1

Firefighter Driver Operator Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Firefighter EMT

Everett, WA · On-site

$99K - $124K/yr

Departmental standard operating procedures. South County EMS protocols, procedures and checklists ... Maintain a valid driver's license with acceptable driving record and the RFA approved defensive ...

Entry Level Firefighter EMT

Everett, WA · On-site

$99K - $124K/yr

Departmental standard operating procedures. * South County EMS protocols, procedures and checklists ... Maintain a valid driver's license with acceptable driving record and the RFA approved defensive ...

Departmental standard operating procedures. South County EMS protocols, procedures and checklists ... Maintain a valid driver's license with acceptable driving record and the RFA approved defensive ...

As you progress in your career, you may have the opportunity to apply for engine service (fireman ... Valid driver's license * Clean driving record in the past 36 months, without any suspension ...

Plumber (Skagit)

Seattle, WA · On-site

$48.32 - $52.18/hr

Current Washington State Driver's License or evidence of equivalent mobility. Desired ... Operator Certificate within twelve months of employment. A City of Seattle Grade IV Boiler Fireman ...

Firefighter Driver Operator information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$9

$21

$31

How much do firefighter driver operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for firefighter driver operator in Seattle, WA is $21.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $24.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Firefighter Driver Operator?

Firefighter Driver Operators, also known as fire apparatus operators or engineers, are firefighters who are specially trained to drive and operate fire trucks and other emergency vehicles. They are responsible for getting the apparatus safely to the scene of an emergency and then controlling the various systems on the vehicle, such as pumps or aerial ladders. In addition to vehicle operation, they may assist with firefighting tasks, equipment maintenance, and ensuring a reliable water supply during fire suppression. Their role is crucial for both the safety of the crew and the effectiveness of emergency response.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Firefighter Driver Operator?

To thrive as a Firefighter Driver Operator, you need a solid background in fire science, vehicle operations, and emergency response, typically supported by completion of firefighter training and a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL). Proficiency with fire apparatus, pumping systems, radio communications, and incident command software is essential. Attention to detail, calm under pressure, and strong teamwork are vital soft skills. These abilities ensure safe, efficient transportation of personnel and equipment, effective response to emergencies, and the protection of lives and property.

What are some common challenges faced by Firefighter Driver Operators during emergency responses?

Firefighter Driver Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating large emergency vehicles through congested streets, adverse weather conditions, and unfamiliar areas under high-pressure situations. They must also ensure the safe operation and positioning of apparatus to provide optimal access for firefighting and rescue activities. Additionally, maintaining constant communication with the crew and other emergency personnel is crucial for coordinated and effective response. Staying calm and making quick, informed decisions are essential skills for overcoming these obstacles.

What is the difference between Firefighter Driver Operator vs Firefighter?

AspectFirefighter Driver OperatorFirefighter
CertificationsFirefighter certification, CDL or specialized vehicle operation licenseFirefighter certification
Work EnvironmentOperate fire apparatus, drive emergency vehicles, assist in firefightingRespond to fires, rescue, and emergency scenes
Job ResponsibilitiesDriving, operating fire pumps, maintaining vehiclesFire suppression, rescue, first aid

Firefighter Driver Operators focus on driving and operating fire apparatus, ensuring vehicles are ready for emergencies, while Firefighters primarily respond to fires and rescue situations. Both roles require firefighting certifications, but Driver Operators also need specialized vehicle operation licenses. The roles often overlap in fire departments, with Driver Operators supporting firefighting efforts through vehicle management and operation.

What job categories do people searching Firefighter Driver Operator jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Firefighter Driver Operator jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Infographic showing various Firefighter Driver Operator job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,519 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Entry Level Firefighter EMT

South County Fire

Everett, WA • On-site

$99K - $124K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Description Core Values: All employees of South County Fire are expected to hold themselves accountable for upholding and demonstrating our core values at all times: Integrity, Humility, Compassion, Family and Trust. Summary: This company-level position performs emergency and non-emergency services including fire suppression, basic life support (BLS) emergency medical services, execution of training drills, inspection and maintenance of fire equipment and high value apparatus, safety and enhancing morale through leadership by example. The Firefighter EMT shall report to and is responsible to the Captain, who will evaluate performance.

Optimum performance is achieved based on the Firefighter's ability to adequately perform all facets of the job duties and responsibilities. The shift Firefighter shall work an assigned shift schedule in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement. Supervisory Responsibilities: None.

Essential Job Functions Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities: Participates in training activities, pre-fire planning, inspections, and other company programs that enhance a high state of readiness to respond to all emergency situations. Participation in specialized areas of fire service responsibility such as hazardous materials training, facility and equipment maintenance, and rescue techniques and capability is also required. Communicates with a culturally diverse community in a tactful and effective manner under emergency stress or property-/life-threatening situations.

This may involve managing individuals in a highly agitated state. Rides in and/or drives department apparatus, as required. Attends all meetings and training sessions, as required by local, state, and contractual requirements.

