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Fire Guard Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Security

Aurora, IL · On-site

$17 - $35/hr

Security Guard Job Summary: The Security Guard is responsible for maintaining a safe and secure ... Coordinate with local law enforcement, fire departments, or emergency services when necessary

Security

Naperville, IL · On-site

$17 - $35/hr

Security Guard Job Summary: The Security Guard is responsible for maintaining a safe and secure ... Coordinate with local law enforcement, fire departments, or emergency services when necessary

Showing results 41-60

Fire Guard information

See Illinois salary details

$30.5K

$94.3K

$188.5K

How much do fire guard jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire guard in Illinois is $94,331.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,700.00 and $119,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fire guard?

Fire Guards are trained individuals responsible for preventing and responding to fire hazards in buildings, construction sites, and other premises. Their duties typically include monitoring areas for potential fire risks, ensuring fire exits and equipment are accessible, and taking immediate action in the event of a fire emergency. Fire Guards are often required by local laws or regulations in places where the risk of fire is heightened, such as during construction or when fire protection systems are out of service. They must be familiar with fire safety protocols and often need to hold a valid certification or license, depending on the jurisdiction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fire guard?

To thrive as a Fire Guard, you need a solid understanding of fire safety protocols, hazard identification, and typically a Fire Guard Certificate of Fitness (such as FDNY F-01 or F-02) for legal compliance. Familiarity with fire alarm panels, emergency communication systems, and incident reporting tools is often required. Attention to detail, vigilance, and effective communication are essential soft skills for identifying risks and coordinating during emergencies. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining safety, preventing fire hazards, and ensuring rapid response in emergency situations.

What are some common challenges fire guards face during their shifts, and how can they prepare for them?

Fire Guards often face challenges such as staying alert during long, overnight shifts, effectively communicating with building occupants during emergencies, and identifying potential fire hazards in dynamic environments. To prepare, it's important to develop strong observational skills, remain up-to-date with fire safety protocols, and participate in regular drills or training sessions. Proactively communicating with team members and maintaining detailed logs can also help Fire Guards respond quickly and efficiently when issues arise.

What is the difference between Fire Guard vs Fire Watch?

AspectFire GuardFire Watch
CertificationsFire Guard CertificationFire Watch Certification
Work EnvironmentBuildings, industrial sites, eventsConstruction sites, areas with fire hazards
Employer & Industry UsageProperty management, security firmsConstruction, industrial projects
Primary RoleMonitoring fire safety, preventing firesMonitoring for fire hazards during work or repairs

Fire Guard and Fire Watch roles both involve fire safety but differ mainly in scope and environment. Fire Guards typically work in buildings or events to prevent fires, while Fire Watches are often on construction sites or during repairs to monitor fire hazards. Certifications are similar, but the specific training and duties vary based on the setting.

How much do fire guards make?

Fire guards in general earn an average hourly wage of around $15 to $20, with annual salaries typically ranging from $30,000 to $45,000 depending on experience, certifications, and work environment. In some cases, overtime and night shifts can increase total earnings, especially in security or industrial settings.

What do fire guards do?

Fire guards are responsible for monitoring and protecting properties from fire hazards, ensuring fire safety protocols are followed, and responding quickly to fire emergencies. They often conduct safety inspections, use fire extinguishers, and may hold certifications such as a fire guard license. Their work environment typically includes construction sites, industrial facilities, or event venues, and they may work irregular hours or shifts.

What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Guard jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Fire Guard jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Fire Guard job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $94,331 per year, or $45.4 per hour.

