The Las Cruces Fire Department is accepting applications for recruits until Oct. 20.
The recruits will enter the academy beginning on Feb. 24, 2025, and if enough people qualify for slots, the fire department said they would fill a second academy tentatively set for July 2025.
“Fire Cadets learn fire suppression techniques, emergency medical services, hazardous material response, and vehicle extrication techniques, amongst other critical lessons required to be a successful firefighter,” LCFD said in a news release.
Minimum qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent, and applicants must pass a written exam, assessment board, physical ability test, acrophobia (fear of heights) test, background investigation, and medical examination.
According to the job posting, fire academy cadets receive $45,136.00 based on a 40-hour work week.
“Graduates of LCFD’s fire academy progress to full-time, regular position firefighters at one of eight Las Cruces fire stations,” the news release said, noting that Fire Station 9 in Sonoma Ranch is set to start construction in September.
During the budget cycle in June, the Las Cruces City Council approved several new firefighter positions at LCFD’s request. Council suggested that they would authorize another 15 positions in 2025.
Further information is available via 575-528-4250 or fd-hiring@lascruces.gov. The release stated that applications must be submitted through the city’s website.