Delivers/administers Basic Life Support (BLS) emergency medical services and transportation to injured and ill patients in accordance with local, state, and nationally recognized standards. Performs fire suppression activities and tasks including pump operations, ladder operations, salvage duties, raising and climbing ladders, removing persons from danger; uses chemical extinguishing agents and other tools and equipment as required. Assists in extricating trapped victims or moving obstacles in order to obtain access to patients.

Pursues on-going career development and educational advancement to enhance knowledge, skills, and abilities in relation to responsibilities. Other Job Duties: May be provisionally appointed as acting Captain on a voluntary basis when minimum time in grade and requirements are fulfilled. Other duties as assigned within the scope of this job description.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Qualifications: Knowledge Of: Modern firefighting principles, practices, techniques, equipment and procedures and EMS. Geographical area. Operation and maintenance procedures of fire department apparatus and equipment.

Departmental standard operating procedures. South County EMS protocols, procedures and checklists. Rescue and hazardous materials response procedures.

Training methods, procedures and material resources. Skills and Ability To: Perform all duties of a firefighter. Perform as an EMT in Snohomish County.

Perform as a pump operator and/or ladder company operator (only if fully trained in accordance with standards). Adopt quick, effective, and reasonable courses of action during emergency operations with due regard to surrounding hazards, circumstances and safety. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with personnel and the public.

Demonstrate predictable, reliable and timely attendance. Follow written and verbal directions and complete assigned tasks on schedule. Read, write and communicate in English and understand basic math.

Maintain good physical conditioning and have the ability to carry out physically demanding tasks under dangerous and stressful conditions. Interact effectively with individuals and groups to achieve cooperation and support of departmental services, goals and objectives. Demonstrate proficiency in South County Fire software programs, including Microsoft Office applications and other programs as applicable.

Operate all fire-based apparatus and equipment, and operations level hazardous materials equipment, rescue equipment and BLS EMS equipment. Maintain and project a calm, informational and persuasive demeanor in stressful situations. Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.

Effectively handle frequently changing priorities. Maintain confidential information as appropriate. Education and Experience: As outlined in the current applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Special Requirements/Recommendations: Maintain a valid driver's license with acceptable driving record and the RFA approved defensive driving certificate. Participation in the South County Fire Respiratory Protection Program. Prior to Final Offer: Firefighter Mile results from National Testing Network scheduled through South County Fire during the Conditional Offer phase.

Required: High school diploma or GED. Valid National Registry and/or Washington State EMT Certification. Desirable: IFSAC Firefighter I and II and HazMat Operations certification.

Physical Demands: Must maintain physical condition, ability, agility and stamina to act in emergency, heavy physical labor, life-threatening, fire, accident and disaster situations. Must be able to climb and descend ladders, crawl into tight confined spaces, lift and carry heavy objects in excess of 150 pounds, bend at the waist, kneel, crouch, crawl, and stoop, sit, stand, walk for extended periods of time and reach overhead. Individual must possess acceptable auditory and visual senses to meet the requirements of the position.

Individual must be dexterous with their hands and fingers to operate various emergency tools and equipment and psychologically able to function within reduced visibility and restricted environments. Individual is required to wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and protective equipment weighing up to 60+ pounds and be able to pull hose to suppress fires and use ropes and pulleys to rescue victims. Working Conditions: This position requires individual to work in adverse weather conditions, and work in indoor and outdoor environments, and at heights and below grade.

Individual will be exposed to cold, heat, fire, smoke, high-decibel noise, falling debris, toxic material, blood and blood-borne pathogens. Individual will work around and with machinery having moving parts, traffic hazards, and rides in and/or drives department apparatus as required. Individual must be able to operate a computer, related software, printer, fax machine, copier, telephone, pager, EMS and fire equipment, radio and other electronic communication devices.

Individual may be required to travel to meetings, seminars and conferences. The statements contained herein reflect general details as necessary to describe the principal functions of this job, the level of knowledge and skill typically required and the scope of responsibility, but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods or otherwise to balance the workload.

Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer. Additional Requirements The following requirements must be met, or you will not move forward in the hiring process. Minimum Requirements: Must be at least 18 years old at time of application.

High school diploma or G.E.D. Valid driver's license. Applicants are required to complete the Firefighter written exam through Public Safety Testing (PST) before applying

We will accept score from February 2026 - September 2nd, 2026 for this hiring process. National Registry or Washington State certified EMT*. All new hire firefighters are required to participate in the Respiratory Protection Program.

Required Documents: The following documents must be attached to your electronic application. Applicants who do not include these items exactly as described will be disqualified: Current resume. Current EMT certification**.

Your certification must meet these requirements: National Registry or Washington State (Department of Health) EMT Certification only. We do not accept out-of-state certifications. We do not accept any other BLS, first aid, or other certifications or courses, including Red Cross.

Documents clearly showing your name, issuing agency, and expiration date. Documents without an expiration date or with dates that are expired are not acceptable. *If you are not currently certified, but in the process of becoming certified with National Registry EMT or Washington State Department of Health, you will be required to provide certification via email prior to application deadline or you will be disqualified.

If claiming Veterans Preference: Attach copy of DD 214 form. Preferred Qualifications: IFSAC Firefighter I and II certifications. IFSAC HazMat Operations certificate.

* Sample of NREMT document requirement. * Sample of WA DOH document requirement.