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Firefighter Driver Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

City of Rock Island, IL

Firefighter

Rock Island, IL · On-site

$62K - $92K/yr

Candidate must be a US Citizen and have a valid driver's license. Candidate must be at least 21 ... Attends training classes and activities in firefighting and emergency medical services techniques ...

City of Rock Island

Firefighter

Rock Island, IL · On-site

$62K - $92K/yr

Candidate must be a US Citizen and have a valid driver's license. Candidate must be at least 21 ... Attends training classes and activities in firefighting and emergency medical services techniques ...

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All JobsFirefighter Driver JobsFirefighter Driver Jobs in Illinois

Firefighter Driver information

See Illinois salary details

$27.6K

$57.8K

$96.9K

How much do firefighter driver jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for firefighter driver in Illinois is $57,760.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,100.00 and $66,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a firefighter driver?

Firefighter Drivers, also known as Fire Apparatus Operators or Engineer Drivers, are firefighters trained to operate and drive fire trucks and other emergency response vehicles. They are responsible for safely transporting crew members to emergency scenes and ensuring that all equipment arrives in good working order. In addition to driving, they handle the operation of pumps, aerial ladders, and other specialized apparatus at the scene. Firefighter Drivers must have a thorough knowledge of vehicle mechanics, safety protocols, and local routes to respond quickly and efficiently during emergencies.

What are some unique challenges firefighter drivers face during emergency responses?

Firefighter drivers, also known as driver/operators or engineers, encounter unique challenges such as navigating large emergency vehicles through traffic and tight streets under stressful, time-sensitive conditions. They must remain highly alert to changing road situations, ensure the safety of the crew and public, and operate complex equipment like pumps and aerial ladders upon arrival. Additionally, they often assist with scene setup and may be responsible for maintaining the vehicle and equipment readiness throughout their shift.

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

To thrive as a Firefighter Driver, you need a solid understanding of fire suppression techniques, emergency response procedures, and a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) or equivalent certification. Familiarity with fire apparatus, hydraulic systems, GPS navigation, and radio communication tools is typically required. Strong situational awareness, calm decision-making under pressure, and teamwork are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe and effective operation of emergency vehicles, timely response, and the overall safety of both crew and community during emergencies.

What is the difference between Firefighter Driver vs Firefighter?

AspectFirefighter DriverFirefighter
Required CertificationsFirefighter certification, driver/operator licenseFirefighter certification, EMT or paramedic license often preferred
Work EnvironmentOperate fire engines, drive emergency vehicles, assist in firefightingRespond to fires, rescue operations, and emergency medical calls
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, emergency servicesFire departments, emergency response agencies

Firefighter Drivers specialize in operating fire apparatus and driving emergency vehicles, while Firefighters focus on firefighting, rescue, and medical assistance. Both roles require firefighting certification, but Firefighter Drivers also need a valid driver’s license for emergency vehicles. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths within fire services.

How much do firefighter drivers make?

Firefighter drivers, also known as fire apparatus operators, typically earn a median annual salary between $45,000 and $65,000, depending on experience, location, and department size. They often require certifications such as EMT or paramedic training and work in high-pressure environments with irregular hours.

What are popular job titles related to Firefighter Driver jobs in Illinois?

For Firefighter Driver jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Firefighter Driver jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Firefighter Driver jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Firefighter Driver jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Firefighter Driver job openings:

Firefighter Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Firefighter Driver job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,760 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Part-Time Firefighter

City of O'Fallon, IL

O Fallon, IL • On-site

Part-time

Posted 16 days ago

City Of O'Fallon (Missouri) rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

177th of 854 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Part-Time Firefighter
Description
This is a part-time position for the Fire Department with responsibility for firefighting, lifesaving, and other related work activities connected with the response to emergency and other incidents, fire prevention, equipment operation and maintenance, facility maintenance, work and skill readiness and other related tasks.
Essential Duties
1. Respond to emergency and non-emergency incidents in a timely, safe, and skilled manner as a member of an O’Fallon Fire Rescue company.
2. Complete required daily, weekly, and monthly inspections and maintenance of fire department equipment, vehicles, and facilities.
3. Complete fire prevention tasks to include fire safety presentations and installing smoke detectors as part of the community risk reduction program.
4. Conduct company level pre-plan inspections of local businesses as part of the overall fire safety inspection and code enforcement program.
5. Participate in required training and drills to maintain a high level of job performance knowledge and skills for various duties.
6. Drive and operate all department front line apparatus to include engines, ladder trucks, and rescue squad.
7. Complete day-to-day electronic record keeping (incident reports, maintenance logs, training records, etc).
8. Maintain an adequate level of physical fitness to perform firefighting, rescue, equipment operation, and other related tasks.
9. Maintain a professional appearance per department standards and promote positive relationships with the citizens.
10. Able to communicate effectively using both oral and written communication.
11. Able to comprehend and follow verbal and oral directions or communications.
12. Able to distinguish colors, symbols, markings on buildings, vehicles, containers, etc.
The above list serves an example of the common duties of a firefighter and is not intended to be all inclusive. Firefighters may be required to perform a variety of other duties as assigned.
Requires
Minimum Qualifications
Education
1. Five (5) years of Firefighter experience
2. Fire Fighter II/Basic Operations Firefighter certification (OSFM, ProBoard, IFSAC).
3. Must possess a State of Illinois non-CDL Class B driver’s license.
4. Successful completion of initial and annual NFPA 1582 medical and physical agility screenings

What City Of O'Fallon (Missouri) employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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