Montgomery County seeks Spanish‑speaking recruits for Fire & Rescue; applications due Feb. 13

Montgomery County Fire & Rescue is recruiting an incoming class of roughly 40 people and is emphasizing outreach to Spanish‑speaking residents, the county’s Spanish‑language Council program reported.

Marcela Rodríguez Villagrán, host of the county’s “En Sintonía” program, interviewed paramedic Johana Fuentes and firefighter Christopher Hernández about the application process and day‑to‑day work. “Ver a un latino, más que todo una hembra latina, es bastante duro en encontrar… poder hablar el mismo lenguaje que ellos” Fuentes said, explaining that Spanish‑speaking providers help residents in crisis.

Why it matters: Officials said Spanish‑language outreach aims to increase trust and access to emergency services in a diverse county where many residents primarily speak Spanish.

What applicants must know: Christopher Hernández said minimum requirements include a high‑school diploma or equivalent, a full (non‑provisional) driver’s license (required to drive ambulances), and being at least 18 years old. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or lawful residents to proceed with background checks.

The recruitment steps, as described on the broadcast, include an online application; a written exam (candidates must score at least 70 percent to advance); a timed physical consisting of eight stations (candidates must complete the circuit within roughly 10 minutes and 20 seconds); background and credit checks; a conditional offer; and medical clearance. The training academy lasts about 26 weeks and includes classroom, medical training and an internship.

Pay and benefits: The program described a starting salary “around $62,000,” plus health, dental and vision insurance, life insurance and pension benefits after about 20 years of service. There are opportunities to advance through ranks and to join specialty teams such as hazmat, water rescue and high‑angle rescue.

How to apply: The program advised applicants to use the county fire‑rescue recruitment page (referred to on air as join.mcfrs.com) and noted the current application window closes February 13. The department said applications open twice a year, so candidates who miss this window will have another chance later in the year.

A spokesperson on the program said the department provides training for recruits and that people without prior experience can enter the academy and progress to EMT and paramedic roles.

The county program encouraged potential applicants to review the department’s online guidance for documentation and deadlines and to use the council’s Facebook page for links to registration.