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Fire Apparatus Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CITY OF DECATUR

Fire Apparatus Operator

Decatur, GA · On-site

$61K - $65K/yr

Fire Apparatus Operator Reports to: Fire Officer Department: Fire Salary: $61,963 Hours of Work: Full-time FT Certified Firefighters - $3,000 Signing Incentive on First Check Purpose of Work: This ...

Cobb County Government

Fire Apparatus Technician

Marietta, GA · On-site

$35K - $47K/yr

Maintains familiarity with current National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) Standards. These standard ... Performs routine and complex repairs on trucks, gathers information from apparatus operator reports ...

Cobb County, GA

Fire Apparatus Technician

Marietta, GA · On-site

$27.85 - $44.56/hr

Fire Department Opening Date: 08/21/2026 Closing Date: Continuous Grade Code: 111 Position ... Performs routine and complex repairs on trucks, gathers information from apparatus operator reports ...

Otsego

Fire Captain

Otsego, MN · On-site

IFSAC MN Fire Apparatus Operator certification or ability to obtain within one year of hire date. * Current licensed Firefighter in the State of Minnesota or the ability to become a licensed ...

armorfireservices

Firefighter Engineer

Mount Holly, NC

$32 - $35/hr

As a firefighter/apparatus operator, you will engage in: Emergency Response: Act swiftly and effectively to fire calls, disaster situations, and medical emergencies. This will include the response of ...

Orange County Fire Authority

Fire Captain

Irvine, CA

$106K - $143K/yr

Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator Pump, Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator Aerial, Fire Apparatus, Driver/Operator Tillered, Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator Wildland and Fire Apparatus, Driver/Operator Water ...

Orange County Fire Authority, CA

Fire Captain

Irvine, CA · On-site

$106K - $143K/yr

Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator Pump, Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator Aerial, Fire Apparatus, Driver/Operator Tillered, Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator Wildland and Fire Apparatus, Driver/Operator Water ...

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Fire Apparatus Operator information

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How much do fire apparatus operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for fire apparatus operator in the United States is $19.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fire apparatus operator?

A Fire Apparatus Operator is a firefighter who is specially trained and responsible for driving and operating fire trucks and other emergency vehicles. They ensure that firefighting apparatus, such as engines and ladder trucks, are safely transported to emergency scenes and that all equipment functions properly during operations. In addition to driving, they operate pumps, aerial ladders, and other vehicle-mounted equipment to assist firefighters in extinguishing fires and performing rescues. Fire Apparatus Operators also conduct routine maintenance and safety checks on their vehicles to ensure readiness. This role requires specialized training, strong mechanical skills, and the ability to work effectively in high-pressure situations.

What are some of the unique challenges fire apparatus operators face during emergency response situations?

Fire Apparatus Operators often encounter fast-paced and high-pressure situations where precise vehicle operation and rapid decision-making are crucial. Navigating large emergency vehicles through traffic and tight spaces, while ensuring the safety of both the crew and the public, can be particularly challenging. Additionally, they are responsible for operating and maintaining the vehicle’s specialized equipment, such as pumps and aerial ladders, which requires technical expertise and attention to detail. Collaboration with firefighters and incident commanders is essential to ensure effective response and safety on the scene.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fire apparatus operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Apparatus Operator, you need specialized knowledge of fire suppression, emergency response protocols, and operation of firefighting vehicles, typically acquired through firefighter certification and additional apparatus operator training. Proficiency with pump operation systems, hydraulic controls, and communication radios is essential. Strong decision-making, situational awareness, and teamwork skills set top operators apart in high-pressure environments. These competencies are crucial for ensuring efficient emergency response, safety, and effective coordination during fire and rescue operations.

What is the difference between Fire Apparatus Operator vs Firefighter?

AspectFire Apparatus OperatorFirefighter
CertificationsFire Apparatus Operator certification, EMT or paramedic license often preferredFirefighter certification, EMT or paramedic license usually required
Work EnvironmentOperate fire trucks and equipment, often in station or during emergency responsesRespond to fires, rescue, and emergency medical calls
Primary ResponsibilitiesDriving and maintaining fire apparatus, supporting firefighting operationsExtinguishing fires, rescuing victims, providing medical aid

While both roles are essential in fire services, the Fire Apparatus Operator primarily focuses on operating and maintaining fire trucks, whereas the Firefighter is directly involved in firefighting and rescue operations. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations within fire departments.

More about Fire Apparatus Operator jobs

What states have the most Fire Apparatus Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Fire Apparatus Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Fire Apparatus Operator jobs?

For Fire Apparatus Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Fire Apparatus Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Apparatus Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,204 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Fire Apparatus Operator

Decatur, GA • On-site

CITY OF DECATUR
See more jobs at CITY OF DECATURexternal

$61K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Responds to emergency calls involving fire, hazardous materials, natural and manmade disasters, rescue, and other critical incidents.

