Firefighter Cook information
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$10.58 - $11.76
1% of jobs
$11.76 - $12.94
2% of jobs
$12.94 - $14.12
7% of jobs
$14.12 - $15.30
14% of jobs
$15.35 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$15.30 - $16.48
17% of jobs
The median wage is $17.15 / hr.
$16.48 - $17.66
16% of jobs
$17.66 - $18.84
16% of jobs
$19.06 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$18.84 - $20.02
13% of jobs
$20.02 - $21.20
6% of jobs
$21.20 - $22.38
5% of jobs
$22.38 - $23.56
3% of jobs
How much do firefighter cook jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for firefighter cook in the United States is $17.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Firefighter cooks are individuals responsible for preparing meals for firefighters at fire stations or during emergency deployments. They plan menus, purchase groceries, and cook nutritious meals to ensure firefighters have the energy and sustenance needed for their demanding jobs. Firefighter cooks must be skilled in cooking large quantities of food, often under time constraints, and may also accommodate special dietary needs. Their role is crucial in maintaining the health and morale of the firefighting team.
To thrive as a Firefighter Cook, you need strong culinary skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and typically a high school diploma or culinary training. Familiarity with industrial kitchen equipment, meal planning software, and food handling certifications like ServSafe are commonly required. Flexibility, teamwork, and the ability to work under pressure are essential soft skills in this role. These skills ensure nutritious, timely meals for firefighters, supporting their health and readiness during demanding shifts.
As a Firefighter Cook, one of the main challenges is adapting meal preparation to the unpredictability of emergency calls. You must be skilled at managing time efficiently, as you may need to pause cooking and resume later without compromising food quality or safety. Additionally, you need to plan meals that are nutritious, easy to reheat, and suitable for large groups, all while working within a budget. Collaboration with fellow firefighters is key, as meal preferences and dietary restrictions must be considered, and teamwork ensures everyone is fed even during high-pressure situations.
What are popular job titles related to Firefighter Cook jobs?
For Firefighter Cook jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
