Firefighter 3/C Cadet

Position Overview

The Firefighter 3/C Cadet role involves rigorous training and education provided by the Albuquerque Fire Rescue Training Division. Cadets acquire essential skills and knowledge to perform as qualified Firefighters and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). Successful completion of the Fire Academy offers the chance to serve the Albuquerque community as a professional Firefighter.

Compensation Details

• Firefighter estimated annual salary ranges: $39,211 (1st year), $49,390 (2nd year), $62,259 (3rd year)
• EMT Basic Firefighter estimated annual salary: $39,458 (1st year), $53,679 (2nd year), $62,259 (3rd year)
• Paramedic Firefighter estimated annual salary: $46,535 (1st year), $60,751 (2nd year), $64,996 (3rd year)
• Certified Paramedics receive 4.4% incentive pay added to base salary starting at Firefighter 1st class rank

Important Notes

This position requires random drug and alcohol testing due to safety sensitivity. Job descriptions are to outline general duties and may not cover every responsibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Study and understand the policies, procedures, guidelines, and regulations of both the City of Albuquerque and Albuquerque Fire Rescue
• Learn protocols related to structural and wildland firefighting, emergency medical services, hazardous materials handling, technical rescue, incident command, and safety procedures
• Complete the Fire Academy training: either 19 weeks (for current EMT-B or higher) or 28 weeks (for non-EMT candidates), leading to Firefighter II certification by the State of New Mexico
• Achieve required academic and physical fitness standards set by Albuquerque Fire Rescue

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18 years by the academy start date
• If a Veteran, submission of an honorable or general discharge (under honorable conditions) DD-214; other discharges considered case by case except dishonorable
• United States citizenship or legal residency
• Possess valid driver's license; out-of-state hires must obtain New Mexico license within 30 days of hire
• Obtain Class E New Mexico driver's license by 30 days after academy graduation
• EMT Basic License training provided if not currently licensed; must successfully complete and obtain New Mexico State EMT license
• Valid Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) certificate required
• Nationally Registered EMTs or Paramedics must complete New Mexico state reciprocity before graduation
• Males under age 25 must be registered for Selective Service
• Applicants must submit all required documentation through official channels and develop a portfolio online

Preferred Credentials

• EMT Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, or Paramedic certification
• Firefighter 1 and/or 2 certification via International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC)
• Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations Certification

Selection Process

• Pass the Fire Rescue Cadet Written Examination
• Pass the Structured Oral Interview
• Pass a medical exam and drug screening conducted by the City of Albuquerque
• Undergo a comprehensive background investigation

Work Setting

• Attend an intense 19- or 28-week Firefighter and EMT training academy
• Work schedule: 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with occasional exceptions
• Work environments vary including indoor/outdoor locations with exposure to heat, cold, wind, smoke, darkness, confined spaces, elevated areas, heavy equipment, sharp tools, and hazardous terrains