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Firefighter Trainee Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Firefighter Trainee information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$19

$32

How much do firefighter trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for firefighter trainee in Tennessee is $19.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $22.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a firefighter trainee?

To thrive as a Firefighter Trainee, you need strong physical fitness, basic emergency response knowledge, and typically a high school diploma or GED. Firefighter trainees often learn to operate firefighting equipment, use protective gear, and may need CPR or basic first aid certification. Teamwork, quick decision-making, and strong communication are essential soft skills for success in this position. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safety, effective response during emergencies, and smooth collaboration with firefighting teams.

What does a firefighter trainee do?

As a Firefighter Trainee, your days are structured around a mix of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and physical conditioning. You’ll learn about fire behavior, emergency medical procedures, and equipment use, as well as participate in drills that simulate real-life emergencies. Trainees often work alongside experienced firefighters, gradually gaining exposure to live fire scenarios and rescue operations under supervision. The role requires adaptability, teamwork, and a commitment to continuous learning to prepare you for the full responsibilities of a firefighter. This training environment helps build the essential skills and confidence needed for a successful firefighting career.

What is a firefighter trainee?

A Firefighter Trainee is an entry-level position for individuals preparing to become full-fledged firefighters. Trainees undergo rigorous training in fire suppression, emergency medical response, hazardous materials handling, and rescue operations. They work under the supervision of experienced firefighters while learning department protocols and safety procedures. This role is designed to develop the necessary skills and knowledge required to pass certification exams and advance to a firefighter position.

What are the most commonly searched types of Firefighter jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Firefighter jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Firefighter Trainee jobs in Tennessee? For Firefighter Trainee jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Firefighter Trainee jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Firefighter Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Firefighter Trainee job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,926 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Firefighter Trainee, Firefighter EMT, Firefighter AEMT, Firefighter Paramedic

City of Oak Ridge TN

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

$53K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

The City of Oak Ridge is accepting applications for the positions of Firefighter Trainee, Firefighter EMT, Firefighter Paramedic, and Firefighter Engineer I and II. 

STARTING SALARY: 
Effective July 5, 2026

Firefighter Trainee, no experience;
$43,301.44 per year.
Firefighter I;
$44,611.84 per year
Firefighter II;
$45,514.56 per year
Firefighter I EMT;
$47,785.92 per year
Firefighter II EMT;
$48,717.76 per year
Firefighter I AEMT;
$50,173.76 per year
Firefighter II AEMT;
$51,163.84 per year
Firefighter I Paramedic;
$52,561.60 per year       
Firefighter II Paramedic;
$53,580.80 per year


MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

1. At least 18 years of age with high school diploma or equivalent

2. Honorable Discharge from Military Service (if applicable)

3. Excellent physical condition with weight in proportion to height

4. Excellent moral character and free of a criminal conviction record

5. Able to pass a written exam, physical agility test, psychological evaluation, background
investigation, medical examination, and drug screening.  

6. Have or be able to obtain Tennessee Driver's License within 30 days of appointment and must 
have a cell phone/home phone.


Individuals who desire to participate in the selection process MUST have a completed employment application on file.  Applications must be received by
12:00 noon, October 16, 2026.
 

Applicants MUST be able to attend a Written Exam and will receive detailed information regarding testing date, time, and location following the close of this recruitment.


Exempt : No
Type : FT Employee
Department : Fire Department
Location : Fire Department