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Firefighter Lieutenant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Crew Firefighters are assigned to an Engine Company, Rescue Squad and/or Aircraft Rescue ... Meet all requirements for the position of Firefighter/ Lieutenant participate in all assigned ...

Fire Medic

Fairfax, VA

$71K - $120K/yr

Consideration will be given to compensate according to experience for current firefighter ... Work is evaluated by an officer with input from an EMS lieutenant and reviewed by a battalion chief.

Fire Medic

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$71K - $120K/yr

Consideration will be given to compensate according to experience for current firefighter ... Work is evaluated by an officer with input from an EMS lieutenant and reviewed by a battalion chief.

Firefighter Lieutenant information

See Virginia salary details

$28.3K

$59.1K

$99.1K

How much do firefighter lieutenant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for firefighter lieutenant in Virginia is $59,095.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,100.00 and $68,400.00 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.

How much do firefighter lieutenants make in the US?

Firefighter lieutenants in the United States typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $85,000, depending on location, experience, and department size. They often hold certifications such as EMT or paramedic and have several years of firefighting experience before advancing to leadership roles.

How long does it take to be a 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 successful completion of promotional exams. Candidates often need to complete specialized training and certifications, such as incident command or leadership courses, before advancing to this rank.

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.

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 popular job titles related to Firefighter Lieutenant jobs in Virginia?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Firefighter Lieutenant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,095 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

LIEUTENANT FIRE

Constellis

Reston, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Constellis rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 116 rated security


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
Supervise and oversee Firefighters.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Assigned to the Department's Operations Division; Crew Firefighters are assigned to an Engine Company, Rescue Squad and/or Aircraft Rescue Firefighting (ARFF) vehicle
  • Responds to but not limited to the following: fire incidents, emergency medical incidents, fire alarms, hazardous materials, rescue operations including various types of rescue incidents such as high angle, confined space, trench, vehicle extrication, and building collapse
  • Follow Centerra Group and FEMS III SOPs/SOGs
  • Inspect vehicles, equipment, and consumables for which they are assigned each duty shift.
  • Meet all requirements for the position of Firefighter/ Lieutenant participate in all assigned training and associated duties as a member of the Department's Operations Division including any/all fire ground assignments
  • The duties of this position require to work under adverse environmental conditions.
  • Hazards encountered to include the potential for burns, dehydration and other effects of heat, smoke inhalation, heavy protective clothing, falling materials, or explosions; exposure to toxic materials; physical injury and sensory damage from firefighting activities and noise levels; dealing with victims of fire in varying states of fright, panic, and injury; and operating or riding on fire trucks at high speeds under adverse conditions.
  • Performs all other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS
  • Firefighter I & II
  • ARFF Firefighter
  • Hazmat Awareness and Operations
  • ProBoard and/or IFSAC Firefighter II
  • ProBoard and/or IFSAC Airport Firefighter
  • ProBoard and/or IFSAC Fire Instructor I
  • ProBoard and/or IFSAC Fire Inspector I
  • ProBoard and/or IFSAC Fire Officer I
  • ProBoard and/or IFSAC Hazardous Materials Technician
  • ProBoard and/or IFSAC Confined Space Rescue
  • ProBoard and/or IFSAC Driver/Operator on all assigned apparatus
  • State of Georgia certified EMT or NREMT
  • Obtain and maintain DOD Secret security clearance
  • Possess a valid Georgia State driver's license
  • Possess good oral and written communication skills
  • Successfully complete annual medical physical
  • Pass initial and random drug testing
  • Annually pass Combat Task Test (CTT)
  • Rigorous, heavy physical effort is required in the frequent handling of objects such as cylinders and extinguishers weighing 45 lbs. or more; may be required to lift/carry personnel such as an adult male in emergency situations.
  • Duties require full use of both arms, both legs and fingers to bend, turn, pull, crawl, kneel, and climb for such tasks as use of aerial ladders, firefighting equipment controls, arranging/connecting hoses, rappelling, operation of fire truck and all types of rescue operations, etc.

BENEFITS
Constellis offers a comprehensive, total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and a flexible benefits package that reflect its commitment to creating a diverse and supportive workplace.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Disability/Vet

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