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Fire Firefighter Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Emergency Fire and Rescue

Geneseo, NY · On-site

$15.75 - $18.25/hr

EMERGENCY, FIRE AND RESCUE JOBS IN THE NAVY DAMAGE CONTROLMAN Damage Controlmen are the first ... Trained in firefighting, ship stability and chemical, radiological and biological warfare defense ...

Emergency Fire and Rescue

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16.25 - $18.75/hr

EMERGENCY, FIRE AND RESCUE JOBS IN THE NAVY DAMAGE CONTROLMAN Damage Controlmen are the first ... Trained in firefighting, ship stability and chemical, radiological and biological warfare defense ...

Service Manager - Fire Apparatus Refurbishment Center At Firematic Supply Co., we proudly support the firefighters and departments who protect our communities every day. As a family-owned company ...

Service Manager - Fire Apparatus Refurbishment Center At Firematic Supply Co., we proudly support the firefighters and departments who protect our communities every day. As a family-owned company ...

Fire Firefighter information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$13

$22

$35

How much do fire firefighter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for fire firefighter in Rochester, NY is $22.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $26.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges firefighters face during a typical shift and how do they prepare for them?

Firefighters regularly encounter physically demanding and unpredictable situations, from responding to fires and medical emergencies to handling hazardous materials incidents. To prepare, they participate in ongoing training, maintain peak physical fitness, and work closely with their team to ensure coordinated responses. Teamwork, clear communication, and adaptability are essential to overcoming challenges like rapidly changing fire behavior and high-stress environments. Many departments also provide mental health support, recognizing the emotional impact of the job.

Can firefighters make $100,000?

Firefighters can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with overtime, experience, specialized skills, or in high-cost-of-living areas. However, base salaries typically range from $40,000 to $70,000, with higher earnings possible through additional shifts or promotions.

Can a firefighter be on blood thinners?

Firefighters are generally required to be in good health and free of certain medical conditions, including blood clotting disorders. Being on blood thinners can increase bleeding risk during emergencies or physical exertion, which may disqualify a candidate or require medical clearance. Each department's medical standards and evaluations determine eligibility for individuals on blood-thinning medications.

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

To thrive as a Firefighter, you need physical fitness, knowledge of fire safety procedures, emergency medical training, and typically certification from a fire academy. Familiarity with firefighting equipment, rescue tools, and incident command systems like NFPA standards is essential. Quick decision-making, teamwork, and effective communication are critical soft skills in this high-pressure role. These skills ensure the safety of both the public and fellow firefighters while enabling efficient response to emergencies.

What is the difference between Fire Firefighter vs Firefighter?

AspectFire FirefighterFirefighter
Required CertificationsFirefighter Certification, EMT/Paramedic licenseFirefighter Certification, EMT/Paramedic license
Work EnvironmentFire scenes, emergency rescue, fire preventionFire scenes, emergency rescue, fire prevention
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, emergency servicesFire departments, emergency services

Both Fire Firefighters and Firefighters perform similar roles in fire suppression, rescue, and emergency response. The terms are often used interchangeably, but 'Fire Firefighter' may be a less common or regional variation. Both require similar certifications and work in comparable environments within fire departments and emergency services.

What are firefighters?

Firefighters are trained professionals responsible for responding to emergencies such as fires, medical incidents, hazardous material spills, and rescues. Their primary duty is to protect lives, property, and the environment from fire and other dangers. Firefighters also educate the public on fire prevention, conduct safety inspections, and maintain firefighting equipment. They often work in physically demanding and dangerous situations, requiring teamwork, quick decision-making, and specialized training.

Is 30 too old to be a fireman?

Firefighters can typically start their careers at age 18 or older, and many departments do not have an upper age limit as long as candidates meet physical and medical requirements. Being 30 is generally not too old to become a firefighter, and prior experience or fitness levels can be advantageous in the hiring process.

Can an epileptic be a firefighter?

Firefighters must meet medical and physical standards, and epilepsy can be a disqualifying condition depending on severity and control. Candidates with epilepsy typically need medical clearance and may require stable condition and treatment history to qualify for firefighting roles. Each department's policies vary, so individual assessment is necessary.
What are popular job titles related to Fire Firefighter jobs in Rochester, NY? For Fire Firefighter jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Firefighter jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Firefighter jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Fire Firefighter jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Fire Firefighter job openings:
Infographic showing various Fire Firefighter job openings in Rochester, NY as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,726 per year, or $22.9 per hour.
Fire Protection Specialist 1/Trainee 1/Trainee 2 (NY HELPS)

Fire Protection Specialist 1/Trainee 1/Trainee 2 (NY HELPS)

New York State

Rochester, NY

$53K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


New York State rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 178 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 50 rated states


Job description

Duties Description The incumbent of this position will report to the Investigations Branch within the Office of Office of Fire Prevention and Control. Duties include but are not limited to the following: This position will report the assigned Deputy Chief (DC) in the Investigations Branch. Conduct fire/arson investigations.

Prepare technical reports and other documents on findings for court proceedings and may testify as the State's technical expert. Implement fire investigation training curriculum and programs, to include course development and revision as well as course preparation and delivery. Respond to and provide assistance at incidents in response to requests as assigned under the Fire Investigation Technical Assistance Program.

