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Entry Level Firefighter Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

County of Ford

Firefighter/EMT

Dodge City, KS · On-site

This is an entry level position. Experience will be obtained on the job. Education: High School ... Firefighter I rating must be obtained within one year of employment. Skills: Strong grammatical ...

County Of Ford

Firefighter/EMT

Dodge City, KS · On-site

$15.65 - $16.44/hr

This is an entry level position. Experience will be obtained on the job. Education: High School ... Firefighter I rating must be obtained within one year of employment. Skills: Strong grammatical ...

All JobsFirefighter JobsEntry Level Firefighter JobsEntry Level Firefighter Jobs in Kansas

Entry Level Firefighter information

See Kansas salary details

$25.4K

$53.2K

$89.2K

How much do entry level firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level firefighter in Kansas is $53,160.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,600.00 and $61,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I become a firefighter with no experience?

Entry level firefighters typically do not need prior experience but must meet requirements such as a high school diploma or equivalent, pass physical fitness tests, and obtain certifications like CPR and EMT. Fire departments often provide training and expect candidates to demonstrate strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

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 are entry level firefighters?

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.

Is 25 too late to be a firefighter?

Entry-level firefighters can typically start at age 18 or older, and 25 is not considered too late to pursue a career in firefighting. Many departments value maturity and life experience, and candidates often need to complete firefighter training and obtain certifications such as EMT or paramedic licenses. Age requirements vary by department, but starting at 25 is generally acceptable for entry-level firefighter positions.

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.

Can an epileptic be a firefighter?

Entry level firefighters must meet medical standards, which typically include assessments of physical and neurological health. Having epilepsy may disqualify candidates due to safety concerns, as the job requires quick decision-making and physical endurance, but individual cases are evaluated on a case-by-case basis with medical documentation and clearance. It is important to consult with medical professionals and fire department policies for specific eligibility criteria.

Can firefighters make $100,000?

Entry-level firefighters typically do not earn $100,000 annually; most salaries are lower, especially without significant experience, overtime, or specialized roles. Higher salaries are more common in senior positions, urban areas, or with additional certifications and responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level firefighters during their first year on the job?

Entry level firefighters often encounter several challenges in their first year, including adapting to the physically demanding nature of the job and learning to operate under high-pressure emergency situations. They must quickly become proficient with complex equipment and procedures, all while integrating into a close-knit team environment. Additionally, new firefighters may find it challenging to manage unpredictable shift schedules and balance work with personal life. Support from experienced colleagues and ongoing training are key to overcoming these initial hurdles.
More about Entry Level Firefighter jobs
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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Firefighter jobs in Kansas look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Firefighter jobs in Kansas are:
What cities in Kansas are hiring for Entry Level Firefighter jobs? Cities in Kansas with the most Entry Level Firefighter job openings:
Entry Level Firefighter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Firefighter job openings in Kansas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,160 per year, or $25.6 per hour.
Firefighter - Topeka Fire Department

Firefighter - Topeka Fire Department

City of Topeka

Topeka, KS • On-site

$52K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

The City of Topeka is seeking individuals interested in pursuing a career in fire service. We believe in recruiting the best, brightest, most diverse candidates to work as a team to serve our citizens and make our community safer. A Firefighter saves lives and protects property by providing excellence and leadership in fire, rescue, emergency medical response, fire prevention and public education.
La ciudad de Topeka está buscando personas interesadas en seguir una carrera en el servicio de bomberos. Creemos en contratar a los mejores, más brillantes y más diversos candidatos para que trabajen en equipo para servir a nuestros ciudadanos y hacer que nuestra comunidad sea más segura. Un bombero salva vidas y protege la propiedad al proveer excelencia y liderazgo en incendios, rescate, respuesta médica de emergencia, prevención de incendios y educación pública.
Interested candidates must register, complete and successfully pass the Entry Level Firefighter exam and the City of Topeka Physical Ability Test (COTPAT) or CPAT to be eligible for consideration.
To register for an upcoming test date, please click 'Start Your Application' on the City of Topeka's careers site at https://www.topeka.org/careers.
What to expect in the recruitment process:
  1. Register and successfully complete the Entry Level Firefighter Exam and City of Topeka Physical
  2. Ability Test (COTPAT) or CPAT
  3. Background Investigation
  4. Interview Process (Fire Management Board, Fire Chief and Civil Service Commission)
  5. Exam Process (Polygraph, Psychological and Medical Exams)
  6. Final Offer

Annual Firefighter III Starting Salary: $52,715
Click here to view a full position description (Please right-click and open in a new tab)
Questions? Contact our Fire Administration Office at 785-368-4000
Benefits & Incentives
  • 24 Hour Shifts
  • Department issues all required gear
  • Kelly Days and 11 Paid Holidays per Year
  • Generous Sick & Vacation Accruals
  • Health Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Kansas Police & Fire Retirement Benefits
  • Education Bonus
  • Contractual Agreement Between the City of Topeka and IAFF Union Local 83

Apply