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Entry Firefighter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Jerome, ID

Entry Firefighter

Jerome, ID · On-site

$45K/yr

Firefighters assist in maintenance and repair of fire stations and equipment. A firefighter is responsible for assisting the Engineer in maintaining assigned fire apparatus and assisting in ...

City of Superior

Firefighter Lateral Transfer

Superior, WI · On-site

$22.41 - $25.32/hr

Entry Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5 Firefighter $22.41 $23.59 $24.07 $24.57 $24.94 $25.32 Firefighter Specialist 2% $24.07 $24.56 $25.06 $25.44 $25.83 Firefighter Specialist 4% $24.54 $25.04 $25 ...

US Department of the Navy

FIREFIGHTER

Barstow, CA · On-site

$42K/yr

FIREFIGHTER SPECIAL RETIREMENT COVERAGE MAXIMUM ENTRY AGE: Title 5 U.S.C. 3307 authorizes the head of any agency to establish a maximum entry age for the original appointment of individuals to the ...

Air National Guard Units

LEAD FIREFIGHTER

Syracuse, NY · On-site +1

$55K - $72K/yr

The maximum entry age is 37 (see additional information). Qualifications SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Experience leading a crew of three or more firefighters, including at least one firefighter (GS-07 or ...

City of Spartanburg

Firefighter

Spartanburg, SC

$45K/yr

... entry tools, ladders, chain saws, air packs, etc.; rescues victims and administers CPR and basic ... Performs preventative maintenance on firefighting apparatus. Prepares, processes and/or transmits ...

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All JobsEntry Firefighter Jobs

Entry Firefighter information

See salary details

$28.5K

$59.6K

$100K

How much do entry firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry 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 are entry firefighters?

Entry firefighters are individuals who have recently joined the fire service and typically hold entry-level positions within fire departments. Their main responsibilities include responding to fires, medical emergencies, and other incidents, as well as performing tasks such as firefighting, rescue operations, and equipment maintenance. Entry firefighters often undergo rigorous training to learn fire suppression techniques, emergency medical procedures, and safety protocols. They work under the supervision of experienced firefighters and officers while gaining hands-on experience on the job. This role serves as the foundation for a career in fire service, with opportunities for advancement through additional training and experience.

What is the difference between Entry Firefighter vs Volunteer Firefighter?

AspectEntry FirefighterVolunteer Firefighter
Required CertificationsFirefighter I & II, EMT certification often requiredMay require similar certifications, but sometimes less formal training
Work EnvironmentPaid, full-time or part-time fire stationsVolunteer stations, community-based
Employer & Industry UsagePaid fire departments, municipal agenciesVolunteer fire departments, community organizations

Entry Firefighters are paid professionals working full-time or part-time in fire departments, requiring formal certifications. Volunteer Firefighters are community-based, unpaid personnel who often have similar certifications but may have less extensive training. Both roles serve in fire suppression, but Entry Firefighters typically work in structured, paid environments, while Volunteer Firefighters serve in community-driven, unpaid capacities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Firefighter, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Firefighter, you need physical fitness, knowledge of fire safety protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by completion of a fire academy. Familiarity with firefighting equipment, emergency medical systems, and certifications such as EMT are typically required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills help firefighters respond effectively under pressure. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure rapid, coordinated, and safe responses to emergencies while protecting both the public and fellow firefighters.

What are some common challenges new firefighters face during their first year on the job?

As an entry firefighter, you may find the first year both physically and mentally demanding. Common challenges include adapting to the rigorous shift schedules, mastering a wide range of emergency response protocols, and building trust within your team. You'll also need to quickly learn how to handle high-pressure situations while maintaining clear communication with colleagues and other emergency personnel. Over time, support from experienced firefighters and ongoing training will help you build confidence and develop essential skills.
More about Entry Firefighter jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Firefighter jobs? Cities with the most Entry Firefighter job openings:
What states have the most Entry Firefighter jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Firefighter jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Firefighter jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Firefighter jobs are:
Entry Firefighter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Firefighter job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,606 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Firefighter/Paramedic (Lateral Entry)

