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Female Firefighter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lateral Firefighter/EMT

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$71K - $115K/yr

Be part of a department with a rich history of innovation, from having the first female firefighter in 1974 and forming the first Metropolitan Medical Strike Team to respond to chemical, biological ...

Firefighter/EMT Recruit

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$71K - $115K/yr

In fact, in 1974 we were the first fire department in the nation to have a professional female firefighter, and we formed the country's first Metropolitan Medical Strike Team to respond to the ...

Ensure that the environment displays include pictures representative of families in the classroom, non-stereotypical roles (Ex: male nurse, female firefighter) and people with disabilities * Attend ...

Ensure that the environment displays include pictures representative of families in the classroom, non-stereotypical roles (Ex: male nurse, female firefighter) and people with disabilities * Attend ...

IT Manager

Naperville, IL ยท On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Move the team from reactive firefighting to proactive operations * Warehouse Systems & Business ... Equal Opportunity Employer - Minority / Female / Veteran / Disabled

IT Manager

Naperville, IL

$94K - $116K/yr

Move the team from reactive firefighting to proactive operations * Warehouse Systems & Business ... Equal Opportunity Employer - Minority / Female / Veteran / Disabled

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Female Firefighter information

See salary details

$28.5K

$59.6K

$100K

How much do female firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for female 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 there be female firefighters?

Yes, female firefighters are common and serve in fire departments worldwide. They perform the same duties as male firefighters, including emergency response, rescue operations, and fire suppression, often requiring physical fitness, training, and certification. Gender does not restrict eligibility for firefighting roles, and many departments actively promote diversity and inclusion.

What are some common challenges female firefighters may encounter and how are they addressed within fire departments?

Female firefighters may sometimes face challenges such as being underrepresented in the workforce, adapting to physically demanding tasks, and overcoming outdated stereotypes. Many fire departments work to address these by providing mentorship programs, inclusive training, updated equipment designed for diverse body types, and fostering a supportive team environment. Open communication and ongoing diversity initiatives also help ensure that all firefighters, regardless of gender, have equal opportunities for advancement and professional development.

Is it hard for a female to become a firefighter?

Becoming a female firefighter involves meeting the same physical, educational, and certification requirements as male candidates. While the profession has historically been male-dominated, many fire departments promote diversity and provide training to support all recruits. Success depends on individual fitness, skills, and preparation for the demanding environment of firefighting.

What is the difference between Female Firefighter vs Female Emergency Medical Technician?

AspectFemale FirefighterFemale Emergency Medical Technician
Required CredentialsFirefighter certification, EMT certification often requiredEMT certification, sometimes paramedic license
Work EnvironmentFire stations, emergency scenes, rescue operationsAmbulances, emergency scenes, hospitals
Industry UsageFire departments, rescue servicesEMS agencies, hospitals
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Female Firefighters and Female Emergency Medical Technicians both serve vital roles in emergency response. While Female Firefighters focus on fire suppression, rescue, and hazardous situations, Female EMTs provide pre-hospital emergency medical care. Both roles require certification and often work together during emergencies, but their primary responsibilities and work environments differ.

How rare are female firefighters?

Female firefighters make up approximately 4-5% of firefighters in many countries, reflecting a significant gender gap in the profession. Efforts to increase diversity and inclusion are ongoing, and many fire departments are actively recruiting women and providing specialized training and support.

What are female firefighters?

Female firefighters are women who are trained and employed to respond to fires, emergencies, and rescue situations. They perform the same duties as their male counterparts, including fire suppression, emergency medical response, and community education. Female firefighters may also help promote diversity and inclusion within fire departments, serving as role models and advocates for women in the fire service. Despite being a minority in the profession, their involvement continues to grow as more women pursue careers in firefighting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Female Firefighter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Female Firefighter, you need physical fitness, knowledge of fire safety protocols, and completion of fire academy training or relevant certifications. Mastery of firefighting equipment, emergency medical response systems, and communication tools is essential. Strong teamwork, resilience, and quick decision-making are standout soft skills in this demanding role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring effective emergency response, personal safety, and public protection in high-pressure situations.

What is the salary of a female firefighter?

The salary of a female firefighter is generally similar to that of male firefighters, with national averages ranging from $40,000 to $70,000 annually depending on experience, location, and department size. Firefighters often receive additional compensation for overtime, hazardous duty, and certifications such as EMT or paramedic training.
What cities are hiring for Female Firefighter jobs? Cities with the most Female Firefighter job openings:
What states have the most Female Firefighter jobs? States with the most job openings for Female Firefighter jobs include:

Lateral Firefighter/EMT

Arlington County, VA

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site

$71K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Job Description
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
Arlington County requires all applicants to thoroughly complete each section of the application, including prior job responsibilities, duties, and supplemental questions. While you may attach a resume, it will not replace a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Hiring Bonus up to $15,000 for qualified applicants.
โ€ข $5,000 for previous employment with ACFD within 3 years and at least 12 months separation.
โ€ข $10,000 for certified Firefighter II and Emergency Medical Technician.
โ€ข $15,000 for certified Firefighter II and Advanced Life Support Technician.
Lateral Firefighter Hiring Salary/Competitive Step Placement: Arlington County offers a unique opportunity for experienced career firefighters to receive a higher starting salary based on prior service. For Fiscal Year 2026 (June 29, 2025 - June 27, 2026), lateral hires will receive step placement credit on a one-for-one basis for each year of qualifying service, up to a maximum of 10 years of credit, minus one year.
Ready to Make a Difference? Join the Arlington County Fire Department as a Lateral Transfer! Are you a motivated current Firefighter/EMT looking for a new challenge? The Arlington County Fire Department (ACFD) is seeking qualified lateral transfers to join our team!
Here's why you should consider ACFD:
  • Fast-paced, Diverse Environment: Respond to emergencies in an urban community of over 235,000 residents with high-rises, a metro system, residential areas, and a major airport.
  • Special Operations Opportunities: Join our elite Hazmat, Technical Rescue, Swift Water Rescue, or Bomb Squad teams.
  • Career Growth: Explore diverse areas like fire prevention, communications, training, and more.
  • Collaborative Spirit: Work alongside regional partners to ensure community safety.
  • Competitive Schedule & Benefits: Work a predictable schedule with excellent pay and healthcare, including a generous retirement plan.
  • Paid Training: We'll provide paid lateral firefighter school and support your ALS advancement.
  • Progressive Department: Be part of a department with a rich history of innovation.
  • Great Location: Work in Arlington, Virginia, a dynamic, diverse community.

Invest in Your Future with ACFD:
  • Great Schedule & Pay: Enjoy working the equivalent of 8 or 9 days each month or approximately a 50-hour work week with competitive pay, paid annual leave, sick leave, paid parental leave (14 weeks) and holidays plus premium pay for additional certifications, allowing you to increase your earning potential.
  • Financial Security & Peace of Mind: We provide a comprehensive benefits package including full health insurance, dental, vision coverage and a generous defined benefit (pension) ensuring your financial security.
  • Advancement Opportunities: ACFD is committed to your professional growth. We offer paid lateral firefighter school to get you started and support your advancement to earning the ALS (Advanced Life Support) certification.
  • Join a Progressive Department: Be part of a department with a rich history of innovation, from having the first female firefighter in 1974 and forming the first Metropolitan Medical Strike Team to respond to chemical, biological, and radiological threats.

This is more than just a job; it's an investment in your future! We offer a competitive salary, industry-leading benefits, and ongoing opportunities for advancement. Join the Arlington County Fire Department and become part of something special. Watch a video tour of Fire Station 10 here!
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
At the time of application, candidates must have two (2) years of experience post-probation as a full-time firefighter/EMT professional with a jurisdiction or agency whose primary responsibility is fire protection and emergency service, including fire suppression, hazardous materials mitigation, and EMS; and
  • Completion of a career recruit school that includes the following certifications:
  • National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians - Basic (NREMT-Basic);
  • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR);
  • Firefighter I and II Certifications;
  • Hazmat Awareness/Operations Certification;
  • Emergency Vehicle Operations and Incident Command (EVOC) Courses EVOC I, II, and III); and
  • Incident Command System (ICS) Courses (ICS 100, 200, 700, and 800).

Certification Substitutions:
We understand you may have equivalent certifications. We'll accept them if they're accredited through Pro Board or a similar organization.
Breaks in Service:
If you're a previously paid firefighter with a break in service exceeding 90 days your application will require a review process.
Desirable Skills (For Priority Consideration):
While not mandatory, these certifications may give your application a competitive edge:
  • Virginia EMT-I (Intermediate);
  • EMT-P (Paramedic) Certification; or
  • National Registry EMT-P (Paramedic) Certification.

Special Requirements
Qualified candidates are required to complete an interview, psych evaluation, polygraph test, background check, and up to 4 weeks of a lateral transfer academy.
Important: Please provide an active email address, phone number, and mailing address on your application. Failure to do so may hinder our ability to contact you regarding your application and potential next steps.
If you possess a current valid Virginia (VA) EMT-Intermediate or VA Paramedic certification you will be eligible to receive the relative premium pay upon hire:
  • VA EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) Intermediate - $0.88 per hour (non-shift rate)
  • VA Paramedic - $1.75 per hour (non-shift rate)

The FTA is the beginning of a 12-month probationary period and during that period they must complete a 6 week FTA skills verification (with a possibility of extending to 8 weeks if needed), after which they will be assigned to shift work for a 4-10 month trial period to complete additional training in the field.
Bonus Payment Information:
Hiring Bonus up to $15,000 for qualified applicants.
โ€ข $5,000 for previous employment with ACFD within 3 years and at least 12 months separation.
โ€ข $10,000 for certified Firefighter II and Emergency Medical Technician.
โ€ข $15,000 for certified Firefighter II and Advanced Life Support Technician.
Bonus payments will be paid in three portions:
  • At the time of hire;
  • At completion of the academy;
  • At the completion of probation; and
  • Returning ACFD employees will receive one lump sum at hire.

Please note: This process is intended for lateral hires and does not apply to individuals who retired from ACFD. Retirees are not eligible for this hiring program.
Want more information about the lateral transfer process?
Click the link for more specific details about the Fire Department, including an overview of the hiring process, and to obtain the required downloadable documents. Visit the Fire Department's website (https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Departments/Fire) to learn more.
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