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Firefighter Lieutenant Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Shelby County

Firefighter Private (Fire)

Memphis, TN

Fire Lieutenant Minimum Qualifications * Must be at least 21 years of age upon date of employment ... State of Tennessee Firefighter I or Firefighter II Certification (Nonresidents must qualify for ...

City of Memphis, TN

Single Role Paramedic

Memphis, TN · On-site

$68K/yr

Salary Range:$68,012.36 - $68,012.36 Works under an assigned fire station Lieutenant and on-duty ... Assists other Firefighters in lifting and carrying a victim and stretcher weighing an average 220 ...

City of Memphis, TN

Single Role Paramedic

Memphis, TN · On-site

$68K/yr

Salary Range:$68,012.36 - $68,012.36 Works under an assigned fire station Lieutenant and on-duty ... Assists other Firefighters in lifting and carrying a victim and stretcher weighing an average 220 ...

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Firefighter Lieutenant information

See Tennessee salary details

$25.9K

$54.1K

$90.8K

How much do firefighter lieutenant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for firefighter lieutenant in Tennessee is $54,100.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,300.00 and $62,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a firefighter lieutenant?

Firefighter Lieutenants are supervisory personnel in fire departments who oversee a team of firefighters during emergency responses and daily operations. They are responsible for managing their crew’s safety, training, and performance, as well as ensuring that firefighting equipment is properly maintained. Firefighter Lieutenants also coordinate on-scene activities, make tactical decisions, and often serve as the link between firefighters and higher-ranking officers. Their leadership is crucial in both emergency and non-emergency situations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a firefighter lieutenant?

To thrive as a Firefighter Lieutenant, you need advanced firefighting knowledge, emergency response leadership, and typically several years of firefighting experience along with relevant certifications such as Fire Officer I/II. Familiarity with incident command systems, firefighting apparatus, and emergency communication tools is essential. Strong decision-making, leadership, and communication skills help manage teams and coordinate during high-pressure situations. These abilities are crucial for ensuring effective emergency response, crew safety, and successful incident outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by a firefighter lieutenant when leading a team during emergency responses?

A Firefighter Lieutenant often faces the challenge of making quick, critical decisions while ensuring the safety and coordination of their team during high-pressure situations. Balancing effective communication, resource allocation, and tactical planning can be demanding, especially when unexpected hazards arise. Additionally, Lieutenants must manage the stress and emotional well-being of their crew, as well as maintain clear communication with other emergency services. Successful Lieutenants are adaptable, calm under pressure, and skilled at fostering teamwork in dynamic environments.

What is the difference between Firefighter Lieutenant vs Firefighter Captain?

AspectFirefighter LieutenantFirefighter Captain
CertificationsFirefighter certification, EMT/Paramedic license, Leadership trainingAll certifications of Lieutenant plus advanced leadership and management training
Work EnvironmentLeading fire crews during emergency responses, training, and station dutiesOverseeing multiple fire crews, strategic planning, and administrative responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, emergency servicesFire departments, emergency services

The Firefighter Lieutenant primarily leads fire crews during emergency responses and station activities, requiring certifications like EMT and leadership training. The Firefighter Captain holds a higher supervisory role, managing multiple crews and handling administrative duties. Both roles are essential in fire departments, with the Captain overseeing broader operations and strategic planning.

How long does it take to be a fire firefighter lieutenant?

Becoming a firefighter lieutenant typically requires several years of experience as a firefighter, usually around 5 to 7 years, along with demonstrated leadership skills and completion of relevant training and certifications. Advancement depends on department policies, individual performance, and additional qualifications such as fire officer courses. The process involves gaining experience, passing promotional exams, and often completing leadership development programs.

How much do firefighter lieutenants make in the US?

Firefighter lieutenants in the US typically earn an average annual salary between $60,000 and $85,000, depending on location, experience, and department size. They often hold leadership responsibilities, require certification, and work in emergency response environments with shift schedules.

What are popular job titles related to Firefighter Lieutenant jobs in Tennessee?

For Firefighter Lieutenant jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Firefighter Lieutenant jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Firefighter Lieutenant jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Firefighter Lieutenant jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Firefighter Lieutenant job openings:

Firefighter Lieutenant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Firefighter Lieutenant job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,100 per year, or $26 per hour.

Firefighter Private (Fire)

Shelby County Sheriff's Office

Memphis, TN • On-site

$20.77/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description


Position Summary
Works under the direct supervision of a Training Officer to learn the techniques of fire suppression, emergency medical services, and emergency and non-emergency incident response. Successful recruits will be assigned to a Fire Lieutenant to perform public safety work involving the protection of life and property.
Reports To: Fire Lieutenant
Minimum Qualifications
  • Must be at least 21 years of age upon date of employment.
  • Graduation from an accredited High School or possess a GED.
  • Be a U. S. citizen.
  • Be of good moral character and integrity.

Preferred Minimum Qualifications
  • Paramedic or EMS Certification OR
  • Two (2) or more years of college OR
  • U.S. Military Service with Honorable Discharge OR
  • State of Tennessee Firefighter I or Firefighter II Certification (Nonresidents must qualify for reciprocity)
  • PROOF OF EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND/OR EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Responds to fire, medical and other emergency and non-emergency calls.
  • Performs ladder operations and hose evolutions.
  • Locates and rescues individuals from burning buildings.
  • Ensures that all necessary equipment is available.
  • Checks operation of equipment and apparatus.
  • Creates openings in buildings for ventilation or entrance.
  • Administers medical service to persons needing assistance.
  • Inspects buildings for fire hazards and compliance with fire prevention ordinances.
  • Selects hose nozzle according to type of fire and directs water stream or chemicals onto fire.
  • Maintains apparatus, living quarters, and emergency equipment.
  • Protects property from water and smoke by use of waterproof covers, smoke fans, and deodorants.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned or directed.

KSAs
  • Ability to follow directions.
  • Ability to work with the public under stressful and/or dangerous conditions and make quick, accurate decisions concerning human life.
  • Ability to conform to and work in a para-military environment.
  • Ability to work in stressful situations under adverse weather conditions, such as extreme heat, thick smoke, and toxic fumes.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
  • Ability to operate various fire apparatus, including an axe, pry bar, high pressure hose, ladders, safety equipment, breathing apparatus, two-way radio, chemicals, related firefighting equipment, and emergency medical equipment.
  • Ability to perform demanding physical tasks required in firefighting and emergency medical work, such as lifting and carrying a victim, hose, or other equipment weighing up to 200 lbs. while wearing turnouts, air tank, air mask, gloves, etc.; extinguishing fires; making routine inspections of buildings, hydrants, and immediate surroundings for existence of fire hazards; and walking, running, crawling, standing, lifting, climbing, or stooping for long periods of time while wearing/carrying heavy equipment.
  • Ability to work a twenty-four (24) hour/ fifty-six (56) hour work week.
  • Ability to perform firefighting duties in emergency vehicles, such as trucks, engines, or other apparatus at the scene of fire, medical, and/or other emergency and non-emergency calls.
  • Knowledge of the proper use of medical equipment.
  • Knowledge of local streets and hospital locations.
  • Knowledge of emergency communication codes and procedures.
  • Knowledge of hydraulic principles involved in properly extinguishing a fire.

Special Requirements
  • Must pass all pre-hire screening, including physical examination and eye exam.
  • Must pass psychological test, drug screen, and criminal background check.
  • Must pass the Shelby County Fire Department Physical Agility Test.
  • Must pass Firefighter Entry Level test. A study guide is available at www.publicsafetycompass.com.
  • Must successfully complete the Shelby County Fire Department Training Academy within the prescribed time.
  • Must become certified by the State of Tennessee as a Firefighter I and II, and with Shelby County Fire Department as Firefighter III, within three (3) years of being hired. Must maintain certification throughout employment.
  • As dictated by staffing needs, some Firefighter Recruits will be required to complete coursework/testing and become Paramedics licensed by the State of Tennessee within the timeframe (below) based on their medical certification level at time of employment and maintain licensure, as a condition of continued employment.
  • Successful applicants will be notified if this requirement applies to them at the time of the employment offer.

Emergency Medical Licensure Requirements - Deadline to obtain License from date of course enrollment
License Level on Date of Hire
EMT AEMT PARAMEDIC
No license 12 months* 24 months* 48 months*
EMT Basic N/A 12 months* 36 months*
AEMT N/A N/A 18 months*
*Must successfully complete licensure program, testing, application requirements, and submit license at specific deadlines, to be defined and communicated by Shelby County Fire Department, as a condition of continued employment.
  • Must possess and maintain throughout employment adequate physical fitness in order to fulfill the physically demanding (and potentially hazardous) tasks that a firefighter performs.
  • Must possess a valid Tennessee Driver's License.
  • Must have access to an operable automobile and meet County standards for automobile insurance upon date of employment.

Disclaimer
This position is subject to a background check for any convictions that have a substantial relationship to potential job duties. Only convictions that are substantially related to potential job duties will be considered and will not automatically disqualify the candidate.
Shelby County Resident Disclaimer
All employees hired after September 1, 1986, must be residents of Shelby County and shall continue to reside in the County as a condition of their employment. The residency requirement shall not apply to certain public safety/civil service employees. This means exemption from this policy is in effect for the following departments and positions: (1) Sheriff Deputy Patrol Officers, Deputy Jailers and Dispatchers, employed by the Sheriff Department, (2) Correction Officers employed by the Division of Corrections, (3) Firefighters, Paramedics and Dispatchers employed by the Shelby County Fire Department. The residency exemption for public safety/civil service employees does not include Appointed positions with Sheriff's Office, Division of Corrections or the Fire Department.

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