Becoming a Firefighter in Houston | Marty Lancton

Many people who aspire to be firefighters are interested in learning more about the job and its benefits. In addition to saving lives, firefighters also get to help the community and develop their leadership skills. They enjoy the job security that comes with being a firefighter. 

Step 1: Fill out the online application and recruiting interest form

To apply for the job, go to the Houston Fire Department's official website and submit an interest form. You will then be notified about the exam's date and how you can submit an application to take the Civil Service Exam.

Step 2: Take the Civil Service Exam

The Civil Service Exam for the Houston Fire Department is a two-part test that will cover the topics of mathematics and reading. To be able to take the exam, you must bring with you valid photo identification.

Step 3: Clear the screening tests

Before taking the exam, you will need to fill out the Pre-Screening Application Form. You will then have to pass various tests, such as a medical exam, drug screening, a polygraph test, and a physical ability test.

Step 4: Take part in the academy training

After you have successfully passed the various tests, you will then need to attend training sessions held by an approved fire academy.

If you are planning on taking the civil service exam as a non-certified firefighter or EMT trainee, you must meet these requirements. You must be at least 18 years old and have a minimum C-grade in order to be considered for the job. In addition, you must have at least two years of military service and a valid driver's license.

Those who are planning on taking the Civil Service Exam as potential firefighters or EMTs must meet these requirements. The Texas Commission on Fire Protection offers two types of certifications: Basic or Higher. These are for individuals who meet the above requirements and have at least 15 college credit hours with a minimum 'C' grade. They must also have a valid driver's license and two or fewer violations within the last 36 months, and you must be at least 18 years of age when applying. 

How long does it take to be a firefighter? 

The training program for the Houston Fire Department typically takes around 6 to 7 months. After that, the department will start the screening process and shortlist candidates for various positions. Depending on the available positions, it might take around 8 to 12 months for you to become a part of the organization.

What are the salary expectations?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 29,530 firefighters in Texas as of May 2021. In 2021, the state's firefighters were expected to receive an annual mean salary that is close to the country's average of $53,310. Firefighters also get good benefits, such as:

• Paid sick leave
• Paid holidays
• Workers' Compensation
• Disability Package and Life insurance
• Health Insurance
• College tuition reimbursement
• Retirement plan
• Choosing the right firefighting degree

Before you start working in a field, it's important that you thoroughly research the various opportunities and requirements that are involved in the profession. One of the most challenging aspects of being a firefighter is the physical training required. Once you have identified the right fit for the job, it's time to decide on the educational path that will allow you to pursue it.

One of the most common ways to become a firefighter is by finishing high school. This process can be accelerated to allow you to enter the academy and become a professional. Due to the increasing number of states that require a professional degree in firefighting, many people are choosing to pursue an Associate Degree.

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About Marty Lancton

Patrick "Marty" Lancton is a Houston, Texas native and a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience as a union President and Vice President, business owner, partner, board member, and state-certified firefighter. He's incredibly involved in and passionate about the lives of the first responders, especially firefighters, from all around the Houston, Texas area.

Marty Lancton's journey as a firefighter and paramedic with the first responders began in the year 2000, when he joined the City of Cedar Park Fire Department in Cedar Park, Texas. After three fulfilling years, he then moved to the City of West University Fire Department in West University, Texas. He stayed at the fire department until 2009 before moving to the City of Houston Fire Department, and has remained there to this day.

Marty Lancton has served in a number of positions of authority within the first responders community. For example, since 2015, Marty has served as the Chairman of the Executive Board for the Houston Professional Firefighters Association Charitable Foundation. Not only that, but also in 2016, Marty was elected President of the Houston Professional Firefighters Association, and in 2017, he even joined the State Association of Firefighters as the Vice President for the Executive Board of Directors. Marty Lancton also joined the Texas AFL-CIO as Vice President of the Executive Board of Directors. In 2019, Marty accepted a senior fellow position from the British American Project. Most recently, Marty made huge career advancements by joining the American Leadership Forum and the United States Executive Committee of the British American Project as a Senior Fellow in 2020. To learn more about Marty Lancton, visit his websites!