City of Perrysburg, OH

Perrysburg, OH • On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Salary : $75,062.00 - $95,576.00 Annually
Location : Fire Division, 26100 Fort Meigs Road, Perrysburg, OH
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2026-24
Department: Division of Fire
Opening Date: 06/12/2026
Closing Date: 7/15/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Description
LATERAL-ENTRY FIREFIGHTER/PARAMEDIC OPENINGS
Lateral-entry firefighter/paramedic applicants who have a minimum of two consecutive years of experience as a full-time firefighter/paramedic with no break in service for more than one year, at the time of application, and possess a current Ohio Firefighter II and Paramedic Certificate may apply for a lateral appointment without taking the civil service examination. Such candidates laid off within one year from the date of application or placed in a part-time or reserve position after having worked in a full-time position for two consecutive years within one year from the date of application may apply for a lateral appointment, provided the candidate holds a current Ohio Firefighter II and Paramedic Certificate.
Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wish to apply, must submit all of the following documentation:
1. An application for employment;
2. A copy of current Ohio Firefighter II and Paramedic Certificate;
3. A cover letter and current resume outlining previous firefighting and paramedic experience and training.
4. A physical ability examination certificate/letter (valid CPAT or Firefighter Mile Certificate);
(Lateral Entry candidates can access the National Testing Network website at www.nationaltestingnetwork.com and schedule a Firefighter Mile test or candidates can research local CPAT testing options near you online. Lateral entries are NOT required to complete FireTEAM testing. Please schedule the physical ability test as soon as possible, as testing availability is limited at most locations.)
Please do not upload any documents that reveal or display your Social Security number.
Items 2, 3, and 4 above must be included with your application or emailed to humanresources@perrysburgoh.gov
All documents must be received by the closing date on this posting.
Lateral entry firefighter/paramedics applicants who meet the minimum qualifications will be placed on an eligibility list for lateral entry firefighter/paramedics. Lateral entry firefighter/paramedics must successfully complete the following additional requirements in order to be considered for appointment:
1. A background investigation and assessment;
2. A structured oral interview;
3. A pre-placement medical examination and drug screen;
4. A pre-placement psychological evaluation.
SUMMARY OF DUTIES:
A firefighter performs such duties as prescribed by the Fire Chief, Deputy Chief, Captain, Lieutenant or their designee. A firefighter responds to alarms or emergencies as directed by proper authority. He/she performs physical work for extended periods of time without rest and in inclement weather while working in a "team environment."
Application and testing deadline is July 15, 2026.
Example of Duties
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE POSITION:
  • Wear personal protective equipment such as but not limited to: turnout gear including helmet, hood, gloves, boots and SCBA.
  • Be capable of working at an elevated height.
  • Assist in routine maintenance of the station and equipment as directed.
  • Meet all job safety requirements and applicable safety standards that pertain to essential functions.
  • Remain informed of current developments and procedures pertinent to duties.
  • Assist with public events and public education programs.
  • Be responsible for maintaining their continuing education for both fire and EMS per State of Ohio and Division standards.
OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Responsible for the accuracy and completeness of all reports and records created by them.
  • Shall enter in the station logbooks an accurate and complete account of all actions of the station apparatus and personnel affecting the interest of the Division as designated by the Fire Chief.
  • Forward all reports or communications of special or urgent importance to the next higher authority as soon as possible.
  • Notify the Lieutenant, Captain, Deputy Chief or their designees of any unusual happening or circumstances, which may arise that are not covered by these rules or other authority.