  • Operates fire apparatus, drives to and from emergency scenes, controls fire pumps and equipment, and positions apparatus at incident scenes.

  • Provides emergency medical care, extricates victims, and responds to hazardous materials incidents.

Job description

Job Title: Fire Apparatus Operator
Reports to: Fire Officer 

Department: Fire

Salary: $61,963

Hours of Work: Full-time

FT Certified Firefighters - $3,000 Signing Incentive on First Check

Purpose of Work: 

This position operates fire apparatus in support of fire suppression and other emergency response functions.

MAJOR DUTIES

  • Responds to emergency calls involving fire, hazardous materials, natural and manmade disasters, rescue, and other critical incidents; transports firefighting crews to emergency scenes; assumes command until relieved by a superior officer.
  • Operates and controls fire apparatus; drives fire apparatus to and from emergency scenes; operates fire pumps, aerial apparatus, and other equipment; positions apparatus at incident scenes; reads gauges and adjusts controls; sets pump pressure; opens and closes engine valves; determines available flow from water source; flushes and refills pump and booter tanks.
  • Implements actions necessary to save lives and property; extricates victims from structure fires and vehicle accidents; administers emergency medical care; performs structure ventilation duties; responds to hazardous materials incidents.
  • Provides emergency medical care to patients in different settings as certified, including homes, public areas, and accident scenes; assesses patient conditions, obtains vital signs, and determines appropriate treatment plans based on established protocols and guidelines; communicates with dispatchers, partners, other emergency providers, and medical personnel via 2-way radio and telephone regarding sick or injured persons' condition, vitals, and other relevant treatment information; administers medication and therapy or treatment to patients on site or in transit.
  • Inspects apparatus and equipment to ensure that it is in proper working order; performs routine maintenance of equipment as assigned; inspects and maintains hoses and other equipment.
  • Maintains and cleans the station, grounds, and living quarters.
  • Participates in public relations functions with schools, churches, and other organizations.
  • Participates in continuing training and drill activities; provides training to other department personnel as certified.
  • Remains familiar with area streets, geography, and landmarks; learns roads and alternate routes to populated areas; learns fire hydrant locations.
  • Conducts and assists with public safety education, including fire safety and prevention.
  • Fire Apparatus Operator completes required reports of incidents occurring during an assigned shift. Completes hose and hydrant testing.
  • Performs related duties.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

  • Knowledge of modern firefighting techniques and equipment.
  • Knowledge of laws and regulations relating to the control and prevention of fires.
  • Knowledge of department and city policies and procedures, and federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
  • Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs.
  • Knowledge of the capabilities and uses of emergency vehicles and equipment.
  • Skill in operating assigned fire apparatus under emergency and non-emergency conditions.
  • Skilled in the provision of medical care in emergency situations.
  • Skilled in the use of radio/communications equipment.
  • Skilled in planning, organization, and decision making.
  • Skilled in oral and written communication.

COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK

  • The work consists of apparatus operation, fire suppression, rescue, and other emergency response duties. The variety of emergency situations encountered contributes to the complexity of the work.
  • The purpose of this position is to operate fire apparatus in order in protect lives and property through fire suppression activities and the provision of other emergency response services. Successful Fire Apparatus Operator, Fire performance helps ensure the safety of lives and property in the community.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • The work is typically performed while sitting, standing, stooping, walking, bending, or crouching.
  • The employee frequently lifts heavy objects, climbs ladders, uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity, distinguishes between shades of color, and utilizing the sense of smell.
  • The work is typically performed in an office, except while at fire or other emergency scenes. The employee may be exposed to machinery with moving parts, irritating chemicals, extreme temperatures, hazardous situations, and inclement weather.
  • Work requires the use of protective clothing and devices.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age.
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Minimum of four (4) years of related firefighting experience.
  • Must have served as a Driver in a career fire department in a position such as Fire Apparatus Operator, Driver/Engineer, Engine or Quint Operator, or a comparable role requiring a department-issued pumper license or driver certification.
  • Possess a valid State of Georgia driver's license (Class E or F) with an acceptable motor vehicle record (MVR), or have the ability to obtain one by the date of hire if currently licensed in another state.
  • Meet all current requirements established by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training Act, and the Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training Council.
  • Possess, or have the ability to obtain, the following certifications:
  • Georgia Firefighter I
  • Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
  • NPQ Fire Officer I (or equivalent, if applicable)
  • Hazardous Materials Operations (HAZMAT Ops)
  • All federally required National Incident Management System (NIMS) certifications
  • State of Georgia EMS certification, if applicable
  • Must have no felony convictions.


 AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The City of Decatur is committed to having a workforce that reflects diversity at all levels and is an equal opportunity employer. Therefore, qualified applicants are considered for employment, and employees are treated during employment without regard to actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status, familial status, or veteran/military status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.


We do not accept e-mailed resumes as a part of the application process.