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Firefighter Lateral Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Austin Fire

Lateral Firefighter

Houston, TX

Why Lateral Firefighters Choose Austin Fire * Competitive Lateral Pay-Your starting pay reflects your experience--because the work you've already put in matters. * New "Austin Schedule" Coming in ...

Austin Fire

Lateral Firefighter

Dallas, TX · On-site

Why Lateral Firefighters Choose Austin Fire * Competitive Lateral Pay-Your starting pay reflects your experience--because the work you've already put in matters. * New "Austin Schedule" Coming in ...

Austin Fire

Lateral Firefighter

Austin, TX

Why Lateral Firefighters Choose Austin Fire * Competitive Lateral Pay-Your starting pay reflects your experience--because the work you've already put in matters. * New "Austin Schedule" Coming in ...

Austin Fire

Lateral Firefighter

San Antonio, TX

Why Lateral Firefighters Choose Austin Fire * Austin is a city you want to work in * Competitive Lateral Pay-Your starting pay reflects your experience--because the work you've already put in matters.

City of College Station

Firefighters

College Station, TX · On-site

$21.78 - $23.35/hr

Lateral credit for certified external hires with TCFP Basic Structural Firefighter Certification and DSHS EMT-P Certification with 1-4 years of service in a full time fire department. WORKENVIRONMENT:

City of Longview

Firefighter/Medic or EMT/B

Longview, TX · On-site

$69K/yr

Description The City of Longview Firefighters/Paramedics are responsible for the protection and ... and lateral pay DOE Minimum Requirements Must be 18 years of age by the end of the application ...

All JobsFirefighter Lateral JobsFirefighter Lateral Jobs in Texas

Firefighter Lateral information

See Texas salary details

$26.6K

$55.5K

$93.2K

How much do firefighter lateral jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for firefighter lateral in Texas is $55,532.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,400.00 and $64,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a firefighter lateral?

A Firefighter Lateral job is a position for experienced firefighters who are transferring from another fire department. These positions allow qualified personnel to join a new department without starting at an entry-level rank. Lateral firefighters typically must meet specific experience, certification, and training requirements. This process helps departments bring in skilled professionals who can quickly integrate into operations.

What responsibilities will I have as a firefighter lateral?

As a Firefighter Lateral, you’ll typically be expected to perform the full range of duties similar to other experienced firefighters, including responding to fire and medical emergencies, participating in training exercises, and conducting equipment checks. You’ll collaborate closely with your new crew, adapting to department protocols and learning the specific procedures unique to your new station. Many lateral hires are given a brief orientation or onboarding process to familiarize them with local geography, equipment, and reporting structures. Your previous experience will be valued right away, but you may also be assessed for compatibility with the team’s operations during your initial shifts.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a firefighter lateral?

To thrive as a Firefighter Lateral, you need proven firefighting experience, thorough knowledge of fire suppression, rescue operations, and emergency medical response, typically supported by Firefighter I/II certification and EMT or Paramedic credentials. Familiarity with specialized firefighting equipment, apparatus operations, and incident management systems like ICS is important. Outstanding teamwork, quick decision-making, and strong communication skills are key soft skills for excelling in this role. These abilities ensure effective emergency response, safety for both the public and crew, and seamless integration into an existing fire department team.

What are the most commonly searched types of Firefighter Lateral jobs in Texas?

The most popular types of Firefighter Lateral jobs in Texas are:

What are popular job titles related to Firefighter Lateral jobs in Texas?

For Firefighter Lateral jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Firefighter Lateral jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Firefighter Lateral jobs in Texas are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Firefighter Lateral jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Firefighter Lateral job openings:

Firefighter Lateral jobs near you
Infographic showing various Firefighter Lateral job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,532 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Lateral Firefighter

Austin Fire

Houston, TX

Full-time

PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Austin Fire will soon be accepting applications


Join Austin Fire: Experience the Difference of an Innovative, Forward‑Thinking Department

Austin Fire is a leader in modern fire service—focused on safety, grounded in professionalism, and committed to the continuous development of every member. As one of the largest and most progressive departments in Texas, we offer unmatched career growth, exceptional benefits, and a culture built on service, integrity, and operational excellence.


Why Lateral Firefighters Choose Austin Fire

  • Competitive Lateral Pay-Your starting pay reflects your experience—because the work you’ve already put in matters.
  • New “Austin Schedule” Coming in 2027-A balanced rotation designed for performance and recovery: 24-on, 72-off, then 48-on, 72-off — repeat.
  • Premier Pension Plan-One of the best in Texas: 3% multiplier based on the average of your highest three earning years Includes a Forward DROP option
  • Emergency Medical Response—Without Ambulance Assignments: Our firefighters serve as EMT-Bs from fire apparatus only. You’ll never be assigned to an ambulance.

Big Department. Big Opportunity.
Advance through the ranks in a large metropolitan department offering:

  • Special Operations
  • Wildfire
  • Arson
  • Prevention
  • Training
  • Functional battalions with deployment opportunities (post‑credentialing)


Paid Continuing Education & Career Development
Austin Fire covers your educational costs—including classes required for promotion.
Plus, our Professional Development program aligns with the national model and offers free access to an Associate’s in Fire Protection and Emergency Management through ACC (with required Texas gen-eds completed or through COA tuition reimbursement).

Generous Leave Packages
The City of Austin provides robust vacation, sick, and special leave benefits—among the most competitive in the region.

One of the Nation’s Best Public Safety Wellness Centers
In-house, comprehensive, and built to support the long-term wellbeing of firefighters.

Optional Highlight for Laterals
Join a major metro department committed to aggressive interior firefighting, strengthened by layered safety protocols and a culture that prioritizes accountability, disciplined execution, and operational readiness.

Minimum Qualifications for Lateral Firefighter Applicants :

  • Meet all Texas Commission on Fire Protection certification requirements Meet Texas Department of State Health Services requirements for EMT-B certification Meet health standards of NFPA 1582 (Latest Edition)
  • Already be a certified firefighter Have been actively employed as a structural firefighter within the last two (2) years (municipality, ESD, military, or county fire department)
  • Possess a minimum of three (3) years of full-time paid firefighter service

Apply