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Fire Watch Jobs in Rutland, VT (NOW HIRING)

Fire Watch information

See Rutland, VT salary details

$31.8K

$77.9K

$118.8K

How much do fire watch jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire watch in Rutland, VT is $77,883.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,500.00 and $94,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fire watch?

The job of a fire watch professional is to monitor an area for a possible emergency. These roles are found anywhere there is a potential fire hazard, such as in welding or a shipyard, or in the absence of a sufficient emergency alert system. The job of a professional in welding is to monitor soldering or activities to ensure no smoldering fires break out. Other duties of someone in this role are to alert or notify emergency professionals if necessary, communicate with team members, and facilitate public or workplace safety. The qualifications you need to get a fire watch job vary, but specialized training may be required. Fire watch is subject to federal regulations through OSHA.

What are the duties and responsibilities of a fire watch?

Fire Watch personnel are responsible for monitoring areas where hot work, such as welding or cutting, is being performed to prevent fires. Their main duties include identifying potential fire hazards, ensuring fire extinguishing equipment is available, maintaining a clear evacuation route, and sounding the alarm or taking action if a fire occurs. They must stay vigilant throughout their shift and cannot perform other tasks during their watch. Fire Watch is often required by safety regulations in environments with increased fire risk.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fire watch, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Watch, you need a strong understanding of fire safety procedures, hazard identification, and often a valid occupational safety certification such as OSHA. Familiarity with fire suppression equipment, alarm systems, and standard reporting tools is typically required. Attention to detail, vigilance, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are important to ensure rapid response to fire hazards, maintain workplace safety, and prevent accidents in high-risk environments.

What are the most common challenges faced by fire watch personnel on construction sites, and how can they be addressed?

Fire Watch personnel on construction sites often face challenges such as staying alert during long shifts, working in hazardous or changing environments, and effectively communicating with other site workers. To address these challenges, it's important to take scheduled breaks, use checklists to ensure thorough inspections, and participate in regular safety briefings. Building strong communication with the construction team helps ensure that any fire hazards are reported and resolved quickly, maintaining a safe work environment for everyone.

What is the difference between Fire Watch vs Fire Extinguisher Technician?

AspectFire WatchFire Extinguisher Technician
CertificationsOSHA, Fire Watch trainingFire Extinguisher, OSHA, possibly NFPA certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial areas, during hot workFire safety inspections, extinguisher maintenance, service centers
Employer & IndustryConstruction companies, industrial facilitiesFire safety service companies, maintenance providers

Fire Watch and Fire Extinguisher Technician roles both involve fire safety but differ in focus. Fire Watch primarily monitors for fire hazards during construction or hot work, requiring OSHA and fire watch training. Fire Extinguisher Technicians inspect, maintain, and refill fire extinguishers, often needing NFPA certifications. While both roles serve fire safety, Fire Watch is more about supervision during specific activities, whereas Fire Extinguisher Technicians focus on equipment maintenance.

Are fire watch jobs hard to get?

Fire watch jobs are generally accessible but often require specific training, certifications, and adherence to safety protocols. Employers may prefer candidates with relevant experience or knowledge of fire safety procedures, which can influence the ease of obtaining such positions.

Do fire watch jobs still exist?

Fire watch jobs are still available and involve monitoring for fire hazards in construction sites, industrial facilities, or during maintenance work. These roles typically require safety training, fire extinguisher knowledge, and adherence to OSHA regulations. They are often temporary and scheduled around specific projects or inspections.

How do I get a job as a fire watch?

To get a fire watch job, candidates typically need to complete a fire watch training course and obtain any required certifications, such as OSHA or fire safety training. Employers often look for good observation skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work overnight or in hazardous environments. Prior experience in safety or construction sites can also improve chances of employment.

What are popular job titles related to Fire Watch jobs in Rutland, VT?

For Fire Watch jobs in Rutland, VT, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Rutland, VT are hiring for Fire Watch jobs?

Cities near Rutland, VT with the most Fire Watch job openings:

Infographic showing various Fire Watch job openings in Rutland, VT 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 $77,883 per year, or $37.4 per hour.

Temporary Bread Loaf Watchperson

Ripton, VT • On-site


Middlebury College
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 501 - 1,000 employees

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

365th of 623 rated colleges and universities

Good employer


$19.92 - $23.60/hr

Part-time, Temporary

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Bread Loaf Watchperson

The Bread Loaf Watchperson patrols Bread Loaf Campus facilities and equipment checking fire safety equipment, building security, and building equipment according to a prescribed route and schedule. Serves as liaison between Bread Loaf campus and the Department of Public Safety.

This is a part time, non benefited hourly position. The hourly range for the position is $19.92 - $23.60 per hour. Responsibilities include:

  • Maintains radio and/or telephone contact with Department of Public Safety dispatch throughout the watch schedule. Patrols campus buildings and grounds per prescribed route and check points. Monitors sprinkler systems and fire extinguishers for correct operating pressure and function. Reports damage to buildings, maintenance work required and safety violations to supervisor.
  • Completes written reports summarizing nightly rounds. Locks and unlocks buildings. Assists Department of Public Safety staff as necessary. Notifies Department of Public Safety of emergency or hazardous situations/conditions.
  • Performs associated Facilities Services maintenance work as requested, including: snow removal, event set-up and cleanup, truck loading and unloading and trash/debris cleaning.
  • Performs all duties in a safe and professional manner and in accordance with established Middlebury College and departmental policies and procedures.
  • Performs other duties as assigned to assist department in obtaining and maintaining its mission.


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