The Bernalillo County Fire Department announced that it's extending its application deadline for the upcoming Cadet Academy through Oct. 22.

The academy is set to begin Jan. 17, 2022.

"We are looking for people who are enthusiastic and are excited about having a job where every day to be able to go out and positively affect the community," BCFD Captain David Lujan told KRQE.

There are currently 265 field personnel at 12 stations across the county with a new station set to be added in Albuquerque in 2023.

To be considered for the Cadet Academy, applicants must be at least 18-years of age, have a valid driver’s license, a high school diploma or GED and a National Registry EMT-Basic License, according to KRQE. 

An $8,000 sign-on bonus will be offered to qualified paramedics. All cadets who graduate from the academy and successfully complete the probation period will be awarded a 25-year retirement at 80% of their high three years of service. Interested applicants may visit bernco.gov for more information or to apply.