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Entry Level Firefighter Jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO (NOW HIRING)

South metro

2027-1 Firefighter Recruit

Centennial, CO

$72K/yr

INVITATION ONLY RECRUITMENT ENTRY-LEVEL & EXPERIENCED FIREFIGHTER RECRUIT FOR SPRING 2027-1 ACADEMY Firefighter Recruit Wage $72,074 APPLICATION DUE 8/28/2026 11:59 p.m. MST This is an invitation ...

New

South metro

2027-1 Firefighter Recruit

Centennial, CO · On-site

$72K/yr

INVITATION ONLY RECRUITMENT ENTRY-LEVEL & EXPERIENCED FIREFIGHTER RECRUIT FOR SPRING 2027-1 ACADEMY Firefighter Recruit Wage $72,074 APPLICATION DUE 8/28/2026 11:59 p.m. MST This is an invitation ...

New

AO Globe Life

Veteran Benefits Representative

Denver, CO · Remote

$80K - $120K/yr

At AO, we collaborate with over 40,000 unions and associations, including Teachers, Firefighters ... Role: Entry-level position with a potential annual performance-based income of $60,000 - $80,000 in ...

AO Globe Life

Veteran Benefits Representative

Denver, CO · Remote

$80K - $120K/yr

At AO, we collaborate with over 40,000 unions and associations, including Teachers, Firefighters ... Role: Entry-level position with a potential annual performance-based income of $60,000 - $80,000 in ...

AO Globe Life

Veteran Benefits Representative

Denver, CO · Remote

$80K - $120K/yr

At AO, we collaborate with over 40,000 unions and associations, including Teachers, Firefighters ... Role: Entry-level position with a potential annual performance-based income of $60,000 - $80,000 in ...

All JobsFirefighter JobsEntry Level Firefighter JobsEntry Level Firefighter Jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO

Entry Level Firefighter information

See Wheat Ridge, CO salary details

$30.3K

$63.3K

$106.3K

How much do entry level firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level firefighter in Wheat Ridge, CO is $63,345.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,400.00 and $73,300.00 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
What are the most commonly searched types of Firefighter jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO? The most popular types of Firefighter jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Firefighter jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Firefighter jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO are:
What cities near Wheat Ridge, CO are hiring for Entry Level Firefighter jobs? Cities near Wheat Ridge, CO with the most Entry Level Firefighter job openings:
Entry Level Firefighter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Firefighter job openings in Wheat Ridge, CO as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Contract. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,345 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

2027-1 Firefighter Recruit

South metro

Centennial, CO

$72K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

INVITATION ONLY RECRUITMENTENTRY-LEVEL & EXPERIENCED FIREFIGHTER RECRUIT FOR SPRING 2027-1 ACADEMYFirefighter Recruit Wage $72,074

APPLICATION DUE 8/28/2026 11:59 p.m. MST

This is an invitation-only recruitment. Only individuals who have received a direct invitation via email from South Metro Fire Rescue are eligible to apply based on their FireTEAM test scores from our recent recruitment.

Applications submitted by individuals who did not receive an invitation email will not be considered and will be removed from the recruitment process.

If you did not receive an invitation from South Metro Fire Rescue, please do not submit an application. We encourage you to monitor our Careers page on our website (www.southmetro.org) in December/January when our applications are open to the public. 

 
GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES

Performs firefighting, emergency medical, and rescue work in emergency situations. Provides basic life support care under standard protocols and statutes. Maintains apparatus, vehicles, equipment, and fire stations. Employees are assigned to a field station and perform a wide variety of firefighting, emergency medical, and rescue techniques under direct and limited supervision.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Must have High School diploma or general equivalency diploma (GED) by hire date of 1/22/2027.
  • Must be 18 years of age by hire date  1/22/2027.
  • Valid CPAT certificate through application deadline of 8/28/2026.
  • Possess or be able to obtain a Colorado driver's license by 1/22/2027.
  • Possess and maintain an acceptable driving record in accordance with SMFR’s Driving Records Policy.
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment background check, criminal history review, physical, fitness/wellness assessment, medical evaluation, drug screen, and psychological exam, as well as a second CPAT immediately prior to final offers (this will be paid for by SMFR).

      ** PLEASE NOTE: SMFR does not permit the use of marijuana including the previous 12 months from contingent offer regardless of whether it is legal in the state of Colorado. **

       
      CPAT:

      Candidates are required to have a CPAT certificate that is valid and available to upload with their application. This certificate must be valid through August 28, 2026.

