• Initial Application: All applicants must complete an official City of El Paso Application and apply in person during the open filing period.
• Written Examination: Applicants meeting the minimum qualifications will be scheduled for a written examination. The applicant will be notified of the time and place of the examination at this time. The examination consists of a video based test that is specifically designed to enhance firefighter recruitment. The exam covers many performance dimensions related to being an exemplary firefighter including:
  • Teamwork
  • Positive vs. Negative Influence on Station Internal Relations
  • Professional Responses in Difficult Situations
  • Situational Judgment
  • Positive Relations with Supervisors and Management
  • Professional Behavior and Bearing
• Eligible List: Those individual successfully completing the Written Examination will be placed on the eligible list. These individuals will be ranked in order of their score on the written exam.
• Physical Agility Test: This is a pass/fail examination consisting of the Candidate Physical Agility Test (CPAT). Not all candidates will be invited to participate in the CPAT test. Only enough candidates to fill a Training Academy class will be invited.
• Preliminary Screening: Candidates who successfully complete the CPAT will be invited to a preliminary screening consisting of an Aerial Climb.
• Background Investigation/Interview Board: Applicants will be subject to a background investigation consisting of a criminal investigation, previous employment record, credit references, reputation in the community, and personal references. Applicants will be required to appear before a board of senior Fire Department officials who will interview the candidate to establish his/her suitability for service.
• Physical/Medical Examination: Successful completion of all previous requirements allows for the scheduling of a physical exam by a City appointed physician to determine whether an applicant is able to perform the tasks required of a firefighter. Additionally, applicants will be given a drug screening.

All examinations will be performed to the standards of NFPA 1582: Standard on Comprehensive Occupational Medical Program for Fire Departments 2007 Edition.