Lateral Firefighter

Join Austin Fire: Experience the Difference of an Innovative, Forward‑Thinking Department

Austin Fire is a leader in modern fire service—focused on safety, grounded in professionalism, and committed to the continuous development of every member. As one of the largest and most progressive departments in Texas, we offer unmatched career growth, exceptional benefits, and a culture built on service, integrity, and operational excellence.

Why Lateral Firefighters Choose Austin Fire

• Competitive Lateral Pay-Your starting pay reflects your experience—because the work you’ve already put in matters.
• New “Austin Schedule” Coming in 2027- A balanced rotation designed for performance and recovery: 24-on, 72-off, then 48-on, 72-off — repeat.
• Premier Pension Plan-One of the best in Texas: 3% multiplier based on the average of your highest three earning years Includes a Forward DROP option
• Emergency Medical Response—Without Ambulance Assignments: Our firefighters serve as EMT-Bs from fire apparatus only. You’ll never be assigned to an ambulance.

Big Department. Big Opportunity.
Advance through the ranks in a large metropolitan department offering:

• Special Operations
• Wildfire
• Arson
• Prevention
• Training
• Functional battalions with deployment opportunities (post‑credentialing)

Paid Continuing Education & Career Development
Austin Fire covers your educational costs—including classes required for promotion.
Plus, our Professional Development program aligns with the national model and offers free access to an Associate’s in Fire Protection and Emergency Management through ACC (with required Texas gen-eds completed or through COA tuition reimbursement).

Generous Leave Packages
The City of Austin provides robust vacation, sick, and special leave benefits—among the most competitive in the region.

One of the Nation’s Best Public Safety Wellness Centers
In-house, comprehensive, and built to support the long-term wellbeing of firefighters.

Optional Highlight for Laterals
Join a major metro department committed to aggressive interior firefighting, strengthened by layered safety protocols and a culture that prioritizes accountability, disciplined execution, and operational readiness.

Minimum Qualifications for Lateral Firefighter Applicants :

• Meet all Texas Commission on Fire Protection certification requirements Meet Texas Department of State Health Services requirements for EMT-B certification Meet health standards of NFPA 1582 (Latest Edition)
• Already be a certified firefighter Have been actively employed as a structural firefighter within the last two (2) years (municipality, ESD, military, or county fire department)
• Possess a minimum of three (3) years of full-time paid firefighter service