Salary: $71,704.50 Annually
Location : Mesquite, TX
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 1302208
Department: Fire Administration
Opening Date: 05/24/2023
Closing Date: 7/28/2023 4:00 PM Central
GENERAL SUMMARY
Salary: $71,704.50/annual minimum
August 19, 2023, Firefighter Civil Service Entrance Exam
When: Saturday, August 19, 2023
Time: 9:00 A.M. (CST) Exam is 3 hours.
Location: Poteet High School, 3300 Poteet Dr., Mesquite, TX 75150
Deadline to apply: Friday, July 28, 2023, at 4:00 P.M. (CST)
Deadline to submit required documents: Friday, August 11, 2023, at 5:00 P.M. (CST)
(We only accept OFFICIAL college transcripts and DD214 if applicable)
Only those candidates passing the minimum qualifications and supplemental questions on the online application will receive an email from the Human Resources Department with further instructions about the deadline date to submit the following required documents:
- OFFICIAL transcripts from the college/university delivered by the school via secured E-script (email) or in a sealed envelope.
- Military DD214 showing active military service with an honorable discharge member 4 copy (only if applicable)
The above required documents are needed in order to reserve a seat for the exam. It is the responsibility of the applicant to submit a complete online application and required documents on or before the deadline date of 07/28/2023.
2023 Study Guide – Please to download a FREE study guide.
Physical Ability Test (PAT) Information:
Applicants will be invited to take the PAT as hiring needs dictate, with notice provided at least two weeks in advance. More information will be provided at the written exam.
PAT location: 215 Holley Park Dr, Mesquite, TX 75149
Physical Ability Video & Candidate Orientation Guide:
Lateral Transfer Program for Certified Firefighter-Paramedics
Ranks above firefighter are not eligible for lateral transfer.
Lateral applicants:
–Shall successfully complete each step in the Fire Department Civil Service hiring process in the same manner as any other applicant, and have satisfactorily completed all entry-level testing, examination, background investigation, and reviews required for original appointment.
-Must have a current Texas Commission on Fire Protection Basic “Structural Firefighter” certification and a Texas Department of State Health Services EMT-Paramedic certification/license.
-Must have at least one (1) year of service as a paid, full-time certified firefighter and paramedic.
-Must have been employed as a firefighter and paramedic within the past 12-months prior to the date of the application to the Mesquite Fire Department and must have left their agency in good standing.
-Must successfully complete a probationary period of twelve (12) months beginning on the date of employment as a Mesquite Fire Department Firefighter. The probationary period may be extended to eighteen (18) months if deemed necessary by the Fire Chief for the completion of additional training, education or experience required of similarly situated firefighters.
-Must not have been dismissed or absent from public service for any misconduct, including unauthorized absence from duty, during the 5-year period prior to the date of entry examination.
-Must be able to fully account for all periods of unemployment.
-Must have received an honorable discharge from military service, if applicable.
-Must be approved by the Fire Chief to participate in the Lateral Entry Program at his/her sole discretion.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
To perform a wide variety of technical tasks in support of fire suppression, rescue, hazardous materials, emergency medical and prevention functions.
SUPERVISION
Supervision is provided by either a Fire Lieutenant, Fire Captain and in some cases a Chief Officer.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- All behaviors comply with the Code of Conduct and Rules of Behavior outlined in Chapter 8 of the General Government Policies and Procedures Manual as well as the Code of Conduct outlined in the Mesquite Fire Department Rules and Regulations.
- Adheres to assigned work schedule as outlined in city and department attendance policies and procedures.
- Respond to emergency incidents, per standard operating procedures, in a safe and timely manner during duty hours.
- Participate in firefighting duties as assigned including but not limited to: stretching hose lines, operating nozzles, fire extinguishers, fire pumps, ground ladders, small tools as well as performing ventilation, salvage and overhaul operations.
- Provide basic and advanced life support to patients per certification level following established policies, protocols and guidelines as authorized by the medical director and the Mesquite Fire Department.
- Participate in rescue operations as assigned including but not limited to: locating and removal of occupants from unsafe structures and vehicles, operation of hydraulic extrication equipment, air bags, specialty saws, rescue ropes, harnesses, stabilization devices, patient hoisting and handling devices.
- Participate per certification level and assignment in the remediation of hazardous material incidents including explosive devices.
- Safely drive, operate and maintain fire department ambulances per standard operating procedures: order and stock pharmaceuticals and EMS supplies as well as perform scheduled testing and maintenance on EMS equipment per department procedures and certification level.
- Maintain fire department vehicles and equipment as directed including but not limited to: refueling vehicles, refilling vehicle water tanks, recharging SCBA tanks, washing department vehicles and hand tools, drying and reloading fire hose.
- Maintain facilities and perform housekeeping duties as directed including but not limited to: sweeping and mopping of floors, cleaning fire station kitchen, bunkroom and restroom facilities, lawn maintenance and performing minor station repairs as needed and assigned.
- Assist in fire prevention duties as assigned including: pre-fire planning activities, commercial and public building fire inspections, public education programs, water system flow tests and hydrant maintenance.
- Participate in drills, training sessions and post-incident critiques as assigned.
- Participate in physical fitness training per department policy.
- Documentation of all assigned EMS incidents per department policies and procedures.
- Document required equipment and vehicle inspections per department policies and procedures.
OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Use departmental computer equipment to input, review and access records, information and other various data.
- May drive fire apparatus or operate fire apparatus on emergency calls or at incident scene in absence of Driver/Engineer.
- Give tours of assigned fire station, demonstrate fire equipment and apparatus and participate in other educational programs for various groups and general public.
- Oversee the work of Fire Department personnel, as necessary, during medical emergencies for patient care; conduct triage operations.
- Will periodically conduct emergency medical services training for department staff and members of other emergency services as assigned.
- Depending on assignment, may participate in investigations of origin and cause of fires; participate in criminal investigations for arson or other related crimes; participate in background investigations for new hires; coordinate with other departments, judicial, legal and law enforcement agencies, laboratory personnel, and other relevant entities; interview suspects, witnesses and other parties associated with investigations; prepare cases; present findings and testify before grand juries or other judicial forums.
- Depending on assignment, may coordinate vehicle maintenance activities with outside contractor and/or the City of Mesquite Equipment Services department.
- Acquire and maintain specialized training/certification as required.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS
Minimum requirements are those required by the Texas Local Government Code, City Civil Service Regulations, City of Mesquite Policy and Procedures, and/or Mesquite Fire Department Rules and Regulations.
To become a Mesquite Firefighter, you must be:
- A U.S. Citizen
- At least 21 years of age, but no older than 35 years of age.
EDUCATION
High School Diploma or GED supplemented by successful completion of 30 credit hours of general coursework at an accredited college or university* in any subject, provided the calculation of hours successfully completed shall not include any remedial courses or course grades below “C”
OR
High School Diploma or GED and have completed two (2) years of active military service with an honorable discharge
*An accredited college or university must be accredited by one of the following agencies:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- New England Association of Colleges and Schools
- Higher Learning Commission – formerly North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
- Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Coursework from a foreign college or university will also be accepted after being reviewed by an agency that is certified by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) to determine the course taken, credit received, and letter grade earned.
College Credit Requirements
- Developmental/remedial courses are not accepted
- Grades lower than “C” are not accepted
- A letter grade of “P” will be accepted if transcript key defines it as “C” or better
EXPERIENCE
None required.
Incumbents must qualify for appointment and successfully complete basic certification as a firefighter by the Texas Commission on Fire Protection as well as certification as an Emergency Medical Technician Paramedic by the Texas Department of State Health Services.
RANK LICENSES AND CERTIFICATES
- Possession of a valid Texas driver’s license as required by the Texas Department of Public Safety and/or the Mesquite Fire Department.
- Possession of or ability to obtain a Firefighter Basic certification by the Texas Commission on Fire Protection.
- Possession of or ability to obtain certification as an Emergency Medical Technician from the Texas Department of State Health Services.
- Possession of or ability to obtain certification as a Emergency Medical Technician Paramedic by the Texas Department of State Health Services as assigned.
- Possession of or ability to obtain certification in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation from the American Heart Association.
- Ability to obtain certifications as required by the Mesquite Fire Department medical director.
- Possession of or ability to obtain certification/licensing as an Arson Investigator and Peace Officer, as assigned.
- Completion of or the ability to complete the National Incident Management System (NIMS) core curriculum classes IS 700, ICS 100 and 200.
NFPA 1582
- Must meet NFPA 1582, Standard on Comprehensive Occupational Medical Program for Fire Departments, upon initial employment and in situations where fitness for duty is questioned.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS / WORK ENVIRONMENT
Full Time Employees:
The City of Mesquite offers the Zero Premium, Employee Only Benefits under the following plans: High Deductible Medical Plan, HMO Dental Plan, Vision Plan, and Life Insurance.
The City is self-insured and offers a choice of four medical plans: HSA, High Deductible, HMO, PPO, and EPO Medical Plans through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas. Employee medical coverage goes into effect the first day of the month following 30 days of employment. Coverage is available to all full-time employees at group rates. Employees enrolled in the City’s self-insured medical plan also have access to the Mesquite Employee Health Center (MEHC) clinic and pharmacy.
The City offers three dental plan options: a managed plan (DHMO), an indemnity plan (DPPO), an enhanced indemnity plan (DPPO Enhanced). Coverage is available to all full-time employees at group rates.
The City offers free Vision Insurance to all employees. Dependents can be added for an additional fee.
Basic Group Life Insurance protection is provided to eligible full-time employees in the amount of two times the annual salary as recorded at the beginning of each year. The following voluntary benefits are available to full-time employees: Supplemental Life, AD&D Insurance, Cancer Insurance and Long-Term Disability
Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS): All employees appointed to positions designated to work 1,000 hours or more per year must participate in the TMRS. TMRS is a qualified tax-deferred retirement plan under Section 401 of the IRS. Seven (7) percent of gross earnings are deducted each payroll as a pre-tax deduction and deposited into the member account. When an employee becomes vested and retires, the City provides 2-to-1 matching contributions.
