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1. What is the fire department work & pay schedule?

A San Marcos Firefighter works one of three shifts that are designated as A-Shift, B-Shift, and C-Shift. They work 24 hours on/48 hours off.

From the latest job posting (entry test date 11/04/22), the firefighter entry pay was set at $4,673.63 monthly or $56,083.57 annually. All City of San Marcos employees are paid biweekly on Friday. 

Other useful documents are located in the Human Resources Department - Civil Service Recruitment section.

2. Do you have/host a fire academy?

No, San Marcos does not have a fire academy. You must already have gone through a Texas fire academy and have your TCFP Firefighter certificate. 

Please reference TCFP's (Texas Commission on Fire Protection) steps on how to become a certified Texas firefighter. 

https://www.tcfp.texas.gov/services/new-fire-suppression-fighter

3. Can I pick up an application now? How do I apply?

No. Applications are only available on-line during the application period. Firefighter Civil Service Exams are posted on the City of San Marcos' "Careers" page and the SMFD Employment Opportunities page. 

Testing determines and eligibility list which will be in effect for a period of one year from the test date or until the list has been exhausted, whichever occurs first. Please apply at www.sanmarcostx.gov/jobs.  Questions?  Contact our Human Resource Department, Ph: 512.393.8066.

4. Do you take applications throughout the year?

No. Applications are only accepted when a test date is established. The eligibility list will be in effect for a period of one year from test date or until the list has been exhausted, whichever occurs first. Questions? Please contact our

Human Resources Department.

5. Can I transfer my state fire certification from another state to Texas?

The Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) is the certifying agency in Texas, and they will help you determine what steps need to be taken to become a certified Firefighter in Texas. For more information visit the TCFP website.

6. Will I get paid more if I have a degree?

Yes. Effective October 1, 2012, the City will provide monthly incentive payments to Firefighters for higher education or Certification by the Texas Commission of Fire Protection.

7. Is there an age limit to apply?

Yes, you must be at least 18 years of age and not over 35 years of age on the date of the entrance examination.

8. If I am already a certified Firefighter, will I have to go through firefighting training?

Yes, all San Marcos Fire Department recruits are required to complete eight weeks of an 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. orientation, and then will be assigned to a shift while successfully completing a yearlong probationary firefighter curriculum.

9. Do I have to be a certified Texas Firefighter?

Yes. You will be required to possess a Basic (or above) Structure Fire Protection Personnel Certification from the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) or documentation from the TCFP stating that you are a certified firefighter at the time of entrance examination. For more information visit the TCFP website.

*WE DO NOT HAVE AN ACADEMY* You must already have your Basic (or above) Structure Fire Protection Personnel TFCP Certification & DHSH EMS Certification before applying.

10. Do I need to be a licensed paramedic to take the Civil Service Exam?

Depends on the particular hiring process. You must at least hold a Texas Department of State Health Services DSHS Emergency Medical Services Certification but the level of EMT can change each hiring process. The hiring requirements will be outlined with each hiring announcement posted on the City of San Marcos HR page.  If you have any questions about your status with the Department of State Health Services, contact them through Texas DSHS Website.

website.

11. Is there one civil service test for all the cities in Central Texas?

To our knowledge, each city administers its own test. The San Marcos Fire Department does not participate in a group test with other cities.

12. Where can I obtain study material for the civil service test?

Study material is available at bookstores and public libraries. Ask for the study guides for firefighter tests. Also, a study guide is available for purchase from our test provider, IPMA-HR.

13. Can I volunteer as a firefighter in the City of San Marcos?

No. The San Marcos Fire Department does not utilize volunteer firefighters. We have a fully paid fire department staff. If you would like to observe the operations of the Department you may schedule a ’Ride-Along’. To schedule a Ride-Along, please click on this link: Ride Along with SMFD. At least a two week notice is required and you must complete an application complete with a background check.

Release of Liability form.

14. Where can I find general certification FAQs from the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP)?

You can find them at the TCFP Certified Training Facilities and TCFP website.