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Entry Level Level Firefighter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Kenai

Firefighter

Kenai, AK · On-site

$70K - $99K/yr

The Firefighter is an entry-level position in the City of Kenai Fire Department. The Firefighter ... Possess or obtain a level of National Registry Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) with ...

StateJobsNY

Airport Firefighter 1 Trainee

Scotia, NY · On-site

$45K/yr

The Airport Firefighter 1 Trainee (APFF1T) will have 11 months to complete all the required ... Separate entry level and annual maintenance programs will be developed at State level, in ...

City of Columbia

FIREFIGHTER (CERTIFIED)

Columbia, SC

$43K - $52K/yr

Responds to a variety of emergency calls requiring medical treatment at the First Responder level ... Must complete entry level testing; Must successfully complete Columbia Fire Department 8 Week ...

City of Columbia, SC

FIREFIGHTER (CERTIFIED)

Columbia, SC · On-site

$43K - $52K/yr

Responds to a variety of emergency calls requiring medical treatment at the First Responder level ... Must complete entry level testing; * Must successfully complete Columbia Fire Department 8 Week ...

New York State

Airport Firefighter 1

Newburgh, NY

$50K/yr

Duties Description The Airport Firefighter 1 (APFF 1) works under the supervision of the Base Civil ... Separate entry level and annual maintenance programs will be developed at State level, in ...

City of Americus

FIREFIGHTER

Americus, GA

$34K/yr

We are committed to creating an outstanding level of opportunities for our diverse population, and ... All Applicants for the entry level position of Fire Fighter must show proof of successfully passing ...

New York State

Airport Firefighter 1

Scotia, NY

$50K/yr

Duties Description The Airport Firefighter 1 (APFF 1) works under the supervision of the Base Civil ... Separate entry level and annual maintenance programs will be developed at State level, in ...

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All JobsLevel Firefighter JobsEntry Level Level Firefighter Jobs

Entry Level Level Firefighter information

See salary details

$28.5K

$59.6K

$100K

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

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level 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.

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.
More about Entry Level Level Firefighter jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Level Firefighter jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Level Firefighter job openings:
What states have the most Entry Level Level Firefighter jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Level Firefighter jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Level Firefighter jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Level Firefighter jobs are:
Entry Level Level Firefighter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level 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 Entry - Firefighter/EMT

Gwinnett County, GA

Lawrenceville, GA • On-site

$51K - $81K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Salary: $51,049.00 - $81,733.00 Annually
Location : Gwinnett County, GA
Job Type: Full-Time Merit
Job Number: 26-03833
Department: Fire and Emergency Services
Opening Date: 05/28/2026
Closing Date: 9/30/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Class Summary
**LATERAL ENTRY LEVEL POSITION**
**Only Current Certified Firefighter/EMT Candidates**
Employees must successfully complete state EMS licensure, state firefighter certification, and other requirements to successfully operate on a department emergency response vehicle during first two years of employment.
Applicants must pass a comprehensive background investigation including criminal, controlled substance, driving, employment history checks, an oral interview, medical exam including drug screen, psychological and physical agility testing.
Minimum Qualifications
  • High School Diploma, or G.E.D. certificate, and
  • Valid Driver's License from state of residency equivalent to GA Class C or higher, and
  • Must be at least 18 years of age, and
  • Must be currently a Certified Firefighter/EMT.

Preferred Qualifications in addition to the above minimum qualifications
  • Current National Registry (NR) or State of Georgia EMT certification OR higher
  • State of GA NPQ Firefighter I and/or Firefighter II
  • NPQ Hazmat Awareness
  • NPQ Hazmat Operations
Other Job Requirements/Information
This job is a safety sensitive position that will require a pre-employment drug test and subsequent random drug and alcohol testing.
This job requires a public safety background check to include motor vehicle histories, criminal histories, and finger printing.
This job may require on-call rotation and emergency after-hours, weekends, and/or holidays.
Lateral Entry Firefighter/EMT:
  • $51,049 - $81,733(Starting Salary without a degree)
  • $52,580 - $84,185 (Starting Salary including 3% incentive for an associate degree)
  • $54,112 - $86,637 (Starting Salary including 6% incentive for a bachelor's degree)