Security Guard with Security Clearance

Department of the Army

Rock Island, IL • On-site

$15.25 - $18.75/hr

Other

PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


United States Army rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 495 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Duties * Perform security guard duties in accordance with appropriate regulations to detect and prevent theft, damage, accident, trespass, sabotage and espionage. * Enforce the security regulations of the installation. * Control access of vehicles and pedestrians to installation. * Verify identification through use of identification cards, badges, biometrics automated records, verbal questioning, and other means. * Admit persons, denies entry or arranges for escorts, as appropriate. * Conduct vehicle searches and inspections. * Conduct foot or vehicle patrol of perimeters, roadways, parking and other high traffic areas. Requirements Conditions of employment * Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation. * This position requires the incumbent be able to obtain and maintain a determination of eligibility for a Secret security clearance or access for the duration of employment. * Shift work is required, or a change in work shift may be necessary. Hours of work encompass fluctuating tours of duty to include evenings, nights, weekends and holidays. * Position may be designated as Mission Essential depending on location. * Overtime may be required as directed and is subject to recall for periods of emergency overtime. * Incumbent must undergo and pass annual medical exams of physical, emotional and mental stability. * In accordance with Army Regulation (AR) 190-56, must meet the requirements of Individual Reliability Program. * This is a drug testing designated position. Incumbent agrees to submit to a mandatory command directed urinalysis on a recurring basis. * Incumbent is required to maintain physical conditioning and pass an annual Physical Agility Test (PAT) as outlined in AR 190-56. * Incumbent must be proficient in the use of assigned firearms/weapons, pass an initial qualification, and must qualify semi-annually thereafter in the use of assigned firearms/weapons. * Incumbent must successfully complete security guard training. * Incumbent must successfully complete and maintain current required certifications in CPR techniques and First Aid. May act as a first responder in a medical emergency. * Incumbent must be able to obtain and sustain state certification for operating the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) terminals. * Incumbent must obtain and maintain applicable certifications in operating various electronic equipment and sensors. * Incumbent must wear the prescribed Department of Army Security Guard (DASG) uniform IAW AR 190-56; must maintain a high state of appearance and hygiene. * The duties and training require for the employee to carry and deploy a riot baton, carry a protective shield and employ non-lethal ammunitions if necessary. * Incumbent is required to wear chemical protection masks, gloves, and other protective equipment, and may be required to be certified in the use of aerosol irritants and baton. * Incumbent must not have any medical condition that precludes the wearing of a chemical protective mask and over garments. * Incumbent must be fully qualified to operate a government vehicle. Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license. * Incumbent must meet the requirements under the Lautenberg Amendment/Domestic Violence Misdemeanor Amendment to the Gun Control Act of 1968. Qualifications ****This is an open continuous announcement. We accept applications on an ongoing basis. Applications will be reviewed bi-weekly and referred for selection as vacancies occur within the organization**** Recruitment and relocation incentives may be authorized. Salary negotiations for those candidates who are new to Federal service or have a break in service may be authorized. Credit for prior non-Federal work experience and certain military service for determining annual leave accrual rate may be authorized. Who May Apply: US Citizens In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is . Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience which includes: 1) Working with a Federal, State, municipal, local, or private protective organization that involved the protection of property against such hazards as fire, theft, damage, accident, or trespass; or 2) Maintaining order and protecting life. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the next lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-05). Such experience must have provided a knowledge of protective systems and techniques. Acceptable experience includes service in the Armed Services or Coast Guard that involved the performance of guard duties on a regular or intermittent basis. Education Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. For this job, you must meet the qualification requirement using experience alone -- no substitution of education for experience is permitted. Additional information * Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration. * You will be required to provide proof of U.S. Citizenship. * One year trial/probationary period may be required. * Direct Deposit of Pay is required. * Selection is subject to restrictions resulting from Department of Defense referral system for displaced employees. * If you have retired from federal service and you are interested in employment as a reemployed annuitant, see the information in the information sheet. * This is a Security & Intelligence Career Field position. * Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement. * When you perform a Civilian Permanent Change of Station (PCS) with the government, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) considers the majority of your entitlements to be taxable. Visit for more information. * Permanent Change of Station (PCS) allowances may be authorized, subject to the provisions of the Joint Travel Regulations and an agency determination that a PCS move is in the Government Interest. * Employee shifts are based on mission requirements that are identified after certification requirements for the position are met. Shifts are not negotiated during the hiring process. * You can visit the following website to find the salary amounts based on locality. https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/salaries-wages/2026/general-schedule/

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Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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