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Firefighter Second Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Parker

Plating Specialist - 2nd Shift

Woburn, MA

$19.50 - $23/hr

Fireman 2nd class license preferred or required to achieve while in role. * Powered industrial trucks (forklift license) preferred. * Ability to stand for long durations up to 8 hours, and lift and ...

Berkshire Health Systems

Fireman/Technician

Pittsfield, MA · On-site

$28.85/hr

License, Certification & Registration: * 2NDFIREMAN - MA Second Class Fireman Minimum * Other Requirements: * Mechanical ability, computer literate. * Has the ability to use communication devices, i ...

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Firefighter Second information

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$28.5K

$59.6K

$100K

How much do firefighter second jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for firefighter second in the United States is $59,606.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What second jobs do most firefighters have?

Many firefighters take on second jobs such as security work, emergency medical services, or instructing firefighting training due to their physical fitness and emergency response skills. These side jobs often offer flexible hours that complement their primary firefighting schedule.

Can you work a second job while being a firefighter?

Firefighters often work second jobs, especially in volunteer or part-time roles, but it depends on department policies, shift schedules, and physical demands. Balancing multiple jobs requires good time management and ensuring it does not interfere with emergency response readiness or required certifications.

What does 5 5 5 mean to a firefighter?

In firefighting, the sequence 5 5 5 often refers to a radio code or shorthand used during operations, but it is not a standard or widely recognized code across all fire departments. It may be specific to a particular department's communication system or a personal shorthand among firefighters. Understanding such codes typically requires familiarity with the department's communication protocols and training.

What are some common challenges a Firefighter Second faces during their shift, and how are they supported by their team?

As a Firefighter Second, you may encounter challenges such as responding to high-stress emergency situations, working in hazardous environments, and managing physical and emotional fatigue during long shifts. Teamwork is essential—crews rely on clear communication, established protocols, and mutual support to ensure safety and effective response. Senior firefighters and officers often mentor newer team members, providing guidance and debriefing after difficult calls, which helps build confidence and resilience.

Why do so many firefighters have second jobs?

Many firefighters have second jobs to supplement their income due to the relatively low pay and demanding schedules of firefighting. Additional employment can also help develop skills, provide financial stability, and support personal or family needs.

What are Firefighter Seconds?

Firefighter Seconds are experienced firefighters who serve as the second-in-command on a firefighting team, supporting the Firefighter Officer or Captain. They are responsible for leading crews during emergency responses, ensuring safety procedures are followed, operating firefighting equipment, and sometimes mentoring less experienced firefighters. Their role is critical in coordinating efforts during fire suppression, rescue operations, and other emergencies.

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

To thrive as a Firefighter Second, you need solid training in fire suppression, emergency response, and basic medical care, typically supported by completion of firefighter academy and relevant certifications like EMT. Familiarity with firefighting equipment, breathing apparatus, and incident management systems is essential. Strong teamwork, problem-solving, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring effective emergency response, personal safety, and the protection of lives and property.

What is the difference between Firefighter Second vs Firefighter First?

AspectFirefighter SecondFirefighter First
Required CertificationsCPR, EMT, Firefighter I & IICPR, EMT, Firefighter I & II
Work EnvironmentFire scenes, emergency calls, trainingFire scenes, emergency calls, training
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, emergency servicesFire departments, emergency services

Firefighter Second and Firefighter First roles share similar certifications and work environments, often working together on emergency scenes. The main difference is that Firefighter First typically indicates a higher level of experience or seniority, often with additional responsibilities. Both positions are essential in fire service operations, with Firefighter Second serving as a vital team member supporting firefighting efforts.

More about Firefighter Second jobs
What cities are hiring for Firefighter Second jobs? Cities with the most Firefighter Second job openings:
What states have the most Firefighter Second jobs? States with the most job openings for Firefighter Second jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Firefighter Second jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Firefighter Second jobs are:
Firefighter Second jobs near you
Infographic showing various Firefighter Second job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 3% Internship, 62% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 19% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,606 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Paid Per Call Volunteer Firefighter

