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Becoming a Rio Rancho Firefighter
Hiring Testing Process
Applying
To apply for a Firefighter position at the City of Rio Rancho:
- You must be 18 years of age or older.
- You must possess a high school diploma or GED.
If you are applying for a position as a Lateral Firefighter, you must be certified as an IFSAC Firefighter II, or equivalent as determined by the RRFD Training Division.
Applications received that do not indicate the proper licensure or certification will not be considered.
Written Assessment
All candidates will complete the web-based Cognitive and Behavior assessment along with a short video interview through the Public Safety Answers landing page. Scoring in each individual section will be scored, and candidates passing each section will be invited to complete the physical agility section. The cost for this assessment will be $25 for the first 100 candidates; each candidate after that will be charged $50.
To complete this assessment, click here Version OptionsBecoming a Rio Rancho FirefighterHeadline.
Aerial Ladder Climb
All candidates will perform an aerial ladder climb 75ft at a 65-degree angle.
Physical Agility Assessment
The Combat Challenge is a timed five-event physical agility assessment performed sequentially. This assessment will be performed in a turnout coat, helmet, and gloves (all items provided for the candidate for use during the assessment. Candidates are encouraged to bring their own gloves). An air pack will also be worn, but the candidate will not be on air for the assessment. The candidate will perform the following events:
- Stair climb: The candidate will climb 4 stories with a 100 ft section of 1 ¾ in fire hose bundled in a high-rise pack.
- Hose raise: the candidate will raise a section of 2 1/2 inch fire hose by rope hand over hand 4 stories (approx 45 ft).
- Keiser Sled: The candidate will strike a 150 lb sled 5 ft with a 9 lb sledgehammer.
- Charged line: The candidate will advance a charged 1 3/4 inch fire hose 100 ft.
- Dummy Drag: The candidate will drag a 165lb dummy 100 ft.
After completion of the physical assessment, the candidates who pass will be scheduled for an in-person interview.
For the 2025 testing, check the department's social media pages for Q&A and Combat Challenge practice days.
Oral Boards
An in-person interview board will review personal history, career preparedness, and situational questions
Background Investigation
An extensive background check will be conducted. Investigators will review: applicants job history, criminal background, credit check, driving history, and personal history evaluation.
Medical Evaluation
The top candidates and alternates will be selected to complete a medical/fitness evaluation.
Chief's Selection Process
The Fire Chief will then select candidates to attend the fire academy.
Still interested in becoming one of Rio Rancho's bravest?