The third phase to becoming a firefighter is the cadet phase. Candidates who have been approved by the City Manager undergo about six months of academic and physical training, including:
Cardiovascular fitness is foundational. The Cadet Fitness Cover Letter(PDF, 32KB) and the Cadet Fitness Program(PDF, 9KB) outline the SAFD Cadet Physical Training Program.
Keep in mind that these documents indicate the minimum fitness level a Candidate should be at upon entry to the academy. We also recommend that incoming Cadets be able to achieve the following:
The cadet school is approximately five and one-half months. It is conducted in San Antonio at the Fire Academy located at 300 S. Callaghan Rd. Cadets report to training Monday through Friday from 7:45 AM to 4:30 PM However, during the Emergency Medical Training course, your hours may vary.
If you are already a National Registered EMT (NREMT), you will not have to re-take the National Registry EMT certification exam. You will still have to participate in the five week program, and pass the tests administered through the UT Health Science Center system.
At the end of the cadet class, you will be given a list of available openings in the department. Openings are filled based on seniority.
Graduating Firefighters also known as Probationary Fire Fighters, will immediately participate in standard fire service activities such as fire suppression, inspections, rescue operations, pre-fire planning, and station and equipment maintenance.
Promotional opportunities begin four years from the date you enter the Fire Academy. You will be eligible to take a promotional examination for the next higher rank.
Examinations are given annually and an eligibility list is formed with the passing scores. Individuals on the list are eligible for promotion as vacancies occur within the department.
As employees are promoted, more assignment opportunities will open up in areas such as: