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Fire Science Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Fire Science Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13.9K

$60.5K

$103.5K

How much do fire science instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire science instructor in Chicago, IL is $60,484.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,800.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Fire Science Instructors when teaching both new recruits and experienced firefighters?

Fire Science Instructors often encounter the challenge of balancing curriculum to meet the needs of both entry-level students and seasoned professionals seeking advanced training. They must deliver complex, up-to-date information on fire behavior, safety protocols, and emergency response in a way that is engaging and accessible for all experience levels. Additionally, instructors must stay current with evolving technologies and regulations, adapting lesson plans accordingly. Managing hands-on training safely while fostering teamwork and critical thinking is another key aspect of the role.

What are Fire Science Instructors?

Fire Science Instructors are educators who teach courses related to fire prevention, firefighting techniques, emergency response, and fire safety. They often have experience as firefighters or in related emergency services and use that background to train future firefighters, emergency responders, and safety personnel. Fire Science Instructors work in community colleges, technical schools, fire academies, and sometimes universities. They develop lesson plans, conduct practical training, and evaluate student performance to ensure readiness for real-world emergencies.

What is the difference between Fire Science Instructor vs Firefighter?

AspectFire Science InstructorFirefighter
CredentialsFire science degree, certifications in firefighting and teachingFirefighter certification, EMT/paramedic licenses
Work EnvironmentClassrooms, training facilities, some on-site fire trainingFire scenes, emergency response, fire stations
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, fire academies, training centersFire departments, emergency services

While both roles involve firefighting knowledge, a Fire Science Instructor primarily teaches and trains future firefighters in classrooms and training facilities, requiring educational credentials. In contrast, a Firefighter responds directly to emergencies in the field, focusing on fire suppression and rescue operations. The two careers share certifications but differ in work environment and daily responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Fire Science Instructor, you typically need extensive experience in firefighting or emergency services, a relevant degree in fire science or a related field, and appropriate instructor certifications such as Fire Instructor I/II. Familiarity with learning management systems, fire simulation software, and modern firefighting equipment is important for effective teaching. Excellent communication, patience, and the ability to engage and motivate students are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure instructors can deliver accurate, up-to-date training that prepares future firefighters for real-world challenges.
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Fire Science Instructor jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Fire Science Instructor job openings:
Infographic showing various Fire Science Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, and 45% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,484 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

EMS Educator- Casual Rotating

Catherine Gratz Griffin LFH

Lake Forest, IL โ€ข On-site

Part-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Description

The EMS Educator I reflect the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization's Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standardsย 

Responsibilities:

  • Demonstrates knowledge of current EMS Act and IDPH Rules & Regulations.
  • Assists the EMS Administrator/System Coordinator with special projects as directed.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of current National EMS Education Guidelines, CoAEMSP, CAAHEP, and National Registry.
  • Abides by and enforces all EMS System policies and procedures.
  • Is responsible for coordinating the respective EMS course to include classroom and lab instruction, scheduling the necessary number of instructors per course as appropriate, supervision of students, and evaluation of learning. Instructors may be internal and/or external staff.
  • Is responsible for coordinating communications between the Resource Hospital and EMS System
  • Providers in regards to the respective EMS course.
  • In collaboration with the EMS Administrator/System Coordinator, submits requests for approval of
  • educational materials, equipment, supplies, and additional faculty for each class taught; purchase requisitions for equipment needed for the course, and any other incurred costs.
  • Monitors student and EMS Provider evaluations, and reports findings to EMS Administrator/System Coordinator.
  • Updates all preceptors with the latest information on curriculum, science guidelines, policies and procedures, and training bulletins.
  • Is available for all IDPH-EMS Administrative reviews to answer any questions from reviews. If problems are identified the educator will assist the EMS Administrator/System Coordinator in submitting a written plan of corrective action.
  • Is available on-site, by phone or pager throughout the course with EMS Administrator/System Coordinator as back up.
  • Communicates appropriately and clearly to physicians, nurses, EMS/Trauma Staff, pre-hospital providers, students and staff of other hospital units in a timely manner as related to the EMS course.
  • Attends all EMS System, Regional and State meetings assigned by the EMS Administrator/System Coordinator.
  • Acts as a liaison between the EMS Providers and the EMS Office for the EMS course. Feedback will be communicated in a timely manner to the respective EMS Administrator/System Coordinator.
  • Assists in performance improvement projects for EMS to include case reviews at the direction of EMS Administrator/System Coordinator.
  • Organizes activities of EMS personnel within the hospital at the direction of EMS Administrator/System Coordinator. Educates hospital staff and EMS personnel regarding emergency services.
  • Performs other related tasks and services to support the EMS function. Participates in disaster drills within hospital and local fire departments.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required

  • BLS Certification through American Heart Association
  • Registered Nursing license issued by the State of Illinois OR Current EMT P license without restrictions (National Registry Preferred)
  • Three years EMS or ECRN experience
  • ย One year teaching experience
  • EMS course coordination experience (e.g., EMT, Paramedic, TNS)
  • Familiarity with NEMSIS data requirements and EMS electronic patient care reporting

Preferred

  • Bachelor or Master's degree
  • IDPH Lead Instructor
  • ACLS, PALS/PEPP/ENPC, and ITLS/PHTLS instructor
  • Experience using ESO electronic patient care reporting system
  • National Certification in area of specialty

Equal Opportunity

Northwestern Medicine is an equal opportunity employer (disability, VETS) and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.

Background Check

Northwestern Medicine conducts a background check that includes criminal history on newly hired team members and, at times, internal transfers. If you are offered a position with us, you will be required to complete an authorization and disclosure form that gives Northwestern Medicine permission to run the background check.ย  Results are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and we follow all local, state, and federal laws, including the Illinois Health Care Worker Background Check Act.

Artificial Intelligence Disclosure

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.ย 

Benefits

We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Please visit ourย Benefitsย section to learn more.

Sign-on Bonus Eligibility (if sign-on bonus offered for position):ย Internal employees and rehires who left Northwestern Medicine within 1 year are not eligible for the sign on bonus. Exception: New graduate internal employees seeking their first licensed clinical position at NM may be eligible depending upon the job family.ย 

Qualifications:

Required

  • BLS Certification through American Heart Association
  • Registered Nursing license issued by the State of Illinois OR Current EMT P license without restrictions (National Registry Preferred)
  • Three years EMS or ECRN experience
  • ย One year teaching experience
  • EMS course coordination experience (e.g., EMT, Paramedic, TNS)
  • Familiarity with NEMSIS data requirements and EMS electronic patient care reporting

Preferred

  • Bachelor or Master's degree
  • IDPH Lead Instructor
  • ACLS, PALS/PEPP/ENPC, and ITLS/PHTLS instructor
  • Experience using ESO electronic patient care reporting system
  • National Certification in area of specialty
Education:Licensed Patient Care GiverEmployment Type: Part-time