Qualifications
An example of acceptable qualifications: High School Diploma, G.E.D., or equivalent certificate, and two years of consecutive full-time firefighter/paramedic experience.
Certification by the State of Ohio as a Firefighter II.
Certification by the State of Ohio as a Paramedic. Must possess valid NIMS 100, 200, 700, 800 training certificates.
Must possess a valid driver's license and be eligible for coverage under the City's vehicle insurance provider. Must be 18 years of age or older.
Within one year of hire date, must possess valid Hazardous Material Operations certification.
MINIMUM ACCEPTABLE CHARACTERISTICS: (*indicates developed after employment)
Knowledge of:
  • Modern methods of combating fire and the use and maintenance of related equipment;
  • Advanced and basic life support methods;
  • Geography of the City of Perrysburg;*
  • Divisional and City policies, procedures and guidelines;*
  • Incident Command and the use of the Incident Management System.
Skill in:
  • Operation of all Division vehicles and equipment;*
  • Care and use of power tools;
  • Proper care and use of EMS equipment;
  • Use of a personal computer to complete required reports and email.
Ability to:
  • Operate effectively in emergency situations;
  • Effectively communicate in oral and written form;
  • Use tact in dealing with the public;
  • Maintain records and prepare reports;
  • Develop and maintain effective working relationships with other fire personnel and the public.
EQUIPMENT OPERATED: The following are examples only and are not intended to be all inclusive.
  • Division vehicles and equipment;*

  • Power tools;
  • EMS Equipment;
  • Personal computer and related electronics.

Supplemental Information
The City of Perrysburg is an equal opportunity employer.
Due to public records laws in Ohio, properly redacted application materials cannot be kept confidential.
The City of Perrysburg benefit package includes the following:
  • Health insurance, including Rx and dental insurance, is available through the City. Employees currently contribute a 10% premium. We have two medical plans available: a traditional plan and an HSA-eligible plan. Coverage is available on the first of the month following 30 days of service.
  • Vacation:
    • For Entry Level Employees:
      • At the end of one (1) year of employment through the end of five (5) years of employment, an employee will be entitled to ten (10) days or five (5) twenty-four-hour shifts of paid vacation
      • At the beginning of six (6) years through the end of eleven (11) years of employment, an employee will be entitled to fifteen (15) working days or seven (7) twenty-four-hour shifts of paid vacation.
      • At the beginning of twelve (12) years of employment through the end of nineteen (19) years of employment an employee will be entitled to twenty (20) working days or nine (9) twenty-four-hour shifts of paid vacation.
      • At the beginning of twenty (20) years of employment, through the end of twenty-six (26) years of employment, an employee will be entitled to twenty-five (25) working days or eleven (11) twenty-four-hour shifts of paid vacation.
      • At the beginning of twenty-seven (27) years of employment, an employee will be entitled to thirty (30) working days or twelve (12) twenty-four-hour shifts of paid vacation.
    • For Lateral Entry Employees:
      • The City may extend service credit for full-time employment in the fire service with another employer for vacation benefits.
  • The City observes 12 paid holidays.
  • Sick leave may be transferred from other Ohio public jurisdictions provided it has not been cashed out. Sick leave is accumulated at the rate of .0577 hours for each hour worked not to exceed a total of 150 hours per year. There is no maximum accumulation. Unused sick leave is paid according to a formula if an employee leaves, upon normal retirement, with at least 10 years of service or, upon voluntary separation, after 15 years of service.
  • The City also has its own Health and Wellness Clinic. The Clinic is available to employees and their dependents who are covered by our health insurance plan. Most services the Clinic provides are at no cost to the employee, including lab work or any prescription medication that is dispensed there.
  • The City will provide term life insurance at $55,000 after the first of the month following one month of continuous employment.
  • Optical Reimbursement of $375 per contract year per household.
  • Paid Parental Leave is available after one year of service.
  • Tuition Reimbursement benefits are available after one year of service.
  • Longevity pay is available after four years of full-time continuous service.
  • Schedule: Work schedule is based on a 50-hour work week (24 hours on-duty/48 hours off-duty). Employees receive one 24-hour Kelly Day every 28 days.

01
Are you an Ohio certified Paramedic?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have your Firefighter II certification?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Did you attach a copy of your Firefighter II and Paramedic certificate?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Have you successfully completed a physical ability test (Firefighter Mile or CPAT) within the last 12 months?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Have you attached proof of your physical ability test results?
  • Yes
  • No

06
A cover letter and resume must be included with your application. Have you attached these documents?
  • Yes
  • No

07
Are you claiming veteran's status?
  • Yes
  • No

08
If claiming veteran's status, have you attached your DD214?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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