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Fire Instructor Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Safety Trainer

Columbia, SC · On-site

$74K - $97K/yr

Support VelocityEHS data entry and reporting; track open corrective actions and overdue items. * Assist with routine inspections of eyewash stations, fire extinguishers, PPE, and safety signage.

Notifies appropriate persons in regard to unsafe conditions (electrical, fire, chemical, equipment ... Communicates with clinical instructors and/or department heads as necessary. Facilitates medical ...

Notifies appropriate persons in regard to unsafe conditions (electrical, fire, chemical, equipment ... Communicates with clinical instructors and/or department heads as necessary. Facilitates medical ...

Fire Instructor information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$8

$22

$44

How much do fire instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for fire instructor in Columbia, SC is $22.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.25 and $27.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fire instructor?

Fire Instructors are professionals who teach and train firefighters and other emergency responders in fire safety, firefighting techniques, rescue operations, and emergency procedures. They develop lesson plans, conduct classroom and hands-on training sessions, and ensure that all trainees understand safety protocols and best practices. Fire Instructors also evaluate trainees’ performance and keep up to date with the latest industry standards and firefighting technology.

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

To thrive as a Fire Instructor, you need extensive firefighting experience, knowledge of fire science, and typically certifications such as Fire Instructor I or II. Familiarity with training simulators, instructional technology, and learning management systems is often required. Strong communication, leadership, and adaptability help engage diverse trainees and address dynamic situations. These skills ensure effective knowledge transfer, safety, and preparedness in high-risk emergency response environments.

What are some common challenges faced by fire instructors when training new recruits?

Fire Instructors often encounter challenges such as effectively communicating complex firefighting techniques to recruits with varying levels of experience and learning styles. Ensuring safety during live-fire training scenarios is another significant concern, requiring strict adherence to protocols and close supervision. Additionally, keeping training sessions engaging and realistic while meeting certification standards can be demanding. Building teamwork and trust among recruits is also a key focus, as these skills are critical in emergency situations.

What is the difference between Fire Instructor vs Firefighter?

AspectFire InstructorFirefighter
CertificationsFire Instructor Certification, CPR, First AidFirefighter Certification, EMT/Paramedic
Work EnvironmentTraining facilities, classrooms, fire academiesFire scenes, emergency response, fire stations
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, training academies, safety organizationsFire departments, emergency services, rescue teams

Fire Instructors focus on training and educating firefighters and the public, working mainly in classrooms and training facilities. Firefighters respond to emergencies, fighting fires and rescuing people at fire scenes. While both roles require fire safety certifications, their work environments and daily tasks differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Fire Instructor jobs in Columbia, SC?

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

Infographic showing various Fire Instructor job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,625 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Fire Safety Off IV - 60011778 - App 24

State of South Carolina

Columbia, SC • On-site

$58K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


State Of South Carolina rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Responsibilities Plans, schedules and supervises fire protection activities. Position assumes duties and responsibilities of Assistant Chief in his/her absence. Directs, operates and maintains aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) support and structural vehicles.

Duties include firefighting, control and extinguishment aircraft and structural fires, aircraft emergencies: pinning, safing, shutdown, safety and rescue/egress operations. Directs and performs inspection and operation of the aircraft arresting system. Directs and performs as team leader for crash rescue, structural, medical, confined spaces, hazardous materials, vehicular and other emergency operations.

Assumes operational duties of Assistant Chief in his/her absence. Minimum and Additional Requirements A high school diploma and progressively responsible experience in the fire service. Must have a valid state driver's license and be able to possess and maintain a government driver's license.

Must meet NFPA-1582 physical standards with the ability to wear self-contained breathing apparatus. Additional Comments Must possess International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) of Pro-Board certifications, or verifiable equivalents to include Fire Safety Officer II, Fire Instructor II, Fire Inspector II, ICS 300/400, Incident Safety Officer, Airport Firefighter, Hazardous Material Incident Command, and Emergency Medical Responder Certifications. Must possess the ability to provide guidance to a diverse subordinate staff.

Must be able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance to access the LAN and use computer-based training programs, and to develop and enforce Fire Department Standard Operational Guidelines, (SOG's) and operational instructions for staff. Must be able to manage an operation that provides 24/7 fire coverage for three, 8 person shifts, each working 48 on 96 off with an average 56-hour workweek. A resume will not be accepted in lieu of an online South Carolina State Employment Application.

Only those applicants chosen for interview will be notified of job filled status. Note: Applicants indicating college credit, degree(s) or specialized training on the application shall provide an official copy of transcripts upon notification of selection for hire. This serves as verification of credentials listed on the application.


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About State of South Carolina

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

State of South Carolina is not a typical corporation, but the governing body of the US state of South Carolina, located in the capital city of Columbia. Its industry focuses on public administration, providing key essential services to ensure the efficient functioning of the state. These services range from public safety and environment protection to education, healthcare, and economic development. The state was founded in 1788, grounded in democratic principles meant to support the overall well-being of its citizenry. Its core values revolve around service, integrity, accountability, and transparency. The mission of the State of South Carolina is to improve the quality of life for all its people, with a focus on education advancement, economic growth, and improved healthcare.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, SC, US

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