2

Entry Level Level Firefighter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Firefighter

Portage, MI · On-site

$58K/yr

Perform technical rescues commensurate with the level of training and certification. * Control and ... The entry-level firefighter exam will be held Wednesday, September 16th, at 6:00 P.M. This exam ...

North Carolina Hazardous Materials Level I Responder Minimum Qualifications for Promotion The ... Experience- This is an entry level position. Continued employment is contingent upon successful ...

North Carolina Hazardous Materials Level I Responder Minimum Qualifications for Promotion The ... Experience- This is an entry level position. Continued employment is contingent upon successful ...

... care per level of medical certification; performs fire suppression, incident mitigation and ... Testing Process The testing process consists of an entry-level written exam that includes material ...

Showing results 41-60

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 Sep 1, 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.

How to get a job as an entry level firefighter with no experience?

To become an entry-level firefighter with no experience, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, obtain firefighter training through a fire academy or certification program, and earn certifications such as CPR and EMT. Volunteering with local fire departments or emergency services can also provide valuable experience and demonstrate commitment to the field.

Is 25 too late to be an entry level firefighter?

Entry level firefighters typically range from late teens to early 30s, so being 25 is generally not too late to start. Many fire departments accept candidates up to their mid-30s, provided they meet physical and certification requirements such as EMT training and passing a fitness test.

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:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Level Firefighter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,606 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

$58K/yr

Full-time

Vision, Life

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Make the move to the Portage Department of Public Safety- Fire Division and be part of a team that enhances safety in our community through compassionate care, professionalism, technical competency, and a servant’s heart while upholding our core values of accountability, honor and respect, communication and teamwork, and integrity. Come work with a career department that offers competitive wages, strong benefits, ongoing training, the experience of working with like-minded team members whose vision is to provide the highest quality of service, and the opportunity for special teams!

What You'll Do:

  • Respond to EMS calls and fire alarms.
  • Perform technical rescues commensurate with the level of training and certification.
  • Control and extinguish fires, protecting life and property.
  • Conduct fire code inspections of commercial properties.
  • Maintain and operate Fire Division apparatus and equipment.
  • Conduct public education and public outreach.
  • Complete training and continuing education necessary to maintain or improve essential skills and maintain licenses or certifications.

 Required:

  • Be State of Michigan certified in Firefighter I & II with HazMat Operations.
  • Possess a State of Michigan MFR license (at minimum), EMT-B preferred.
  • Be 18 years of age with a high school diploma or GED.
  • Possess a valid driver's license with a good record.
  • Have the ability to pass a background check.
  • Have the ability to pass a post-offer pre-employment physical with alcohol/drug screen (that includes marijuana).
  • Have the ability to pass a post-offer pre-employment psychological examination.
  • Must live in a county that connects to Kalamazoo County by the end of probation at 1 year.

Candidates who meet the qualifications will receive an email inviting them to register for the written exam.   A study guide is available for purchase through the testing company. The entry-level firefighter exam will be held Wednesday, September 16th, at 6:00 P.M. This exam will be by invitation only.  The last day to register for the written exam is Monday, September 14, or until all available testing slots are filled, whichever occurs first. 

Why Join Us?

  • We offer ongoing training and development.
  • We are an all-hazard fire department.
  • New PFAS-free turnout gear.
  • Additional department section-work available: buildings, apparatus, small tools, SCBA, fire extinguishers, and more.
  • The annual starting rate is $58,911.51 with excellent benefits.

Here is How to Join Us:

  • Apply online at www.portagemi.gov/200/Employment or in person at Portage City Hall/Human Resources. 7900 S. Westnedge Avenue. 
  • Firefighter I & II/HazMat Operations certifications and Michigan MFR, EMT, or Paramedic licenses must be attached to the application for verification.
  • Questions? Contact Human Resources at (269)329-4533 or text (269)998-1385.

Additional Information

  • IAFF Local No. 1467 Collective Bargaining Agreement

 Equal Employment Opportunity

It is the policy of the city to afford equal employment opportunity regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, marital status, height, weight, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity; Positive action shall be taken to ensure the fulfillment of this policy.