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Entry Level Firefighter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Murrieta

Firefighter/Paramedic

Murrieta, CA

$106K - $129K/yr

Firefighter/Paramedic (Entry-Level ) High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) Coursework in Fire Science or a related field is desirable Firefighter/Paramedic (Entry-Level) - No previous experience ...

City of Murrieta, CA

Firefighter/Paramedic

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$106K - $129K/yr

Firefighter/Paramedic (Entry-Level ) * High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) * Coursework in Fire Science or a related field is desirable * Firefighter/Paramedic (Entry-Level) - No previous ...

City of Waukesha

Firefighter/Paramedic

Waukesha, WI

$58K/yr

July 27, 2026 The City of Waukesha Board of Police and Fire Commissioners is accepting applications for the position of entry level firefighter/paramedic. Individuals who apply should be of excellent ...

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City of Sheboygan, WI

Firefighter/Paramedic

Sheboygan, WI · On-site

$58K/yr

Candidates with minimum of emergency medical responder and entry-level firefighter certifications may be considered. CPAT certification must be obtained by the time of hire, prior to starting. Salary ...

City of Sheboygan

Firefighter/Paramedic

Sheboygan, WI

$58K/yr

Candidates with minimum of emergency medical responder and entry-level firefighter certifications may be considered. CPAT certification must be obtained by the time of hire, prior to starting Salary ...

City of Battle Creek (MI)

Firefighter

Battle Creek, MI

$65K - $84K/yr

This posting will remain open until we begin our next Entry Level Firefighter Eligibility List process, which is expected to begin Fall 2026. The process includes a written test, physical agility ...

City of Richland

$10K/mo

Candidates in this situation will be requested to reapply and go through the entry level Firefighter process (to include PST written testing and CPAT physical test). GENERAL SUMMARY Under the general ...

City of Richland

$7.1K - $9.2K/mo

Fire Firefighter/EMT Entry Level Firefighters start at Step A: $7,105/monthly Position Salary Range: $7,105-$9,227/monthly Recruitment for 2027 vacancies will begin in the spring of 2026. The ...

City of Newberry

Firefighter or Fire Engineer

Newberry, SC · On-site

$39K - $44K/yr

SC driver's license Entry Level Firefighter I / II - Salary Non-Exempt Pay Range - $39,059 - $40,225 Fire Engineer - Salary / Non-Exempt Starting Pay $44,114 Job Posting - Open Until October 8, 2025 ...

City of Newberry

Firefighter or Fire Engineer

Newberry, SC · On-site

$39K - $44K/yr

SC driver's license Entry Level Firefighter I / II - Salary Non-Exempt Pay Range - $39,059 - $40,225 Fire Engineer - Salary / Non-Exempt Starting Pay $44,114 Job Posting - Open Until October 8, 2025 ...

City of Battle Creek, MI

Firefighter

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

This posting will remain open until we begin our next Entry Level Firefighter Eligibility List process, which is expected to begin Fall 2026. The process includes a written test, physical agility ...

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Entry Level Firefighter information

See salary details

$28.5K

$59.6K

$100K

How much do entry level firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level 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.

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 cities are hiring for Entry Level Firefighter jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Firefighter job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Firefighter jobs? The most popular types of Firefighter jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Firefighter jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Firefighter jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Firefighter jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Firefighter jobs are:
Entry Level Firefighter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level 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.
Lateral Transfer Firefighter

Lateral Transfer Firefighter

City of Owensboro, KY

Owensboro, KY • On-site

$16.89 - $23.84/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

City Of Owensboro rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 693 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Salary: $16.89 - $23.84 Hourly
Location : 512 W. 9th Street, Owensboro, KY
Job Type: Full time
Job Number: 2026-00001
Department: OFD, Administration
Opening Date: 01/07/2026
Description
This is a Full-Time position, generally working 7:00am - 7:00am per designated shift (i.e., 24 hours on, 48 hours off). Designated work hours are subject to change on a permanent or temporary basis and include working First Shift, Second Shift, Third Shift, Weekends, and Holidays,
TO BE CONSIDERED FOR LATERAL TRANSFER FIREFIGHTER, YOU MUST HAVE BEEN EMPLOYED WITHIN THE PAST 12 MONTHS AS A FULL-TIME FIREFIGHTER WITH ANOTHER FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Applications are accepted year-round for this position. However, the City will only review and consider applications as vacancies occur. City holds entry-level Firefighter recruitments on an annual basis.
This job reports to the Captain or Lieutenant, as assigned, or as otherwise designated by management.
Relocation is not provided.
INTERESTED LATERAL TRANSFER APPLICANTS ONLY: We are currently accepting applications for lateral transfers for ENTRY LEVEL FIREFIGHTER. PLEASE READ THE BELOW INFORMATION BEFORE APPLYING TO ENSURE THAT YOU MEET OUR REQUIREMENTS.
Job Skills/Requirements
The City of Owensboro, at its discretion, may accept lateral transfers of Firefighters from other agencies at any time, as long as such persons meet the following criteria. Such persons are not required to participate in the competitive testing process.
Examples of Duties
Performs as member of the Owensboro Fire Department to ensure quality performance in saving lives, property, conservation, extinguishing fires, and responding to medical and other emergencies.
Typical Qualifications
Lateral transfers shall be limited to Firefighters who have successfully completed and maintained the following training and certifications:
  • IFSAC Firefighter I, and
  • IFSAC Firefighter II, and
  • IFSAC Hazardous Materials Awareness, and
  • IFSAC Hazardous Materials Operations, and
  • NREMT-Basic and/or ability to reciprocate with Kentucky Board of EMS for EMT-Basic certification, and

Candidates for lateral transfer must have at least two (2) consecutive years full-time paid Firefighter experience.
Current CPAT cards are required at the time of hire for out-of-state applicants, and for in-state applicants that are not members of a fire department that participates in the incentive program. A successful out-of-state applicant is required to convert training to Kentucky State Fire Rescue Training and Kentucky Board of EMS requirements.
Supplemental Information
If considered, and/or if offered a position, prior to hire, lateral transfers shall satisfactorily complete the following, but not limited to:
Comprehensive background checks, including but not limited to, polygraph, criminal, employment and personal references, motor vehicle record
Oral interview
Post-offer, pre-employment drug screen, physical exam, psychological evaluation, and any other necessary medical evaluations/screenings must be satisfactorily completed.
EXCELLENT PAY AND BENEFITS. The City of Owensboro offers a competitive base wage and benefit package, as well as participates in the State of Kentucky Firefighter Training Incentive program that currently stands at $4,562 per year.
Provided benefits include but are not limited to:
Health Insurance
Group Life Insurance
Wellness Program
Retirement
Paid time off includes, but is not limited to:
Vacation
Sick Time
Holidays (for eligible employees)
Benefits are subject to change.
01
Have you been employed within the past 12 months as a full-time hazardous duty Firefighter with another fire department?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have at least two (2) consecutive years' full-time paid Firefighter experience?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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