Salary will be based on qualifications and experience.
The grade for this position is FF213.
For more information:
This position is eligible for the Employee Referral Program.
PLEASE NOTE THAT YOU MAY RECEIVE E-MAILS THROUGHOUT THE APPLICATION AND BACKGROUND PROCESS FOR THIS POSITION. MAKE SURE YOU CAN RECEIVE E-MAILS FROM:
FireRecruiting@gwinnettcounty.comBE SURE TO CHECK YOUR SPAM/JUNK MAILBOX.
Note:The class specifications listed on this website are not the official class specifications for Gwinnett County and are subject to change.
Benefits Offered
**Georgia Firefighter Pension Fund Offered - Funded by Department**
Additional Information
About Gwinnett County
Welcome to Gwinnett County Government
Gwinnett County Government is an award-winning employer that believes in investing in its employees by providing corporate level benefits, a wellness program, professional development opportunities, career advancement, and more
Careers with impact
Gwinnett County sets the standard as a dynamic, vibrant community where all people can enjoy economic opportunities, safe neighborhoods, plentiful greenspace, and recreational facilities. We are committed to hiring those who share our dedication to making life better for our residents and business owners. The culture of superior service that our employees have created reflects that standard and helps staff, residents, and stakeholders remain vibrantly connected.
Exceptional benefits
Working for Gwinnett County comes with exceptional benefits, including health coverage, a robust wellness program (Spouses can participate, too!), onsite employee wellness center, longevity pay, tuition reimbursement, and more. The value of Gwinnett County benefits can be up to 49 percent of an individual's total compensation.
World-class community
More than a million residents make up Gwinnett's diverse community. The County is located just 45 minutes from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and 30 minutes from downtown Atlanta. Georgia Highway 316 reduces travel time to the University of Georgia to 25 minutes.
Gwinnett County is an award-winning employer!
  • Atlanta's Healthiest Employer by Atlanta Business Chronicle
  • Green Communities Platinum Certification for Gwinnett County from the Atlanta Regional Commission
  • Top 100 Healthiest Workplaces in America by Springbuk and PR NewsWire and more!

Vision
Gwinnett is the preferred community where everyone thrives!
Mission
Gwinnett proudly supports our vibrantly connected community by delivering superior services.
Values
Integrity: We believe in being honest, building trust, and having strong moral principles.
Accountability: We believe in stewardship, transparency, and sustainability.
Equity: We believe in fairness and respect for all.
Inclusivity: We believe in engaging, embracing, and unifying our communities.
Innovation: We believe in continual adaptation of technology, process, and experience.
Hiring Process
Gwinnett County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. For more information regarding our hiring process, please click the links below:
Gwinnett County is committed to creating a diverse workforce. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we prohibit discrimination on the basis of genetic information (including sex), race, color, national origin (including ancestry), gender (identity and expression), sexual orientation, age, marital status, familial status (including pregnancy), disability, military or veteran status, religion, political affiliation, immigration status, homeless status, or any other category protected by law.
Reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities may be requested. If you need an accommodation during the application, interview, or testing process, contact Human Resources at 770.822.7915 or HREmployeeRelations@GwinnettCounty.com. This email is only for accommodation requests; for questions related to job postings, use jobs@gwinnettcounty.com.
Our Benefits program is designed to support every aspect of our employees' lives, from physical and emotional to social and financial.
Along with their salary, employees receive a variety of comprehensive benefits as part of their total compensation.
On average, our employees' benefits are worth 48 percent of their base salary!
In other words, employees would spend nearly half of their pay to purchase these benefits on their own. For employees' medical premium alone, the County contributes an average of 91 percent of the cost!
Health
  • Medical plans for active and retired employees
  • Dental and vision plans
  • Prescription drug plan

Wellness
  • Onsite Employee Wellness Center
  • 24/7 Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Immunizations
  • Wellness education and incentive programs
  • Annual wellness fair

Family and Career
  • Training and professional development opportunities
  • Family planning benefits
  • Four weeks of paid parental leave

Time
  • Annual/Sick Leave
  • 12 paid holidays per calendar year
  • 1 paid floating holiday per calendar year

Money
  • Flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care
  • Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) available
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) available
  • Retirement and Savings Plans
  • 401(a) Defined Contribution
  • 457 (b) Deferred Compensation
  • Longevity pay
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Financial education programs

Protection
  • Basic, optional, and dependent life insurance
  • Short-term and long-term disability
  • Critical illness and accident insurance
  • Hospital indemnity insurance
  • Identity theft protection

To learn more about the Benefits offered at Gwinnett County, click here.
01
I agree to answer each of the following questions honestly and thoroughly. I understand that the information I provide will be verified throughout the hiring process.
  • Yes
  • No

02
Are you 18 years old or older?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you presently hold a valid Driver's License?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Are you currently a certified Firefighter?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Are you currently a certified EMT?
  • Yes
  • No

06
If yes, please attach a copy of Fire certifications and EMS cards with your application.
07
If you are currently a certified National Registry (NR) or State of GA EMT, please provide your EMT license number. If you are not currently a Certified EMT, please respond N/A.
08
Do you have any commitments that would not allow you to work on various shifts, weekends, holidays, and/or other periods?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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