Summary of the Application Process

The following is an outline of the hiring process. Each stage must be successfully completed before proceeding to the next step.

Application - To be considered for employment with the Big Spring Fire Department, interested persons must complete the online application for Firefighter/EMT.  Applications must be submitted by the listed application deadline. Late applications will not be accepted.

Written Examination - All applicants applying for entry level positions with the Big Spring Fire Department are required to take the Civil Service written competitive examination.  Applicants must receive a minimum passing grade of seventy (70) percent on the entry level Civil Service written examination to be eligible to receive any of the following additional points added to their final examination grade.   

• An applicant who has served in the Armed Forces of the United States and who received an honorable discharge shall receive five (5) points added to their final examination score. If applicable, you must submit a Form DD-214 Form 4 or NGB Form 22 (if you have been a member of the National Guard) to verify an honorable or general discharge under honorable conditions from the military and receive a passing grade of 70% to receive an 5 points added to the final examination grade. 
• An applicant who is the natural-born or adopted child of a fire fighter who previously suffered a line-of-duty death shall be ranked on top of the eligibility list so long as he scores a 70 or better on the entry level exam.  The deceased firefighter’s applicant child must otherwise satisfy all of the requirements for eligibility [Chapter 143.025 (j) of the Texas Local Government Code].
• An applicant who holds certain certifications with the appropriate agency (Department of State Health Services or Texas Commission on Fire Protection) at the time of the examination shall receive the indicated points in addition to the passing examination score.
  • Structural Firefighter (TCFP) - 5 points
  • Emergency Medical Technician (DSHS) - 5 points
  • Emergency Medical Technician Intermediate (DSHS) - 8 points
  • Emergency Medical Technician (DSHS) - 10 points

Physical Ability Test - All applicants who pass the written examination with a minimum score of 70% are required to successfully complete the Physical Agility Test in one attempt. Applicants must submit the Physician's Release for Physical Agility Testing completed by their medical provider in order the be eligible to participate in the Physical Agility Test. 

Eligibility List- The eligibility list will consist of certified and non-certified candidates who successfully complete entry level testing.  

Polygraph - Polygraph examinations are performed on all candidates to ensure truthfulness of all information provided from the application process.

Oral Interview - Candidates will be required to appear before the Fire Chief for an interview. The interview will cover information obtained about the applicant during the previous stages. The applicant will be asked questions designed to demonstrate certain knowledge, skills and abilities considered basic for effective performance as a firefighter/EMT with the Big Spring Fire Department.

Background Investigation - A thorough background investigation is conducted to verify information received in your application packet. If applicable, a follow-up interview may be conducted to clarify information received during the background investigation.

Terms/Conditional Job Offer - A conditional job offer will be extended to eligible applicants by the Human Resources department prior to the required medical assessment. The conditional offer will be withdrawn if:

• The applicant tests positive for controlled substances;
• The medical practitioner(s) reveals any areas of concern;
• There are any other indicators which would be contraindication of good moral character for employment with the City of Big Spring Fire Department.

Medical Assessment - After the conditional offer is made, applicants must complete a drug screen, Work Steps/job specific agility test, and a physical examination conducted by a designated physician/certified medical provider. The physician/certified medical provider will assess each candidate's physical/mental condition(s) to ensure he/she can function safely as a firefighter.

A final offer of employment and start date will be made after satisfactory completion of all portions of the selection process. Failure of any portion of the conditional offer testing will constitute the automatic withdrawal of any conditional offer of employment made by the City of Big Spring

Any applicant on the eligibility list, whose DSHS or TCFP status changes must notify, in writing by email to sking@mybigspring.com, or in person to the City of Big Spring Human Resources Office located at City Hall, 310 Nolan Street, Big Spring, Texas 79720.  Applicants must provide a copy of the new DSHS or TCFP certificate(s).