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Contract Firefighter Jobs in Ridgeland, MS (NOW HIRING)

Contract Firefighter information

See Ridgeland, MS salary details

$23.7K

$49.7K

$83.3K

How much do contract firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract firefighter in Ridgeland, MS is $49,663.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,900.00 and $57,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Contract Firefighter, you need comprehensive training in fire suppression, emergency medical response, and hazardous materials handling, typically supported by relevant certifications such as Firefighter I/II and EMT. Familiarity with firefighting apparatus, rescue tools, and incident management systems is crucial for effective performance. Exceptional teamwork, communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure distinguish top professionals in this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure effective emergency response, safety, and operational efficiency during critical incidents.

What does a contract firefighter do?

Similar to any other firefighter, a contract firefighter fulfills a variety of emergency response and rescue responsibilities but on a contractual basis. Your specific duties depend on the type of firefighting you do. Many contract firefighters work in wildland firefighting, where you work to prevent or control burns in wildland areas. Many federal and state agencies contract firefighters to work throughout the wildfire season. You can also find work with for private insurance companies. In this position, your job is to protect any property or building that has insurance under your employer. Some contract firefighters work overseas, supplementing a foreign fire service.

What is a contract firefighter?

Contract firefighters are trained professionals who work for private companies that provide firefighting services to government agencies, military bases, industrial sites, or remote locations on a contract basis. Unlike municipal firefighters employed directly by a city or town, contract firefighters are hired by organizations to fulfill specific needs, such as wildfire suppression, emergency response, or fire protection in areas without their own fire departments. They often work under fixed-term agreements and may be deployed to various locations based on demand.

What is the difference between Contract Firefighter vs Full-Time Firefighter?

AspectContract FirefighterFull-Time Firefighter
CredentialsFirefighter certification, EMT license often requiredFirefighter certification, EMT license often required
Work EnvironmentTemporary or seasonal assignments, variable hoursFull-time, permanent position with regular hours
Employment StatusContractual, short-term or project-basedPermanent, benefits included
Job StabilityLess stable, dependent on contractsMore stable with benefits and job security

Contract Firefighters typically work on temporary or seasonal basis, often with shorter contracts and less job stability. Full-Time Firefighters hold permanent positions with consistent hours and benefits. Both roles require similar certifications and work in similar environments, but employment terms differ significantly.

What are some unique challenges contract firefighters face compared to municipal firefighters?

Contract firefighters often work in diverse environments, such as industrial sites, remote locations, or military bases, which can present unique hazards and require specialized training. They may need to adapt quickly to different team structures and protocols based on the client or location. Additionally, contract positions can involve variable schedules and shorter-term assignments, so flexibility and strong communication skills are essential. Building rapport with new teams and maintaining readiness for a range of emergencies are key aspects of the role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Firefighter jobs in Ridgeland, MS? The most popular types of Firefighter jobs in Ridgeland, MS are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Firefighter jobs in Ridgeland, MS? For Contract Firefighter jobs in Ridgeland, MS, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Ridgeland, MS are hiring for Contract Firefighter jobs? Cities near Ridgeland, MS with the most Contract Firefighter job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Firefighter job openings in Ridgeland, MS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,663 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Fire & EMS Program Administrative Specialist - Office & Admin Specialist Intermediate

Minnstate

Jackson, MS โ€ข Hybrid

$21.12 - $29.73/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

All Job Postings will close at 12:01 a.m. CT on the specified Closing Date (if designated).

Working Title:

Fire & EMS Program Administrative Specialist - Office & Admin Specialist Intermediate

Institution:

Minnesota West Community and Technical College

Classification Title:

Office & Admin Specialist Int

Bargaining Unit / Union:

206: AFSCME - Clerical and Office

City:

MWST - Jackson Campus

FLSA:

Non Job Exempt

Full Time / Part Time:

Part time

Employment Condition:

Classified - Unlimited

Salary Range:

$21.12 - $29.73

The Fire & EMS Program Administrative Specialist provides comprehensive administrative, regulatory compliance, and program coordination support for Fire and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Customized Training programs at Minnesota West Community and Technical College. The position manages course operations from setup through completion, including state regulatory reporting to the Minnesota Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board (EMSRB) and Minnesota Board of Firefighter Training and Education (MBFTE), student recordkeeping, certification issuance, and financial processing across multiple campuses and partner agencies. A significant component of this role involves subject-matter-level development and maintenance of EMS instructional materials, requiring working knowledge of EMSRB standards and national EMS guidelines - which is distinct from general administrative support. The position serves as the primary administrative liaison between the college and external partners, including fire departments, EMS agencies, and state regulatory bodies.

This position requires working on the Jackson campus. Remote or hybrid work arrangements are not available.

PRINCIPLE RESPONSIBILITIES AND RESULTSRegulatory Compliance & State Course Reporting
  • Create and manage all EMS courses in the Minnesota Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS) eLicense portal; submit MBFTE attendance and completion records for fire training.

  • Maintain course approval documentation, instructor credentials, and compliance timelines; submit all required state reports on schedule.

  • Process EMS course completions in the OEMS eLicense Portal, ensuring attendee records, pass/fail status, and course end dates are entered accurately and on schedule.

Curriculum & Instructional Material Development
  • Maintain and update all EMS course materials (i.e. lesson plans, presentations, skills guides, and assessments) aligned with EMSRB requirements and national EMS standards.

  • Implement updates from EMSRB or national guidelines; maintain version control and prepare instructor support materials to ensure consistent delivery across instructors.

  • Develop and maintain evaluation tools, including quizzes, exams, and skills assessment documentation.