Other benefits include Social Security, Tax Saver Program (Section 125 Flexible Spending Account), Deferred Compensation Plans, Direct Deposit, Paid Holidays, Paid Vacation, Sick Leave and Personal Leave.
For more information about the City of Mesquite’s employee benefits, please visit: http://www.cityofmesquite.com/hrbenefits
01
Are you currently a United States citizen?
- Yes
- No
02
Are you at least 21 but not older than 35 years of age? ( Select “yes” if you will be 21 by the test date)
- Yes
- No
03
List your date of birth: (MM/DD/YYYY)
04
Select the option that best represents the highest level of education you have achieved.
- Less than High School completion
- High School or GED equivalency
- Technical or Community College attendance
- Technical School completion
- Associate’s Degree
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Master’s Degree
- Ph.D.
- Juris Doctorate
05
Do you have a High School Diploma or GED certificate (or equivalency from an accredited school)?
- Yes – High School Diploma
- Yes – GED
- No – None of the above
06
Do you have a valid driver’s license?
- Yes
- No
07
Have you completed 30 hours of general coursework at an accredited college or university?
- Yes
- No
08
I certify that all college credit hours reported are from an accredited college or university agencies listed below: 1. Southern Association of Colleges and Schools 2. Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools 3. Middle States Commission on Higher Education 4. New England Association of Colleges and Schools 5. Higher Learning Commission (HLC) – formerly North Central Association of Colleges and Schools 6. Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges 7. Western Association of Schools and Colleges Or Coursework from a foreign college or university will also be accepted after being reviewed by an agency that is certified by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) to determine the course taken, credit received and letter grade earned.
- Yes
- No
09
Do you have at least two (2) years of active military service with an honorable discharge?
- Yes
- No
- No prior military experience
10
I understand that my application will be processed, and I will receive an email explaining the next step in the process.
- Yes
- No
11
Have you received MORE than three (3) traffic citations for speeding or a chargeable bodily injury or property accident in the preceding thirty-six (36) months where you received a citation, plead guilty to or received deferred adjudication?
- Yes
- No
12
Have you been convicted or placed on deferred adjudication for a DUI ( Driving Under the Influence) or DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) in the past seven (7) years?
- Yes
- No
13
Have you ever been arrested for any reason?
- Yes
- No
14
Have you ever been charged with a crime, other than a traffic violation?
- Yes
- No
15
Have you ever used or tried methamphetamine, speed, crank, crack or any other form of cocaine?
- Yes
- No
16
Please select the most recent date of methamphetamine, speed, crank, crack or any other form of cocaine use?
- Not applicable
- Less than 6 months ago
- Between 6 months to 1 year
- 1 year to less than 3 years
- 3 years to less than 5 years
- More than 5 years ago
17
Have you ever used or tried heroin, LSD, opium or PCP?
- Yes
- No
18
Please select the most recent date of heroin, LSD, opium or PCP use?
- Not applicable
- Less than 3 months ago
- 3 months to less than 6 months
- 6 months to less than 9 months
- 9 months to less than 12 months
- More than 1 year ago
19
Have you ever used or tried hallucinogenic drugs?
- Yes
- No
20
Please select the most recent date of hallucinogenic drug use?
- Not applicable
- Less than 3 months ago
- 3 months to less than 6 months
- 6 months to less than 9 months
- 9 months to less than 12 months
- More than 1 year ago
21
Have you ever tried ecstasy?
- Yes
- No
22
Please select the most recent date of ecstasy use?
- Not applicable
- Less than 3 months ago
- 3 months to less than 6 months
- 6 months to less than 9 months
- 9 months to less than 12 months
- 1 year to less than 3 years
- 3 or more years
23
Have you ever intentionally used an inhalant to become intoxicated?
- Yes
- No
24
Please select the most recent date you intentionally used an inhalant to become intoxicated?
- Not applicable
- Less than 6 months ago
- 6 months to less than 1 year
- 1 year to less than 3 years
- 3 years to less than 5 years
- 5 or more years
25
Have you ever used or tried steroids that were not medically prescribed?
- Yes
- No
26
Please select the most recent date of steroid use?
- Not applicable
- Less than 6 months ago
- Between 6 to 12 months
- Between 1 to 3 years
- Between 3 to 5 years
- 5 or more years
27
Have you ever sold any illegal drugs to another person?
- Yes
- No
28
Have you ever taken another person’s prescription medication?
- Yes
- No
29
If you are a current City of Mesquite employee, have you been employed in your current position with the City for at least 3 months? Please indicate the option that best represents your current status.
- No, I am NOT a current City of Mesquite employee
- Yes, I am a current seasonal employee with the City of Mesquite
- Yes, I have been in my current City position as a full time or part time employee for at least 3 months
- No, I have not been in my current City position as a full time or part time employee for 3 months
Required Question