ANSWER THE CALL!
Paid On-Call Firefighters Wanted
The City of Austin is accepting applications for Paid On-Call Firefighters. Join a dedicated team that serves and protects the community through emergency response, fire prevention, public education, and community outreach.

Compensation

  • Starting/Training Wage: $11.45 per hour
  • Post-Training Wage: $21.22 per hour
  • Retirement Pension Benefits

Why Join the Austin Fire Department?
Make a Difference. Be the Difference.
Serve with pride. Respond when it matters most. Gain valuable training, build lifelong skills, and help protect the community you call home.

Open House at the Fire Station!
Wednesday, October 7, 2026 | 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Curious about becoming a Paid On-Call Firefighter? Join us at the Austin Fire Station to explore the career, meet current firefighters, ask questions, and pick up an application packet.
Learn more. Meet the team. Answer the call.

KEY RESPONSIBITIES (summary)
Here are some of the main duties you’ll take on in this role:

  • Respond to fire, rescue, medical, and emergency incidents.
  • Operate firefighting and emergency response equipment.
  • Provide emergency medical assistance within training scope.
  • Conduct fire prevention inspections and support smoke detector programs.
  • Participate in public education and community outreach events.
  • Assist with department training, emergency preparedness, and safety initiatives.
  • Maintain fire department equipment, apparatus, and facilities.

This is a summarized list of responsibilities. A full job description is available in the application materials.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Valid State Driver’s License
  • Knowledge of Driver Safety and First Aid

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Pass Physical Fitness Test & Written Exam (October 24, 2026)
  • Reside within 11 minutes of Fire Station

Employment is Contingent Upon

  • Successful completion of the physical fitness test and a written examination (Scheduled on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 9:00 am.)
  • Physical Examination
  • Background Investigation following a conditional offer of employment

Training & Residency Requirement

  • The City of Austin will provide all necessary training in the operation of fire suppression and emergency response equipment.

Residency Response Requirement

  • Successful candidates must be able to respond from their residence to the fire station within 11 minutes.

Testing Information

  • Mandatory Testing Date

Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 9:00 AM
Attendance is required for all candidates.

  • Testing Sequence:
    1. Physical Agility Test (See Physical Fitness Assessment Details): VIDEO
    2. Written Examination (for candidates who successfully complete the fitness assessment)
  • Optional Practice Session: Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 9:00 am. This is a practice opportunity for the physical agility test.
  • Location: All testing and practice sessions will be held at the Austin Fire Station.

Pension Benefit
The City contributes annually to the Paid On-Call Relief Association on behalf of each paid on-call firefighter. The amount of contribution depends on the firefighter’s individual years of service, currently:

  • $2,500 for 0-7 years                                  
  • $3,000 for 8-12 years
  • $3,500 for 13-15 years
  • $4,000 for 16+ years

These annual contributions accumulate in an individual pension account. At a minimum age of 50, depending on years of service (with initial vesting after seven years), individuals become eligible to receive a lump-sum payout of their vested pension following retirement from fire service.

Apply Today!
Application Deadline: Sunday, October 11, 2026, at 11:59 PM

Required Application Documents

Application Submission
Email: HR@ci.austin.mn.us

Or deliver/mail to:  City Hall, 500 4th Avenue NE, Austin, MN 55912

Information Only; Do not Return

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY