Welcome  to  the  Tucson   Fire  Department

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What if I am already a certified EMT or Firefighter elsewhere?

How often does TFD recruit firefighters?

What are preference points and how do they affect my application?

How can I prepare for a career with TFD or the fire service?

Can I work while going through the Academy?

After the Academy, is my employment with TFD guaranteed?

What if I am already a certified Firefighter, EMT, Paramedic, Captain, etc. elsewhere?

The Tucson Fire Department does not require any prior certifications to apply. However, regardless of a person’s background, he or she will have to go through the Civil Service testing process as well as our 22-week training Academy and complete their probationary period. We do not hire into any positions except for Firefighter (not including civilian positions). Once a person has two (2) years on the job as a Firefighter, he or she is eligible for promotions (see “Career Opportunities” for more information).

How often does Tucson Fire recruit?

Due to our lengthy recruitment process, the Tucson Fire Department recruits only once each year, usually starting in January. If you have missed the application deadline for the current year, you must wait until the following year to complete an application and go through the recruitment process.

What are “preference points” and how do they affect my application?

Preference points are awarded through the City of Tucson Human Resources Department. A candidate can be awarded five (5) extra points if he or she qualifies (please call the HR Department at 791-4241 for more information). These points are not awarded to a person’s score until he or she has successfully completed all three testing steps (written exam, interview, and CPAT).

How can I prepare for a career with the Tucson Fire Department?

There are many ways to prepare for the testing process and for a career with TFD. Please see the “Preparation for a Fire Service Career” section (click to go to that page). Your local community college (in Tucson, Pima Community College) is a good resource for Fire Science and/or EMT classes. Talk with current Firefighters to find out more about the job, the pros and cons, etc. to help you make a decision about this field.

Can I work while I’m going through the Academy?

Because the Tucson Fire Department Academy is a full-time job (Recruits work - and are paid for - a 40-hour work week, and are required to keep current with academic assignments and practical skills), and because the City of Tucson restricts outside employment, Recruits cannot hold another job while in the Academy.

Is employment guaranteed with TFD if and when I graduate from the Academy?

The Tucson Fire Department cannot explicitly guarantee employment for all Firefighters who graduate from our Academy. However, it is our goal to find each new Firefighter a position at one of our 18 stations in Tucson.

If you have any questions that have not been answered through the information contained in this web site, please call the Recruitment Hotline at (520) 791-5211 ext. 1202.