City of River Falls, WI

River Falls, WI • On-site

Per diem

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Salary : $0.00 Annually
Location : Fire 115 North 2nd Street River Falls, WI
Job Type: Paid Per Call Volunteer
Job Number: 2026 PPC Firefighter
Department: Fire
Opening Date: 07/08/2026
Closing Date: 10/21/2026 11:59 PM Central
Description
A Firefighter serves the City of River Falls and surrounding townships by responding to a wide variety of incidents, including fire suppression, prevention, rescues, hazardous materials mitigation, and other emergency calls as required. Additionally, firefighters assist with providing fire and life safety education to building owners, homeowners, and citizens of River Falls. They may also support fire inspectors and investigators as needed.
This position requires candidates to attend an informational meeting before advancing in the process.
Informational meetings will be held at the River Falls Fire Station from 6pm - 7pm on the following dates:
- August 12
- September 23
- October 7
- October 22
You are encouraged to bring your spouse or partner to the session so they can learn about the time commitment of the position.
Application review to begin in October. Interviews for this position will be held in early November 2026.
Essential Job Functions
  • Safely drive or ride in emergency vehicles in response to fire, rescue or other emergency incidents
  • Wear appropriate personal protective clothing and equipment at all incidents
  • Participate in department drills and training activities, maintaining proficiency in all emergency response, firefighting, and emergency medical skills
  • Apply proper firefighting techniques to control and extinguish fires using equipment and procedures in accordance with safety guidelines
  • Respond to hazardous materials incidents
  • Quickly read and interpret hazard warnings and labels in emergency situations
  • Communicate clearly, calmly, and confidently in oral and written communications
  • Assume command in the absence of a ranking officer
  • Comply with Federal Rules, Wisconsin State Law, City of River Falls Ordinances, and Department Administrative Regulations
  • Perform maintenance and care of apparatus, equipment and tools; report needed repairs to the appropriate authorities
  • Conduct pre-incident surveys of structures and businesses in the community
  • Always present yourself in a courteous, professional and responsible manner; serve as a role model for members for department members, upholding high ethical and professional standards
  • Maintain strict confidentiality regarding fire and rescue incidents
  • Keep stations, apparatus, tools, and equipment clean and in good operating condition
  • Keep a superior officer informed of fire suppression developments and perform other duties as assigned

NON-ESSENTIONAL SPECIAL EVENTS RELATED TO THE JOB:
  • During the course of the calendar year, the Department sponsors and participates in a number of Department and community events, including, but not limited to, an annual banquet, River Falls Days, Fire Safety Week, and an annual open house. Members are encouraged to participate in these Department events.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Exceptional communication skills orally and written
  • Perform CPR and administer basic first aid
  • Comfortable working at varying heights above grade
  • Function and work under stressful conditions
  • Learn the geography of the River Falls Fire District, the location of important buildings and the street system

Qualifications & Working Conditions
Minimum
  • High School Diploma, GED or HSED
  • Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age
  • Valid driver's license
  • Live or work within Department responding district
  • Must possess or obtain a Firefighter I certification, a Firefighter II certification, a Haz Mat Ops certification and have completed or will complete an emergency driver/operator class, within twenty-four (24) months of becoming a member of the department

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The characteristics described here represent those a Firefighter may encounter while performing the essential functions of this position. Firefighters often work in adverse conditions that pose a high risk of personal injury or exposure to hazardous situations.Potential physical hazards include exposure to fire, equipment, traffic, smoke inhalation, falling objects at emergency scenes, and health risks. Firefighters may be required to perform hazardous tasks under emergency conditions, often involving strenuous exertion. These tasks may be complicated by limited visibility, exposure to hazardous or toxic chemicals and gases, extreme temperatures, confined spaces, encounters with death, and emotional stress.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
While performing the duties of this job, the Firefighter is regularly required to use hands to handle objects, tools, or controls, and must be able to talk and hear. The Firefighter is frequently required to stand, walk, reach with hands and arms, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, lift, carry, push, or pull. Specific vision abilities required for this role include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. The job may require moving firefighting equipment and rescuing injured individuals from various types of accidents, including vehicular, industrial, and residential incidents. At times, the work involves navigating difficult terrain, such as steep, rocky, or slippery surfaces. Firefighters may also be required to assist in moving patients from injury sites to transportation modes, including vehicles or helicopters. Firefighters must frequently lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 125 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
EXCEPTIONS
All Firefighters must meet the outlined requirements by the completion of their probationary period (within 24 months). After that time, the Chief may authorize exceptions to specific physical requirements when warranted, provided they do not jeopardize the safety of other department members.
This position is not benefit eligible. All other City Policies apply according to the Employment Policy Handbook.
01
Why are you interested in joining the River Falls Fire Department?
02
Select all active fire certifications (if any)
  • N/A
  • Firefighter I
  • Firefighter II
  • Hazardous Materials Ops
  • Apparatus Ops
  • Other

Required Question

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