Fire Department · Combination
Pharr Fire Rescue
Pharr, TX · Hidalgo County
No active openings right now
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Department careers page ↗Pharr Fire Rescue traces its roots to 1917, when informal fire protection began with an Army surplus hose reel kept at the local light and ice plant, and the community formally chartered the Pharr Volunteer Fire Department in 1922 under Chief J.E. Rogers. The department grew steadily through the 20th century, acquiring its first motorized pumper in 1926, building a concrete fire station in 1928 that still stands, and expanding its apparatus fleet through the 1930s-50s as Pharr grew alongside other South Texas cities.
Today the department operates out of four numbered fire stations and an administration headquarters, running a mixed fleet of engines, a 100-foot ladder platform truck, a tanker, brush units, and specialized rescue apparatus including a heavy rescue unit, a trench rescue trailer, and a mass decontamination trailer. A Volunteer Division of community members supplements the career force, training weekly and responding alongside full-time personnel.
The department's core work centers on fire suppression, rescue, fire prevention/inspections, burn permitting, and public fire-safety education, with particular outreach emphasis on vulnerable populations such as the elderly and children. EMS/ambulance transport in Pharr is handled by a separate city EMS department rather than by Fire Rescue itself.
MissionOur mission is to provide the highest level of emergency response and mitigation utilizing an all-hazards approach. We strive to deliver efficient, innovative, and accessible services that foster a thriving, safe, and sustainable community. Our department is committed to enhancing the lives of our citizens through public education, outreach, risk reduction and effective emergency response.
Firefighter openings are posted and applied for through the City of Pharr's centralized applicant portal, with hiring governed by the city's Civil Service system for firefighters.
Requirements
- At least 18 years of age and not more than 35 years of age at the time of hire
- Graduate of an accredited high school or equivalency certificate
- Able to read, write, and speak English fluently
- Minimum passing score of 70% on the written civil service entrance exam
- Successful completion of the physical ability test prescribed by the Fire Department
- Pass a background investigation and polygraph
- Pass a post-offer physiological and medical examination, including a visual acuity test
- Valid Class B Texas driver's license within 90 days of hire
- Basic firefighter certification from the Texas Commission on Fire Protection preferred, or evidence of enrollment in an approved training academy
- Good moral character
Hiring process
- Apply online through the City of Pharr's applicant portal
- Sit for the written civil service entrance exam (70% minimum passing score)
- Complete the physical ability test
- Undergo background investigation and polygraph examination
- Receive conditional job offer
- Complete post-offer medical/physiological examination, including visual acuity test
- Verify identity, work authorization, and any required TCFP certification or academy enrollment
Benefits
As City of Pharr employees, firefighters are eligible for the city's general benefits package: automatic enrollment in the Texas Municipal Retirement System (7% employee contribution, 2-to-1 city match), a choice of three medical plans administered by Curative plus no-cost Teladoc telemedicine, $25,000 in employer-paid life insurance, 15 vacation days and 15 sick days annually (more vacation after 20 years), 13 paid holidays, and optional dental, vision, disability, and other supplemental coverage.
Basic firefighter certification from the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) is preferred; applicants without it may qualify by showing evidence of enrollment in an approved fire academy.
Can I burn brush or debris outdoors in Pharr?
Outdoor burning is permitted with a Burn Permit, obtainable at 118 S. Cage Blvd, 3rd floor, Monday-Friday 8 AM-5 PM. Only brush, trees, and limbs are allowed to be burned, and solely for the purpose of land clearance.
What should I do about a bee swarm or attack?
Call 911 if bees are actively attacking; otherwise contact the Fire Department at (956) 402-4400 for bee removal assistance.
How do I request a fire inspection for my business?
Contact the Fire Marshal at (956) 402-4400 to schedule a business fire inspection.
What counts as a hazardous material?
Biological, chemical, or physical agents that are potentially harmful to humans, animals, or the environment.
What do firefighters do day-to-day?
Firefighters respond to fires, accidents, and medical emergencies while also conducting fire prevention activities and equipment maintenance.