The first officer rank is lieutenant, followed by captain, battalion chief, division chief, assistant chief, and of course fire chief. All promotions from fire specialist to captain are based strictly on scores on written exams that are given once a year. Assistant chiefs are appointed by the fire chief. The Austin Fire Department is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against race or gender. Having said that, some applicants find that our physical ability exam is very difficult.
Women have to pass the same physical ability exam as men do.
Women enjoy respect in the department because they have demonstrated their abilities in order to be hired. In training they are held to the same standard as men. During the AFD Training Academy, one of the most important things instructors look for is that cadets are giving 100 percent. The City of Austin has been looking into providing a day care facility for City employees. Currently, we do not have that option.