Round Rock Fire Department expands cadet academy candidate eligibility

Anyone authorized to work in the U.S. between the ages of 18 and 36 with a high school diploma or equivalency certification, ability to obtain or already in possession of a valid driver's license and driving record meeting the city's auto liability insurance requirements may be considered as a fire cadet. Candidates with prior military service must have concluded with honorable discharge and verification using form DD-214.

Participants in the cadet academy will complete their training and state exams for certification in house at the Round Rock Public Safety Training Center before moving on to work as firefighters for the city.

"While they're here, they're already on our payroll," Glaiser said. "They don't have to pay to go to class to get the certifications and then look for a job. They already have a job."

Candidates cannot hold a paid role as a firefighter at the time of application or when a conditional job offer is made, according to the city.

Fire cadets who are selected for the program will be compensated in accordance with city pay scales, and if hired on as a firefighter, can receive additional compensation for certifications, level of education and assignment.

Additional information about the program is available at www.roundrocktexas.gov/city-departments/fire.