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Entry Level Level Firefighter Jobs in Seattle, WA

Mate Unlimited

Seattle, WA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

The 3rd Mate is an entry-level officer position responsible for safety and security duties ... firefighting equipment, conducting safety drills, and assisting with navigation and cargo ...

Entry Level Level Firefighter information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$32.4K

$67.8K

$113.8K

How much do entry level level firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level level firefighter in Seattle, WA is $67,834.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,800.00 and $78,500.00 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-B, Firefighter I & IILikely same certifications, may still be in training
Work EnvironmentActive firefighting, emergency responseTraining environment, supervised practice
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, emergency servicesFire academies, training programs
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Entry Level Firefighters are fully qualified to respond to emergencies and perform firefighting duties, while Firefighter Trainees are still in training, working under supervision to gain necessary skills. The main difference lies in certification status and job responsibilities, with trainees focusing on learning before becoming fully certified firefighters.

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 physical fitness, emergency response knowledge, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, along with completion of fire academy training and EMT certification. Familiarity with firefighting equipment, breathing apparatus, and emergency communication systems is required. Teamwork, problem-solving, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills in this role. These qualifications and skills are crucial for ensuring effective emergency response, safety, and the ability to protect lives and property.

What are entry level firefighters?

Entry level firefighters are individuals who have recently begun their careers in fire service, usually after completing basic training and certification. They are responsible for responding to emergency calls, extinguishing fires, rescuing people, and providing first aid. Entry level firefighters also participate in ongoing training, maintain equipment, and assist in fire prevention activities. Their work is supervised by more experienced firefighters and officers, and they follow strict safety protocols. This role is physically demanding and requires strong teamwork and communication skills.

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

Entry-level firefighters often encounter challenges such as adapting to the rigorous physical demands of the role, learning to operate complex equipment under pressure, and adjusting to the shift-based work schedule, which may include nights and weekends. Additionally, they must quickly develop strong teamwork and communication skills, as effective collaboration is crucial for safety and efficiency during emergency responses. Building confidence in high-stress situations and continuously learning from experienced colleagues are important aspects of overcoming these early challenges.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Level Firefighter jobs in Seattle, WA? For Entry Level Level Firefighter jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Level Firefighter jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Level Firefighter jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Entry Level Level Firefighter jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Entry Level Level Firefighter job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Level Firefighter job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,834 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Entry Level Firefighter (Multiple Vacancies)

City of Kirkland

Kirkland, WA

$93K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Job Summary The Kirkland Fire Department is seeking Entry Level Firefighters who are passionate about serving their community and answering the call in times of need. We are looking for individuals who are committed to protecting life, property, and the environment through professional emergency response and compassionate public service. Working for the Kirkland Fire Department provides a unique opportunity to join a collaborative, community-focused team that values preparedness, teamwork, and continuous learning.

Our firefighters take pride in delivering high-quality emergency medical care, fire suppression services, and public safety education while building trust and connection through the Kirkland community. Learn more about the Kirkland Fire Department here. Recruitment Process An application with the City of Kirkland is not required at this time.

Please visit Public Safety Testing to complete the required testing and choose to share your test scores with the Kirkland Fire Department. The Kirkland Fire Department accepts test scores on a continuous basis for the Entry Level Firefighter hiring process, however, scores are reviewed once annually in February. Please reference the deadline listed on Kirkland Fire's Public Safety Testing webpage to submit written and physical exam (CPAT) test scores.

Do not submit your scores directly to the Kirkland Fire Department - only scores submitted through Public Safety Testing will be considered. The City of Kirkland applies veteran preference points. The next anticipated hiring process will begin February 2027.

To submit your scores, please visit Public Safety Testing. Job Summary Responsible for performing general firefighting and emergency medical care at fire and disaster scenes. Essential Duties Responds to fire alarms with a company; lays and connects hose, holds nozzles and directs water stream; raises and climbs ladders; uses chemical extinguishers, bars, hooks, lines, and other equipment.

Drives fire apparatus; operates pumps, and other auxiliary fire apparatus. Ventilates burning buildings by opening windows and skylights or cutting holes in roofs and floors. Removes persons from danger and administers emergency care to injured or ill persons.

Performs general maintenance work in the upkeep of department property, cleans and washes walls and floors, cares for grounds around station; makes minor repairs, washes, hangs and dries hose; washes, cleans, polishes, maintains and tests apparatus and equipment. Performs salvage and overhaul operations such as throwing salvage covers, sweeping water and removing debris. Participates in fire drills and attends classes in firefighting and emergency medical care.

Inspects buildings to determine fire hazards. Performs other work as assigned. Writes and maintains accurate reports.

At higher level of Firefighter, instructs job skills to others. May be required to perform duties as a disaster worker in the event of a disaster affecting the City of Kirkland. This may require returning to work during off-hours or remaining at work past normal work hours.

Peripheral Duties Performs administrative and/or technical support tasks for Fire Administration such as computer data entry, maintaining maps, researching programs and issues, and other related support tasks. Instructs the public in fire and emergency medical safety. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Ability to obtain and maintain a working knowledge of fire suppression techniques.

Ability to perform prolonged and arduous work under adverse conditions and to maintain an adequate level of physical fitness at all times. Ability to achieve and maintain certified status as an Emergency Medical Technician. Firefighter V must maintain defibrillation certification.

Ability to learn a wide variety of firefighting duties and methods within a reasonable working test period. Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Graduation from high school or a GED. Candidates must meet such medical, age, psychological, and physical standards as may be prescribed.

Must maintain a valid Washington Driver's License. Must be able to move objects weighing up to 150 pounds. For the full list of minimum qualifications, please visit Public Safety Testing.

Other Working Conditions Work is usually performed during 24-hour shifts. May frequently require exposure to hazardous conditions that are typical to a fire or emergency situation, such as, intense heat, smoke, burning debris and falling structures. Wears self-contained breathing apparatus and protective clothing in emergency situations.

A large part of the time is spent in the performance of routine duties at a fire station. The City of Kirkland is a welcoming community where every person can thrive and grow. We value diversity, inclusion, belonging, and work together to support our community.

We do this by solving problems, focusing on the customer, and respecting all people who come into the City whether to visit, live, or work. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we are committed to creating a workforce that does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, age, color, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, marital status, genetic information, veteran status, disability, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. We encourage qualified applicants of all backgrounds and identities to apply to our job postings.

Persons with a disability who need reasonable accommodations in the application or testing process, or those needing this announcement in an alternative format, may call 425-587-3210 or Telecommunications Device for the Deaf 711. Final candidates for this position will be required to successfully complete a background check, consistent with applicable law.