      • Only a CPAT license by the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) or the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) will be accepted. South Metro Fire Rescue does not host the CPAT test. It is the candidate’s responsibility to obtain the certification on their own.

      Out of State Locations:

      National Testing Network

      If there are no locations near you, the Phoenix Training Center in Arizona, on National Testing Network’s website has multiple tests each week (see link below).

      https://www.nationaltestingnetwork.com/publicsafetyjobs/ntn-arizona-cpat.cfm

      Colorado Locations: 

      Denver Fire Department  

      Aims Community College

      Pikes Peak State College

      VIRTUAL INTERVIEWS:

      After applications are submitted and reviewed, approximately 250 candidates will be invited to a 15-minute virtual interview with SMFR personnel. Interviews will be conducted live via Microsoft Teams and will require candidates to be on camera.

      If more than 250 applicants meet the minimum qualifications, candidates will be selected based on the FireTEAM scores submitted to us in March, 2026. Updated National Testing Network (NTN) FireTEAM scores earned after that date will not be considered for this recruitment.

      ORAL BOARD:

      After completion of virtual interviews, successful candidates will be invited to oral boards.

      TENTATIVE ACADEMY HIRING PROCESS TIMELINE
      The hiring process timeline is subject to change at any time.
       

      July 27, 2026

       SMFR Application opens

      August 28, 2026

      SMFR Application deadline 11:59 p.m. MST

      September 21, 23, 24, 2026

      Virtual Interviews

      November 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11, 12, 2026

      Oral Boards (required to be in-person)

      Third week of November

      Contingent Job Offers extended via email

      End of November to mid-December 

      Pre-employment Testing (background check, psychological evaluation)

      Wellness Dates for all candidates: December 8th and 9th OR December 14th and 15th

      Second CPAT (In-state candidates): December 10th

      Second CPAT (Out-of-State Candidates): Complete your second CPAT at an IAFF-licensed testing location in your state of residence by December 10th

      Fitness/wellness assessment and second CPAT 

      Candidates will be split into two groups and assigned to either 12/8 and 12/9 or 12/14 and 12/15.  SMFR's Wellness Division will assign dates, candidates will not be able to choose their dates. You will be required to be in-person for both dates you are assigned to.

      Candidates will receive these dates when contingent job offers are given. 

      Mid-December

      Final Job Offers

      January 22, 2027

      2027-1 Fire Academy New Employee Orientation

      January 25, 2027

      2027-1 Fire Academy Starts

       *No exceptions will be made to the application deadline.
        

      2027 COMPENSATION:

      During academy, Firefighter Recruit Wage: $72,074

      After graduating academy and based on experience, recruits would start at FF IV or FF III pay grade. Firefighters receive a pay grade increase annually on their hire date.  

      2027 Firefighter Wages:

      Firefighter IV      $84,805Firefighter III      $98,131Firefighter II      $109,035Firefighter I      $121,150

      Additional Compensation

      • SMFR strongly values education and in turn, compensates employees who have a degree with an education differential from the date of hire as follows:
        • Associates $1,000 annually
        • Bachelors $3,000 annually
        • Masters $5,000 annually
        • Ph.D. $6,000 annually

      Experienced Firefighters

      • We value previous paid firefighter experience and are willing to compensate our new hires based on the paid experience they bring to SMFR.
      • To qualify for experienced Firefighter pay upon completion of our academy, applicants must have at least 3 years of paid experience as a firefighter (within the last 12 months) with a full-time fire service agency whose primary responsibility is fire protection and emergency medical service.
       
      BENEFITS

      South Metro Fire Rescue’s compensation philosophy is designed to attract and retain highly skilled and motivated employees. As such, SMFR’s compensation is more than base pay. All regular full-time SMFR employees enjoy a total compensation package including base wages, leave accruals, medical, dental, vision, and life insurance employer-paid premiums, Retiree Health Savings, Death & Disability and employer-paid pension contributions as well as a positive work culture including a robust Fitness, Wellness and Rehabilitation Program, educational opportunities and support, job security and other positive non-monetary values which are intended to collectively position SMFR as an employer of choice in its geographic area. SMFR recognizes that being an employer of choice has different meanings to different people depending on what elements a person highly values. But SMFR's overall goal is to be a great place to work.

      CONTACT INFORMATION:

      For all questions related to the Firefighter Hiring Process, please email employment@southmetro.org. 

      **South Metro Fire Rescue is an Equal Opportunity Employer**

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