Course Setup, Student Records & Certification Issuance
  • Create and schedule non-credit courses in RST; monitor enrollment against minimums and notify leadership of cancellation risk.

  • Issue Basic Life Support (BLS) and Heart Saver First Aid eCards to students via the American Heart Association (AHA) eCard portal, accurately recording student contact information and supporting documentation.

  • Generate and mail course completion certificates and class rosters to contracting agencies; coordinate grade entry for EMS credit courses in the Integrated Statewide Records System (ISRS).

Financial Operations & Invoicing
  • Generate customer invoices in Workday and monitor payment status against contract terms.

  • Update Salesforce with payment dates upon notification from the Business Office; process purchase orders and monthly medical director invoicing; maintain organized invoice records. Respond to Business Office inquiries regarding past-due agency accounts and update records accordingly.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Coordination & Support
  • Assist with coordinating CNA test-out logistics, including scheduling actors, proctors, and room assignments across all sites.

  • Assist with managing and uploading CNA test-out documentation into Salesforce and maintain accurate activity records.

  • Support CNA test-out operations, including participant coordination and onsite administrative needs.

  • Assist with conducting periodic follow-up with partner facilities regarding outstanding CNA-related invoices or payments.

Credit Course & EMS Registration Support
  • Email Academic Affairs Coordinator with EMS 1112 course info (dates, times, location, instructor, credits); copy the EMS/Fire Coordinator; receive the Course ID back.

  • Register EMS credit students in ISRS, process third-party payment arrangements, and enter courses in the OEMS eLicense portal prior to the start of classes; ensure required regulatory exam approval documentation is submitted within established deadlines.

Data Management, Online Programs & Other Duties
  • Maintain course, student, agency, and payment records in Salesforce; support Ed2Go and online course coordination with program staff.

  • Serve as backup for Accounts Receivable operations at the Jackson campus during the primary AR staff member's absence: receive and scan incoming mail/payments, apply payments in Workday, and process daily deposits. This duty is campus-presence-dependent and constitutes a small portion of overall responsibilities.

  • Perform other duties as assigned, including participating on committees or special projects, to ensure the smooth functioning of the department and maintain the reputation of the college/department as a viable business partner.

Salary Range: $21.12 - $29.73 per hour

Minimum Qualifications
  • Ability to communicate in a variety of formats to gather and relay information with tact and diplomacy.

  • Skill in customer service sufficient to respond effectively to clients, coworkers, and customers who have questions about agency operations and procedures.

  • Knowledge of basic accounting principles and practices sufficient to analyze, interpret, and prepare financial information, records, and reports.

  • Knowledge of standard computer software programs for word processing, spreadsheets, and databases sufficient to create, modify, and protect files.

  • Ability to analyze and make recommendations to management for new or revised administrative and program practices and procedures for smooth and efficient office operation.

Preferred Qualification

  • Associates degree in business, office administration, health sciences, or related field.

  • Experience in a higher education, healthcare, emergency services, or public safety environment.

  • Familiarity with Minnesota State College and Universities systems: ISRS, RST/rST, Workday, and/or Salesforce CRM; experience with Adobe Sign or comparable e-signature platforms is a plus.

  • Knowledge of American Heart Association (AHA) CPR/AED/First Aid eCard processes and Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board (EMSRB) or Minnesota Board of Firefighter Training and Education (MBFTE) reporting requirements.

  • Understanding of EMS course structures, certification levels, and national EMS education standards.

  • Experience creating or maintaining instructional materials in a healthcare or adult education context.

Other Requirements
  • You must apply online and attach an electronic cover letter and resume to your online application inorder to be considered for this position.

  • All applicants must be able to lawfully accept employment in the United States at the time ofemployment.

  • In accordance with the Minnesota State Vehicle Fleet Safety Program, employees driving oncollege/university business who use a rental or state vehicle shall be required to conform toMinnesota State's vehicle use criteria and consent to a Motor Vehicle Records check

Work Shift (Hours / Days of work)
  • Monday - Friday; 35 hours per week

Telework (Yes/No)
  • No. This position requires working onsite at the Jackson, MN campus. Remote work or hybrid arrangements are not available.

About

Minnesota State Colleges and Universities is an Equal Opportunity employer/educator committed to the principles of diversity. We prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or membership in a local commission as defined by law. As an affirmative action employer, we actively seek and encourage applications from women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and individuals with protected veteran status.

Reasonable accommodations will be made to all qualified applicants with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application system, please contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. Please indicate what assistance is needed.


Benefits Information:

At Minnesota State, we take your well-being and work-life balance seriously. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that features low-cost medical and dental insurance with affordable deductibles, employer-paid life insurance, short- and long-term disability, and pre-tax healthcare and dependent care accounts with a roll-over option. To further support your holistic health, employees also have access to a confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health, legal, and financial counseling. Detailed plan details, rates, and coverage choices can be reviewed directly via the State Employee Group Insurance Program (SEGIP) website.

To support your life outside of work, our package includes 12 paid holidays, generous vacation and sick time, and six weeks of Paid Parental Leave. We also help you secure your financial future with a robust Pension Plan, 457(b) and 403(b) retirement accounts, and various investment options. Furthermore, we invest in your growth by providing dedicated professional development and tuition waivers for both you and your dependents. Please note that specific benefit eligibility and coverage levels may vary depending on the type of position, employee classification, and collective bargaining agreements.

Desired Start Date:

08-31-2026

Position End Date:

Open Date:

08-03-2026

Close Date:

08-26-2026

Posting Contact Name:

Tricia Bueltel

Posting Contact Email:

tricia.bueltel@mnwest.edu