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Chicago Firefighter information

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$28.5K

$59.6K

$100K

How much do chicago firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for chicago firefighter in the United States is $59,606.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Chicago firefighter?

Chicago Firefighters are trained professionals employed by the Chicago Fire Department to respond to fires, medical emergencies, hazardous material incidents, rescues, and other emergencies within the city of Chicago. Their responsibilities go beyond putting out fires—they also provide life-saving medical care, educate the public on fire prevention, and assist in disaster response. Chicago Firefighters work in shifts, often in physically demanding and dangerous conditions, and undergo rigorous training to ensure public safety. They play a vital role in protecting lives and property throughout the city.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chicago firefighter?

To thrive as a Chicago Firefighter, you need physical fitness, emergency response training, and a high school diploma or GED, often supplemented by EMT certification. Familiarity with firefighting equipment, breathing apparatus, and emergency medical systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, quick decision-making, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for excelling in high-pressure situations. These abilities ensure firefighters can respond rapidly, protect lives and property, and maintain personal and team safety during emergencies.

What are the typical shift schedules for Chicago firefighters, and how do they impact work-life balance?

Chicago Firefighters typically work a 24-hours-on, 48-hours-off shift schedule, which means they are on duty for 24 consecutive hours, followed by 48 hours off. While this allows for extended periods of rest and time with family, it also requires adjustment to long shifts, including overnight hours and weekends. The nature of the schedule can impact personal routines, but many firefighters appreciate the consecutive days off, which can enable better work-life balance compared to traditional 9-to-5 jobs. Team camaraderie and support within the firehouse also help manage the demands of the role.

What is the difference between Chicago Firefighter vs Chicago Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)?

AspectChicago FirefighterChicago Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Required CertificationsFirefighter certification, EMT license, CPREMT certification, CPR
Work EnvironmentFire suppression, rescue, emergency responsePre-hospital emergency medical care
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, emergency servicesAmbulance services, hospitals, emergency agencies

Chicago Firefighters and Chicago EMTs both serve vital roles in emergency response. Firefighters focus on fire suppression, rescue, and hazardous situations, often requiring extensive training and certifications. EMTs provide immediate medical care and transport patients to healthcare facilities. While their work environments overlap during emergencies, their primary responsibilities and certifications differ, making each role specialized within the emergency services industry.

Is the Chicago Fire Department hard to get hired?

Becoming a firefighter in the Chicago Fire Department is competitive, requiring passing written exams, physical fitness tests, background checks, and medical evaluations. Candidates often need relevant certifications such as EMT or paramedic licenses and must meet specific training and experience requirements. The hiring process can be lengthy and rigorous due to the department's high standards and limited openings.

What states have the most Chicago Firefighter jobs?

States with the most job openings for Chicago Firefighter jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Chicago Firefighter jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Chicago Firefighter jobs are:

Chicago Firefighter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chicago Firefighter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,606 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Non-Certified Firefighter - Class A

Village of Tinley Park

Tinley Park, IL

$21.72/hr

Part-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Opportunity at a Glance The Village of Tinley Park, a dynamic, progressive, growing community of nearly 57,000 residents, is the 14th largest city in the Chicago Metro Area. The Tinley Park Fire Department (TPFD), first formed in November 1901, has been home to a professional team of over 600 proud members throughout its history. The Fire Department is uniquely designed to protect the lives and property of Village residents and businesses with a strong, dedicated team of part-time, paid-in-place firefighters who work diligently to ensure smooth operations in four Village Fire Stations situated throughout the community.

TPFD is the largest part-time staffed Fire Department in the State of Illinois, and serves the community through Fire Suppression and Fire Prevention activities, public education, pyrotechnics and radio alarm programs. Self-dispatched by our own 911 Center, and in partnership with MABAS 24, this ISO Class 1 rated Department seeks experienced, responsible, and seasoned individuals, to join our team of courageous, dedicated, professionals who currently protect and serve the community. We are seeking 10-15 individuals interested in pursuing a career in Fire Service looking for an opportunity for learn the fundamentals with a great organization while working towards becoming a Certified Firefighter and begin their career with the Tinley Park Fire Department by attending the January 2027 Fire Academy Training group class (expenses will be paid by the Village).

The Fire Academy Training is part-time consisting of 16-20 hours per week, 2 evenings and 1 Saturday. Key Responsibilities This position is responsible for protecting life and property by performing firefighting duties and emergency response work. Work involves responsibility for participating in fire suppression, rescue, emergency medical services, fire prevention, and public fire safety education.

Ability to operate apparatus and perform hazardous tasks under emergency conditions that may involve strenuous exertion under such handicaps as fire, heat, smoke, and cramped surroundings. Firefighters are also responsible for maintaining fire equipment, apparatus, facilities, and fitness for duty. Firefighters are also required to drive fire service vehicles after successfully completing the Operator Program.

Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills Valid Drivers License (clean driving record) High School Diploma or equivalent Must successfully complete a one (1) year probationary period Must successfully pass the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) for continued employment Must successfully pass the Basic Operations Fire Fighter Academy for continued employment Must successfully pass the Basic Operations Fire Fighter Exam within 6 months of completing the Academy for continued employment The ideal candidate will possess an outstanding work ethic, positive attitude, and be self-motivated. They will be familiar with fire services and committed to making a difference in the community and serving the residents of the Village of Tinley Park. Will be available to work the minimum required shifts each month and not have any restrictions with other fire employment that limits their ability to meet this requirement.

Additional Information Must be available to work a minimum of (7) 12-hour shifts each month including 1 weekend per month, averaging 84 hours per month. Scheduling is based on seniority and availability. Upon successful completion of the Basic Operations Fire Fighter Academy and becoming a Certified Firefighter, the new hourly pay rate will be $24.97 (non-EMT) or $25.72 (EMT).

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