Tasks include but are not limited to scene processing, conducting interviews, collection of evidence, report preparation, attendance at legal proceedings, and other requisite follow up. Physical activity including shoveling, lifting, and traversing uneven surfaces can be expected. Provide assistance to client group and administer various Branch programs including but not limited to; burn injury reporting, arson laboratory improvement program, criminal history inquiries, certification, and various special presentations.

Obtain and maintain certification and perform the duties and responsibilities of a New York State Peace Officer. Respond to emergency incidents as directed. Provide technical assistance to local fire officials as requested.

Service as liaison between State Office of Emergency Management, local fire departments, and regional fire administrators in the development and implementation of local emergency response plans and exercises. Also serve as state agency liaison during actual emergencies. Ensure the state and local fire departments are in compliance with controlling laws, regulations, and best practices.

May assist in the implementation of special projects, such as, training course revisions, conferences and seminar programs, and equipment maintenance programs. Perform technical assistance and emergency response activities. Assist with the communications and meetings with local fire chiefs and fire coordinators and other fire officials as needed.

Assist with monthly and quarterly reports as needed. Significant travel, approximately 60%, often overnight in an assigned geographic location is required. Minimum Qualifications NY HELPS This title is part of the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide Program (NY HELPS).*** To be considered for appointment through NY HELPS, or 55 b/c, candidates must meet the open-competitive minimum qualifications for this position

This title includes a traineeship opportunity and applicants will be appointed to the appropriate level** based on their experience and education. **Fire Protection Specialist 1 level requirements: Fire Protection Specialist Trainee 1 (equated to SG-14): Three years of full-time, paid experience as a firefighter in a fire department, military fire department, or industrial fire brigade OR six years of experience as a volunteer firefighter or firefighter trainer. Experience must be obtained on or after January 1, 2010.

Fire Protection Specialist Trainee 2 (equated to SG-16): Four years of full-time, paid experience as a firefighter in a fire department, military fire department, or industrial fire brigade OR seven years of experience as a volunteer firefighter or firefighter trainer. Experience must be obtained on or after January 1, 2010. Fire Protection Specialist 1, SG-18: Five years of full-time, paid experience as a firefighter in a fire department, military fire department, or industrial fire brigade OR eight years of experience as a volunteer firefighter or firefighter trainer.

You must have completion of the core coursework in all of the following offered by the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services' Office of Fire Prevention and Control, or equivalent, qualifying for certification in: Fire Instructor 1 and Hazardous Materials Technician; AND at least two of the following: Fire Investigator 1, Structural Collapse Rescue Technician Fire Officer 1, Hazardous Materials Advanced Technician, Fire Instructor 2, or certification by the Department of State as a Code Enforcement Official. Substitutions: An associate degree in a related field can substitute for two years of specialized experience; a bachelor's in a related field degree can substitute for four years of experience; a master's degree in a related field can substitute for five years of experience; and a doctorate in a related field can substitute for six years of experience. Dependent upon qualifications, if appointed as a trainee, successful completion of a one-year or two-year traineeship leads to appointment as a Fire Protection Specialist 1, SG-18.

Successful completion of a qualifying pre-employment physical examination, background check, and drug testing may be required for permanent appointment. Details regarding these exam requirements can be found under the Fire Protection Specialist title at: https://www.cs.ny.gov/ehs/forms.cfm REASSIGNMENT/TRANSFER Current New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services employee with one year or more permanent, contingent-permanent or 55b/c service as a Fire Protection Specialist 1 and are interested in reassignment; OR are a current New York State employee with one year or more of permanent, contingent-permanent, or 55b/c service as a Fire & Safety Representative and eligible for transfer under Section 70.1 of the Civil Service Law. NOTE: Employees on the Civil Service eligible list will be considered

If you are on the eligible list and not reachable, you may be eligible for another appointment method. You are encouraged to access GOT-IT on the Career Mobility website (careermobilityoffice.cs.ny.gov/cmo) to determine transfer eligibility. Additional Comments NOTE: Support of operations during times of emergency and disaster from State Emergency Operations Center (EOC), state field offices and/or local deployments may be required, which would result in a change and/or increase in working hours, locations and/or duties

NOTE ON TELECOMMUTING: Employees are required to apply and obtain approval through management to telecommute according to the agency's Telecommuting Program Guidelines. ***This title is part of the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide Program (NY HELPS). For the duration of the NY HELPS Program, this title may be filled via a non-competitive appointment, which means no examination is required but all candidates must meet the minimum qualifications of the title for which they apply.

At a future date, it is expected employees hired under NY HELPS will have their non-competitive employment status converted to competitive status, without having to compete in an examination. Employees will then be afforded with all of the same rights and privileges of competitive class employees of New York State. While serving permanently in an NY HELPS title, employees may take part in any promotion examination for which they are qualified.

The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with the NYS Human Rights Law, DHSES does not discriminate based upon age, race, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, military or veteran status, sex, disability (including pregnancy-related conditions), predisposing genetic characteristics, familial status, marital status or status as a victim of domestic violence, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. DHSES is committed to fostering diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in the workplace and is committed to providing our programs and services without discrimination.

In support of Executive Order 31, all qualified individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.


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