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Lateral Entry Firefighter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Hardeeville

Lateral Firefighter

Hardeeville, SC · On-site

$56K/yr

... entry into structures, locating hydrants and other sources of water, and operate hose lines ... Lateral Minimum qualifications IFSAC or Pro-Board Firefighter I/II NIMS: 100, 200, 700, 800 ...

City of Lodi, CA

Firefighter II (Lateral)

Lodi, CA · On-site

$87K - $106K/yr

... Lateral Firefighter II. Qualified applicants must be currently working as a full-time paid ... obtain entry to buildings, assists trapped victims, and provides ventilation. Responds as an ...

City of Lodi

Firefighter II (Lateral)

Lodi, CA

$87K - $106K/yr

The City of Lodi Fire Department is currently accepting applications for Lateral Firefighter II. ... obtain entry to buildings, assists trapped victims, and provides ventilation. Responds as an ...

City of Whitehall

Lateral Firefighter

Columbus, OH · On-site

$26.34/hr

Nature of Work Under the direction of the Fire Lieutenant and Fire Captain, the Firefighter engages directly in fire suppression, rescue, forcible entry, ventilation, salvage & overhaul, fire ...

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Lateral Entry Firefighter information

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$23K

$56.1K

$100K

How much do lateral entry firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for lateral entry firefighter in the United States is $56,072.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $65,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get hired as a firefighter with no experience?

To become a lateral entry firefighter with no experience, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, valid driver's license, and emergency medical technician (EMT) certification. Gaining physical fitness, completing firefighter training programs, and passing written and physical exams are essential steps to qualify for hiring. Some departments may also consider volunteer experience or related skills in emergency response.

What is the 7k rule for firefighters?

The 7k rule for firefighters refers to a guideline that limits the number of hours a firefighter can work in a week, typically around 72 hours, to prevent fatigue and ensure safety. It emphasizes the importance of proper rest and shift scheduling for maintaining operational readiness and health. Fire departments often implement this rule as part of their staffing and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Lateral Entry Firefighter vs Firefighter?

AspectLateral Entry FirefighterFirefighter
Required CredentialsFirefighter certification, EMT license, previous firefighting experienceFirefighter certification, EMT license (optional), entry-level experience
Work EnvironmentSame as Firefighter, including fire scenes, rescue operations, emergency medical servicesFire scenes, rescue operations, emergency medical services
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments hiring experienced firefighters to fill vacanciesEntry-level firefighters starting their careers in fire services

In summary, a Lateral Entry Firefighter is an experienced firefighter who joins a fire department with prior experience and certifications, whereas a Firefighter may be new to the profession. Both roles work in similar environments and require comparable credentials, but lateral entry positions typically require proven experience.

What is a lateral entry firefighter?

A lateral entry firefighter is an experienced firefighter who transfers from one fire department to another, usually without having to start at the entry-level position. This process allows departments to hire qualified personnel who already possess the necessary certifications, training, and often several years of firefighting experience. Lateral entry firefighters typically undergo a streamlined onboarding process and may be eligible for advanced placement, higher pay, or additional benefits based on their experience. The requirements and selection process for lateral entry positions vary by department.

How does prior firefighting experience influence training and integration for lateral entry firefighters?

Lateral entry firefighters typically join with previous firefighting experience, which allows them to bypass some introductory training. However, they still undergo department-specific orientation and may be required to complete certain local certifications or familiarize themselves with new equipment and protocols. Integration often involves shadowing experienced team members and participating in drills to ensure seamless teamwork. This approach helps lateral hires quickly adapt while maintaining safety and operational consistency.

What does 5 5 5 mean to a firefighter?

In the context of a lateral entry firefighter, the numbers 5 5 5 typically refer to the firefighter's rank or seniority levels, such as five years of experience, five certifications, and five specialized skills. These designations can influence pay, responsibilities, and eligibility for promotions within the fire department. Understanding these levels helps determine a firefighter's qualifications and career progression opportunities.

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

To thrive as a Lateral Entry Firefighter, you need proven firefighting experience, state or national firefighter certifications (such as Firefighter I/II), and often EMT or paramedic credentials. Familiarity with fire suppression equipment, emergency medical tools, and incident reporting systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and adaptability are vital soft skills for effectively responding to dynamic emergencies. These skills ensure efficient emergency response, public safety, and seamless integration into established fire service teams.

What is a lateral firefighter?

A lateral firefighter is an experienced firefighter who transfers from another fire department, often bringing prior training and skills. They typically need to meet department-specific requirements, such as certifications and physical fitness standards, and may bypass some entry-level testing due to their experience.
More about Lateral Entry Firefighter jobs
What states have the most Lateral Entry Firefighter jobs? States with the most job openings for Lateral Entry Firefighter jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Lateral Entry Firefighter jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lateral Entry Firefighter jobs are:
Lateral Entry Firefighter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lateral Entry Firefighter job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 7% Full Time, and 89% Part Time. Highlights an 80% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,072 per year, or $27 per hour.

Lateral Firefighter

City of Hardeeville

Hardeeville, SC • On-site

$56K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Provide emergency medical services as a first responder, including evaluating and administering drugs for various medical incidents and maintaining EMS equipment and supplies.

  • Perform fire control and rescue operations by entering burning structures, searching for victims and fire sources, extinguishing fires, operating equipment, and forcing entry into structures.

  • Provide specialized rescue services such as swift water rescue, hazardous materials response, and technical rescue, and participate in drills while maintaining records, logs, and reports.

Job description

Description Protect and serve the public through fire prevention activities, emergency responses to fire, EMS, hazardous materials, and technical rescue incidents. Examples of Duties Provide emergency medical services as a first responder; evaluate and administer drugs for cardiac, respiratory, allergic conditions and trauma incidents; maintain EMS equipment and supplies. Maintain required certifications.

Perform fire control and rescue operations by entering burning structures, searching for victims and fire sources, extinguishing fires, operating equipment, and apparatus, forcing entry into structures, locating hydrants and other sources of water, and operate hose lines. Provide highly specialized rescue services such as swift water rescue, hazardous materials response, and technical rescue. Participate in drills, demonstrate consistent and thorough knowledge of specialized areas, and maintain records, logs, and reports.

Maintain equipment and fire facilities by performing daily preventive maintenance, testing fire equipment, checking hydrants, and performing other duties as assigned. Until graduation from the Fire Academy-if applicable, entry-level fire recruits and Certified A-EMT personnel will learn to perform all tasks above through attending classes and participating in rigorous physical training. This position is critical to emergency operations and will report to work despite or because of an emergency or disaster event Typical Qualifications Entry Level Fire Recruit High school diploma or equivalent (GED) Valid driver's license Must be 18 years of age before offer of employment Must obtain NREMT-B certification and maintain throughout employment.

No DWI/DUI convictions in the last four years. No felony convictions. Lateral Minimum qualifications IFSAC or Pro-Board Firefighter I/II NIMS: 100, 200, 700, 800 Preferred Qualifications Valid Class 'E" driver's license or equivalent Two years as a full-time firefighter EMT, Advanced-EMT, Paramedic Supplemental Information Sign on Bonus - $3,000 for certified individual.

$1,500 for a new recruit. Credit for years of service up to 10% NREMT - 3% of base salary Up to 173 hours of built-in Overtime Double time on Holidays worked 24/48 shift schedule Paid Employee Healthcare Advanced EMT - $2,000 bonus Paramedic - $6,000 bonus Critical Care Paramedic - $1,000 SCFA Instructor - $1,000

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