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Fire Science Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Posting Details Posting Summary Posting Number S00492P Position Title Fire Science Adjunct Position Type Adjunct Faculty Department Health Careers Essential Function Directly responsible to the ...

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Fire Science information

See Illinois salary details

$25.7K

$60.7K

$96.9K

How much do fire science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire science in Illinois is $60,724.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $69,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is fire science?

Fire science is the study of the behavior, spread, and control of fire. It combines principles from chemistry, physics, engineering, and environmental science to understand how fires start, how they can be prevented, and how they are extinguished. Professionals in fire science often work in firefighting, fire investigation, fire prevention, and safety education. The field also covers topics like fire safety codes, emergency management, and hazardous materials handling.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in fire science?

To thrive in Fire Science, you need a solid understanding of fire behavior, emergency response procedures, and safety regulations, typically supported by a degree in fire science or a related certification. Familiarity with fire suppression equipment, incident command systems, and hazardous materials protocols is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this field. These skills are important to ensure effective emergency response, minimize risks, and protect lives and property during fire-related incidents.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in fire science roles, and how can I prepare for them?

Professionals in fire science often encounter physically demanding environments, high-stress emergency situations, and the need to make rapid, informed decisions. Additionally, staying updated on evolving fire safety regulations and technology is crucial. To prepare, you should focus on building both your physical fitness and technical knowledge, develop strong communication skills for effective teamwork, and pursue ongoing education or certifications to remain current in the field.

Is a fire science degree worth it?

A fire science degree provides foundational knowledge in fire behavior, safety protocols, and emergency response, which can enhance job prospects in firefighting, fire inspection, and emergency management. Many roles also require certifications such as Firefighter I and II, and practical experience is highly valued. The degree can improve advancement opportunities and earning potential in the fire service industry.

What careers can you get with a fire science degree?

A fire science degree prepares individuals for careers such as firefighter, fire inspector, fire investigator, emergency management director, and fire safety officer. These roles often require knowledge of fire behavior, safety protocols, and may require certifications like EMT or fire service training, with work environments including fire departments, safety agencies, and emergency response teams.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Fire Science jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Fire Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Fire Science job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,724 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

Adjunct - Fire Science

Rock Valley College

Rockford, IL • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Position Type:
Adjunct/Adjunct Faculty
Date Posted:
8/10/2026
Location:
Rock Valley College
Position Title: Adjunct (Fire Science)
Department: Fire Science (FRE)
Division: Health Sciences
Employee Status: Adjunct (Fall, Spring, and/or Summer Semesters)
Group: NA
Grade: Adjunct
FLSA: Non-Exempt
ICCB Classification: Teaching
Issued: 02/2025
Rock Valley College does not offer sponsorship for employment-based visas for this position now or in the future. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship.
Reporting Relationships
Reports to: Dean of Health Sciences
Supervision Exercised: None
Job Summary
Reporting to the Dean, Adjunct Faculty will develop course syllabi and design lessons, activities, assignments, and assessments that accommodate diverse learning styles, ensuring students achieve the course objectives and outcomes. They will apply learner-centered teaching principles to engage and inspire students, encouraging active participation throughout the educational experience. Adjunct Faculty are also responsible for evaluating student performance, maintaining accurate and timely records, and ensuring the completion of attendance verifications, academic progress reports, and final course grades.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Additional related duties may be assigned.
  • Deliver instruction for Fire Science courses, ensuring that content is accessible and engaging.
  • Utilize Rock Valley College's designated Learning Management System (LMS) for grading, assignments, student communication, and record-keeping.
  • Develop and organize course content, assigning relevant coursework that aligns with learning objectives.
  • Select and implement appropriate textbooks and teaching materials, while adhering to scheduled class times.
  • Offer availability for student interaction, including at least one hour of office hours weekly per 3-credit-hour course.
  • Maintain and manage necessary instructional materials and equipment, as needed.
  • Participate in the assessment of student learning and progress to enhance course effectiveness.
  • Accurately track and maintain student records, assess student performance, and submit grades in a timely manner.
  • Prepare and submit required reports regarding course/class performance as requested.
  • Attend required faculty, division, and in-service training meetings to stay aligned with departmental and institutional goals.
  • Stay current with the latest research, journals, and best practices in the field of developmental mathematics.
  • Adhere to all applicable policies, including the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), as well as other relevant laws and regulations governing higher education at Rock Valley College.
  • Commitment to the community college mission.
  • Ability to meet physical ability standards necessary to effectively educate Fire Science students.

Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Flexibility in work schedule is necessary. Interest in serving a diverse student population is essential.
  • Associates Degree in Fire Science or Bachelor's Degree in Related Field
  • 5 years or more fire experience and
  • IL OSFM FF2 or Basic Operations Firefighter certification
  • Lead Instructor: IL OSFM Instructor II Certificate
  • Supporting Instructor: IL OSFM Instructor I Certificate

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Fire Science or related field
  • OSFM Instructor II certification
  • Current or previous IDPH EMS licensure (EMT or paramedic)
  • Prior community college and/or fire service teaching experience
  • OSFM Fire Officer I Certification

Work Environment
While performing the duties of this job, the employee works both indoors and outdoors. Standard classroom equipment and software are utilized. Standard fire service activities are conducted on-campus and at satellite locations.
Physical Demands
Physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job:
  • Strength: Ability to lift and carry heavy objects (e.g., equipment, hoses, ladders, victims).
  • Endurance: Ability to perform sustained physical activity and work for extended periods.
  • Agility and Mobility: Ability to climb ladders and stairs, traverse uneven terrain, crawl through confined spaces, and maintain balance in challenging environments.
  • Sensory Abilities: Reliance on sight, hearing, smell, and touch to assess situations, maintain safety, and make critical decisions.