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Fire Service Civilian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The fundamental responsibility of a Deputy Fire Marshal is to function in Fire Inspections, Fire ... Civilian employees accumulate vacation at the following rates: * Less than 6 years of service - two ...

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Fire Service Civilian information

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$12

$23

$39

How much do fire service civilian jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for fire service civilian in the United States is $23.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Fire Service Civilians working alongside operational firefighters?

Fire Service Civilians often work in roles such as administration, logistics, communications, and fire prevention, collaborating closely with emergency response teams. A common challenge is adapting to the fast-paced, high-stakes environment, especially during emergency situations where priorities can shift quickly. Civilians must be flexible, communicate effectively across departments, and remain calm under pressure. Building a strong understanding of fire service protocols and maintaining clear lines of communication with operational staff helps ensure smooth teamwork and supports overall public safety.

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

To thrive as a Fire Service Civilian, you need strong organizational, administrative, and communication skills, typically supported by relevant experience or a degree in public administration, business, or a related field. Familiarity with fire service software systems, data management tools, and office applications is often required, and certifications such as ICS (Incident Command System) or emergency management may be beneficial. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to work collaboratively with uniformed staff help civilians excel in this environment. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring efficient fire department operations and supporting public safety objectives.

What are Fire Service Civilians?

Fire Service Civilians are non-uniformed employees who work within fire departments to support their operations. They are not firefighters but instead handle essential administrative, technical, and support roles such as dispatching, fire prevention education, clerical work, equipment maintenance, and more. Their work allows uniformed firefighters to focus on emergency response and public safety. Fire Service Civilians play a critical role in ensuring that the department runs smoothly and effectively. They may also assist with budgeting, human resources, or community outreach depending on their specific position.

What is the difference between Fire Service Civilian vs Firefighter?

AspectFire Service CivilianFirefighter
Required CertificationsEmergency Medical Technician (EMT), Fire Service CertificationFirefighter Certification, EMT certification often required
Work EnvironmentAdministrative, support roles within fire departmentsActive emergency response, fire suppression, rescue operations
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, emergency servicesFire departments, emergency response agencies
Job ResponsibilitiesAdministrative tasks, equipment maintenance, dispatchingResponding to fires, rescues, medical emergencies

In summary, Fire Service Civilians primarily handle administrative and support roles within fire departments, while Firefighters are actively involved in emergency response and fire suppression. Both roles may require similar certifications like EMTs, but their daily duties and work environments differ significantly.

More about Fire Service Civilian jobs
What cities are hiring for Fire Service Civilian jobs? Cities with the most Fire Service Civilian job openings:
What states have the most Fire Service Civilian jobs? States with the most job openings for Fire Service Civilian jobs include:
Infographic showing various Fire Service Civilian job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,911 per year, or $23 per hour.
FIRE PROTECTION SPECIALIST

$61K/yr

Other

Posted 27 days ago


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 518 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

This is a public notice flyer to notify interested applicants of anticipated vacancies. Applications will not be accepted through this flyer. Interested applicants must follow the directions in the "How to Apply" section of this flyer to be considered. There may or may not be actual vacancies filled from this flyer. Notice of Result letters will not be sent to applicants who respond to this flyer.
Qualifications:Your resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-08 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following: Evaluating and recommending fire safety and prevention policies and procedures; developing and implementing training programs for military and civilian personnel; maintaining records, reports and statistical fire prevention data; AND instructing inspectors regarding the building inspection processes.
Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0000/fire-protection-and-prevention-series-0081/
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.
**ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:
You will be required to obtain and maintain current FIREFIGHTER certifications: Fire Inspector I and II, Fire Instructor I, Firefighter I and Firefighter II by the Department of Defense (DoD), International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) or ProBoard.
You will be required to obtain and maintain current FIREFIGHTER certifications: Hazardous Materials Operations by the Department of Defense (DoD), International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) or ProBoard.
You must possess a current National Registry or State Certification as Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).Education:This job does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER

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