Houston Firefighter Hiring Process
Reinstatement
THE HOUSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT INITIATES REEMPLOYMENT PROGRAM
Fire Chief Thomas Muñoz initiates a reemployment program to mitigate fire personnel staffing shortage
The Houston Fire Department is pleased to announce the implementation of a re-employment program. All former HFD Classified members with a current TCFP Certification and a minimum EMT Certification are encouraged to, “Re-ignite your passion: Rejoin the Houston Fire Department Today”!
Applicants will be required to:
- Participate in re-acclimation training (5 Weeks) - participate in lectures, seminars, and practical training sessions.
- Participate in various types of training in fire suppression and emergency medical services.
- Participate in drills, demonstrations and instruction in hydraulics, pump operation, maintenance, fire suppression, rescue, and emergency medical services.
Other requirements include:
1. Immunizations/shot records will be required prior to job offer.
2. Texas Commission of Fire Protection State Fire Fighters Certification and Texas Department of State Health Services (TDSHS) Emergency Medical Technician Certification(s) will be subject to verification by the Human Resources Department.
3. Texas Department of State Health Services Emergency Medical Technicians Certification as a Paramedic will be subject to verification by the Human Resources Department.
4. Applicants must successfully complete all phases of the hiring process (physical ability test, interview, psychological evaluation, background, immunizations, drug screen, medical
examination).
The Process
- Application for rehire is made within 5 years of resignation *
- The job posting will not be required to secure the Civil Service Commissions approval.
- A City of Houston Application is required to be completed
- Applicants shall take a Physical Abilities Test
- Submission of required information (fingerprints, interview/questionnaire, immunizations)
- Background Check
- Department review and approval
- Conditional Job Offer
- Re-Entry Training
* A member can seek entry into the HFRRF pension system (.pdf) if ... They were previously employed with HFD and hired prior to 36 years old , Inside 5 years they have the buyback option, Outside of 5 years they would become new members of the fund regardless of age, Assuming they meet all other requirements of entry. HFRRF board of trustees would approve entry of the rehire.
Apply Today: REHIRE Former HFD Classified Members - Fire Fighter
Hiring
As authorized by the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) 2025-2029, Article 19, Section I (b), the Parties further mutually agree to permit the hiring of individuals who currently have valid TCFP and TDSHS certifications without taking the Civil Service entrance examination. These individuals must pass a polygraph or psychological exam, PAT, background check, physical exam, immunizations, and drug test as required by the City of Houston. Hiring of these individuals will be at the discretion of the Fire Chief, first come, first serve, until the Houston Fire Department's staffing levels are met.
Civil Service Status:
Individuals hired under this alternative hiring process, who complete their probationary period, shall be entitled to all benefits and legal rights afforded other classified Houston Fire Fighters.
Preemption:
This Alternative Hiring Process preempts Texas Local Government Code, Chapter 143, City of Houston Code of Ordinances, and Civil Service Commission rules, to the extent they conflict.
