1

First Responder Jobs in Atlanta, GA (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Pub Safety Officer, Armed

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

First responder to all emergency incidents within the assigned facility. Responsible for the safe de-escalation of critical events and the use of sound judgment in the engagement with combative or ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

First Responder information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$5

$19

How much do first responder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for first responder in Atlanta, GA is $18.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a first responder?

First responders are professionals who are among the first to arrive and provide assistance at the scene of an emergency, such as accidents, natural disasters, or medical crises. This group typically includes police officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and paramedics. Their primary role is to assess the situation, provide immediate care or intervention, and ensure the safety of those involved until further help arrives or the situation is under control. First responders are highly trained to handle high-pressure situations and often play a crucial role in saving lives and minimizing harm.

What do first responders do?

A first responder is an umbrella term for the first medically trained person to arrive on the scene of a medical emergency, accident, or other issue of public safety, such as an earthquake. This title usually includes police officers, firefighters, or EMTs. As a first responder, your primary responsibilities are to quickly and competently assess a situation and determine what other EMTs, police officers, or firefighters need to know when they arrive. You provide initial rescue or first aid care, but unless you are an EMT, you save more advanced medical care for when the ambulance arrives. In other words, a firefighter may provide CPR to an accident victim, but they stop when the more qualified first responder can take over.

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

To thrive as a First Responder, you need expertise in emergency medical care, crisis assessment, and lifesaving procedures, often backed by EMT or paramedic certification. Familiarity with emergency communication systems, rescue equipment, and incident reporting tools is typically required. Strong decision-making, composure under pressure, and effective teamwork set outstanding First Responders apart. These abilities are crucial for delivering rapid, coordinated, and effective responses during emergencies, directly impacting safety and survival outcomes.

What are some common challenges first responders face during multi-agency emergency situations?

First Responders often encounter challenges related to communication and coordination when working alongside multiple agencies, such as police, fire, and EMS teams. Differences in protocols, equipment, and terminology can lead to confusion or delays in response. To address these challenges, First Responders participate in joint training exercises and use standardized communication systems to ensure everyone is aligned during emergencies. Adaptability, teamwork, and a clear understanding of roles are essential skills for navigating these complex scenarios effectively.

What is the difference between First Responder vs Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)?

AspectFirst ResponderEmergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Required CertificationsBasic First Aid, CPR, and often Emergency Response trainingState-specific EMT certification, CPR, First Aid
Work EnvironmentEmergency scenes, accident sites, public safety eventsAmbulances, hospitals, emergency scenes
Employer & Industry UsagePublic safety agencies, fire departments, policeAmbulance services, hospitals, EMS agencies

First Responders are trained to provide initial emergency care and scene safety, often before EMTs arrive. EMTs have more advanced medical training and can provide a wider range of pre-hospital care. Both roles are vital in emergency response, but EMTs typically have more specialized medical skills and certifications.

What qualifications do I need to be a first responder?

To become a first responder, individuals typically need to complete emergency medical training such as CPR and first aid certification, and obtain relevant certifications like Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or paramedic licensure. Additionally, they must meet age, background check, and physical fitness requirements set by their state or employer.

What are the most commonly searched types of First Responder jobs in Atlanta, GA?

The most popular types of First Responder jobs in Atlanta, GA are:

What are popular job titles related to First Responder jobs in Atlanta, GA?

For First Responder jobs in Atlanta, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching First Responder jobs in Atlanta, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for First Responder jobs in Atlanta, GA are:

What cities near Atlanta, GA are hiring for First Responder jobs?

Cities near Atlanta, GA with the most First Responder job openings:

Infographic showing various First Responder job openings in Atlanta, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,466 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Public Safety Officer, Nights

Piedmont Healthcare Inc.

Fayetteville, GA

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Piedmont Healthcare rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 466 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

381st of 888 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Responsible for a variety of routine safety and emergency security activities while safeguarding students,
employees, visitors, patients and property. First responder to all emergency incidents within the assigned
facility.
Responsible for a variety of routine safety and emergency security activities while safeguarding students, employees, visitors, patients and property. First responder to all emergency incidents within the assigned facility. Responsible for the safe de-escalation of critical events and the use of sound judgment in the engagement with combative or escalating subjects.
Education
  • H.S. Diploma or General Education Degree (GED) Required
Work Experience
  • No experience required Required

  • 2 years experience in general security, military or other public safety experience Preferred
Licenses and Certifications
  • DL NUMBER - Driver License, Valid and in State & adhere to Piedmont's Healthcare Vehicle Safety Program policy 3500 Upon Hire Required

  • IAHSS - Certification As A Security Officer within 1 Year Required

  • Must pass pre-employment psychological screening Required

  • Must pass and maintain all training requirements to maintain employment to include certifications in Taser, ASP Baton, Mental Health First Aid, and others as directed Required

  • Georgia Peace Officer Standards & Training (P.O.S.T.) certification Preferred

Piedmont Fayette Hospital

What Piedmont Healthcare employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom