TEMPLE, TX — There is a demand for more first responders nationwide.
Opportunities for those called to protect and serve are sprouting up across Central Texas. This is especially true for places experiencing a population boom.
“We’ve had a lot of growth. We have done some hiring recently,” said Santos Soto, spokesperson for the Temple Fire Department.
Temple Fire is watching their city expand, so they tell 25 News that they are thinking ahead.
“As the city grows, there is obviously a need to grow the public service that goes along with that,” said Soto.
Temple isn’t alone. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of police, fire, and ambulance dispatchers is expected to grow 6% from 2018 to 2028.
“You generally find a shortage of EMS personnel more than the firefighters,” said Soto.
The need for EMTs and paramedics is growing faster than the average of all other occupations. An aging population and an increase in specialized medical facilities require more ambulance transports.
While first responders are in demand, departments want qualified and reliable employees to fill positions. Applicants in Temple who pass the Civil Service examination are required to pass each of the following selection process:
- Physical Assessment Test
- Background investigation
- Polygraph exam
- Oral interview board
- Work fitness medical exam including a drug test
- Eye exam; 20/100 uncorrected
- Psychological exam
The next hiring test in Temple is Feb. 22.
