Recruit Hiring Process

As members of LAFD, your duties include performing firefighting, emergency medical services, and or assisting with rescue tasks, mitigation of hazardous materials emergencies, firefighter prevention - preplans, inspections. All firefighters are required to become Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) and may become Paramedics.

The written requires 70% or higher to Pass.
The timed run is 1.5 miles in 13:21 or less on a track.
The CTT is required to be completed in 6:59 or less.
- The Criterion Task Test - CTT consists of (5) events:
  1. Stair Climb with hose pack
  2. Rope Hose Hoist
  3. Keiser Sled Machine
  4. Charged Hose Drag
  5. Dummy Drag
A current and valid CPAT Certification will be accepted in place of the CTT

You must progress through the course in a predetermined path from one event to another. You will be wearing a bunker coat, helmet and gloves and SCBA tank with harness while testing.

Additional testing of a ladder climb and a confined space prop to test for heights and clausterphobia will be non-timed.

Selection Process Begins

After your application has been reviewed, you will be notified if you are eligible to participate in the selection process. The initial testing includes a written examination, a timed run, and the Criterion Task Test (CTT), a firefighter-specific physical skills assessment.

Candidates who successfully complete the initial testing will also participate in a panel interview and attend a Pre-Academy. The selection process is typically scheduled over three to four consecutive days.

Reference, Background and Drug Testing

Reference checks, a background screening, and drug testing will follow. Once candidates begin the Academy, the security clearance process will also begin to obtain the badge required for access to Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) facilities during both emergency and non-emergency responses.

Medical, Fitness and Psychological Testing

The Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) Occupational Medicine Department will administer the medical evaluation in accordance with NFPA 1582: Standard on Comprehensive Occupational Medical Program for Fire Departments. This evaluation includes a medical examination, psychological test, and a fitness assessment to determine whether candidates are medically and physically able to safely complete the Fire Academy.

A job offer for a seat in the Academy

Once a candidate successfully passes all initial testing, they will receive an offer to join the Academy and begin training to become a Los Alamos Fire Department (LAFD) firefighter.

Candidates who receive an offer are encouraged to prepare for the Academy by maintaining or improving their physical fitness before the start date. They are also encouraged to contact the Recruitment Team with any questions throughout the process.