefighters to meet several requirements. These are listed below.
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The candidate should complete a Structure Fire Suppression training program approved by the commission.
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The individual must clear a fire suppression certification test.
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The individual must pass a test to check the background.
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The candidate is required to document the completion of medical training. He/she should obtain a Paramedic, EMT, ECA, or EMR certification.
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The candidate has to apply for certification.
How Much Will I Earn as a Firefighter in Texas?
According to BLS, Firefighters employed in Texas earned $54,760 in 2019 as annual mean income.