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Fire Guard Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Security Guard Armed

Columbia, SC

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

... fire drills, lockdown drills, and other safety drills. As requested, assist with emergency ... Armed security guards shall report infractions to a school administrator. Armed security guards may ...

Security Guard Armed

Columbia, SC · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

... fire drills, lockdown drills, and other safety drills. As requested, assist with emergency ... Armed security guards shall report infractions to a school administrator. Armed security guards may ...

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Fire Guard information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$29.1K

$90.1K

$179.9K

How much do fire guard jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire guard in Columbia, SC is $90,059.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,100.00 and $113,800.00 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 popular job titles related to Fire Guard jobs in Columbia, SC?

For Fire Guard jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Fire Guard job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,059 per year, or $43.3 per hour.

Security Guard

Fort Jackson, SC


US Department of the Army
National Security • 10K+ employees

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

People enjoy working here

Paid breaks

Learn new skills


$45K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: The U.S. Army Installation Management Command (IMCOM) handles the day-to-day operations of Army installations.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 in this document.
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.Employment Type: OTHER

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About US Army

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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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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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