2

Entry Level Firefighter Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

Firefighter/Paramedic The Town of East Hartford is currently accepting applications for the position of entry level Firefighter/Paramedic. East Hartford Fire Department (EHFD) is a busy, full-service ...

Entry Level Firefighter information

See Connecticut salary details

$27.1K

$56.7K

$95.1K

How much do entry level firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level firefighter in Connecticut is $56,703.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,300.00 and $65,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Firefighter vs Firefighter Trainee?

AspectEntry Level FirefighterFirefighter Trainee
Required CertificationsCPR, EMT, Firefighter 1 certificationTypically in training, may have basic certifications
Work EnvironmentActive firefighting, emergency responseTraining environment, supervised drills
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, emergency servicesFire academies, training programs

Entry Level Firefighters are fully qualified to respond to emergencies and perform firefighting duties, while Firefighter Trainees are in training, gaining necessary certifications and experience before becoming full firefighters.

What is an entry level firefighter?

Entry level firefighters are individuals who have recently been hired or are beginning their careers in fire services, typically after completing required training and certifications. They are responsible for responding to emergency calls, extinguishing fires, rescuing people, and providing first aid. Entry level firefighters also participate in fire prevention, equipment maintenance, and continuous training to improve their skills. Their duties are often supervised by more experienced firefighters or officers as they gain experience on the job.

What does an entry level firefighter do?

As an entry-level firefighter, your responsibilities are to suppress fires and respond to emergency calls as part of a fire brigade or company. You also have numerous duties in the firehouse, such as inspecting and maintaining equipment, cleaning, and completing administrative tasks. The term firefighter typically denotes the lowest rank in a company, and this rank is often divided into several categories to indicate your level of experience. As a firefighter, you take orders from your superiors, such as the driver or engineer, lieutenant, and captain of the company.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level firefighter, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Firefighter, you need a high school diploma or GED, physical fitness, basic emergency response knowledge, and successful completion of fire academy training. Familiarity with emergency communication systems, firefighting equipment, and CPR or EMT certifications are typically required. Teamwork, problem-solving, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are standout soft skills. These abilities are essential to effectively respond to emergencies, ensure public safety, and work cohesively within firefighting teams.

What are the most commonly searched types of Firefighter jobs in Connecticut?

The most popular types of Firefighter jobs in Connecticut are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Firefighter jobs in Connecticut?

For Entry Level Firefighter jobs in Connecticut, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Firefighter jobs in Connecticut look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Firefighter jobs in Connecticut are:

What cities in Connecticut are hiring for Entry Level Firefighter jobs?

Cities in Connecticut with the most Entry Level Firefighter job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Firefighter job openings in Connecticut as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,703 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

Firefighter/Paramedic

GovernmentJobs.com

East Hartford, CT • On-site

$73K - $84K/yr

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Firefighter/Paramedic

The Town of East Hartford is currently accepting applications for the position of entry level Firefighter/Paramedic.

East Hartford Fire Department (EHFD) is a busy, full-service department serving a population of over 50,000 residents from five fire stations. EHFD provides fire, rescue and Paramedic EMS services with 5 Engines (ALS), 2 Ladders, 1 Heavy Rescue and a Command Car. Minimum staffing is 26 people per shift.

Application Dates: Continuous

Testing Deadline: Rolling recruitment

Salary Range: $73,379 - $84,653 annually

$33.60 - $38.76 hourly

Paramedic Stipend: $1,000 Sign on Bonus upon hire – one time.

2.5% of top step firefighter/paramedic pay annually

2 STEP APPLICATION AND TESTING PROCESS!

Step 1: Apply with the Town of East Hartford

Go to www.governmentjobs.com/careers/easthartfordct

Step 2: Complete an online Testing and Video Interview

Minimum Qualifications – Entry Level Firefighter/Paramedic

At time of application:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Must have a high school diploma or GED
  • Possess a State of Connecticut Paramedic License or National Registry Paramedic Certification

OR

  • Proof of enrollment and expected completion from a paramedic program prior to hire. A signed letter from your paramedic program director is sufficient.

At time of job offer:

  • A CPAT (Candidate Physical Ability Test) certification with a test date not more than one calendar year prior to the date of the job offer.
  • A valid Connecticut Paramedic License or National Registry Paramedic Certification.
  • A valid Motor Vehicle Operator's License

The EHFD's entry level hiring process includes the creation of an eligibility list. This list has an initial certification date, and an expiration date. The duration of the list can be 1 to 2 years. If you require accommodation to access digital resources, contact Human Resources.

The Town of East Hartford is an Equal Opportunity Employer

In the Town of East Hartford, we don't just accept difference — we celebrate it, support it, and thrive on it for the benefit of our employees, residents, and community partners. The Town of East Hartford is proud to be an equal-opportunity workplace.