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Firefighter Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Geneva, City of (IL)

Paid On-Call Firefighter

Geneva, IL · On-site

$17/hr

Perform firefighting and life rescue duties, including responding to various emergencies; conducting fire suppression functions; administering first aid and emergency medical treatment; operating ...

City of Geneva, IL

Paid On-Call Firefighter

Geneva, IL · On-site

$18.83/hr

Perform firefighting and life rescue duties, including responding to various emergencies; conducting fire suppression functions; administering first aid and emergency medical treatment; operating ...

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Firefighter information

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$29.4K

$61.4K

$103K

How much do firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for firefighter in Chicago, IL is $61,403.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,900.00 and $71,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Firefighter, you need physical fitness, emergency response expertise, and completion of firefighter training programs—often including EMT certification. Familiarity with firefighting equipment, rescue tools, and communication systems like radios and dispatch software is vital. Strong teamwork, decision-making under pressure, and clear communication are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safety, effective emergency response, and saving lives in high-risk situations.

What do firefighters do?

Firefighters respond to emergency fire calls. They monitor phones and radios for emergencies, drive fire trucks and other emergency vehicles, put out fires, and find and rescue victims in burning buildings or other emergency situations. Many Firefighters are also paramedics and may be called to assist on emergency medical calls.

What are some common challenges firefighters face during emergency response, and how are they supported in handling them?

Firefighters often encounter physically and emotionally demanding situations, such as working in hazardous environments, responding to unpredictable emergencies, and witnessing traumatic events. To help manage these challenges, fire departments provide comprehensive training, strong teamwork, and access to peer support or counseling programs. Regular drills, debriefings after major incidents, and a culture of open communication also play key roles in supporting firefighters' well-being and effectiveness on the job.

How do you become a firefighter?

To become a firefighter, candidates typically need to meet minimum age and education requirements, complete firefighter training at a state-approved academy, and obtain necessary certifications such as CPR and EMT. Applicants often must pass physical fitness tests, background checks, and written exams, and may need to gain experience as a volunteer or in related emergency services.

How long does it take to become a firefighter?

Becoming a firefighter typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by fire academy training which lasts about 12 to 14 weeks. Candidates often need to pass physical fitness tests, written exams, and background checks; some jurisdictions also require EMT certification, which can add several months to the process.

Is 25 too late to be a firefighter?

Firefighter careers typically have no maximum age limit, and many departments accept applicants in their mid-20s and older. Physical fitness, passing required tests, and obtaining necessary certifications are essential, regardless of age. Age should not be a barrier if you meet the qualifications and are prepared for the training and physical demands of the job.
More about Firefighter jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Firefighter jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Firefighter jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Firefighter jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Firefighter jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Firefighter jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Firefighter jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Firefighter jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Firefighter job openings:

Firefighter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Firefighter job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,403 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Paramedic/Firefighter Westmont

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service, Inc.

Westmont, IL

$24.54/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Superior Ambulance Service rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

499th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Metro Paramedic Services, Inc. contracts with local municipalities to provide Emergency Medical Services, Rescue and/or Fire Services. Much of our proven success is attributable to the exceptional, compassionate customer service provided by our employees.   

 

We are currently seeking a full-time Paramedic/Firefighter for our Westmont contract.  Starting base annual pay is $81,673.


The basic function of the Paramedic/Firefighter is to provide medical care and transportation for a patient at the Paramedic/Firefighter (EMT-P) level, within their scope of practice, as stipulated by Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and/or EMS Commission of Illinois.  
 


Paramedic/Firefighter Qualifications:

  • Paramedic License 
  • Firefighter II or Basic Operations Firefighter Certification (preferred)
  • 1 year experience 
  • CPR Certified  
  • 21 Years of age
  • Valid Illinois Driver's License  
  • ACLS (Metro will train)
  • PALS (Metro will train)
  • Illinois Firefighter Certification Preferred (if not currently held, will be required to get it once offered)
  • Successfully completion of pre-employment physical, drug screen and background check

Paramedic/Firefighter Benefits: 

  • Opportunities for Career Advancement
  • Competitive Wages
  • Ability to Receive on Demand Pay Before Pay Day
  • 401(k) with Company Contribution
  • Medical, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance
  • Voluntary Insurance (short-term disability, critical illness, accidental & legal)
  • Company Paid Life Insurance and Long-Term Disability
  • Paid Vacation & Sick Time
  • Holiday Pay
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Company Provided Training 
  • Referral Bonus Available 

USD $24.54/Hr.

What Superior Ambulance Service employees say

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