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Lateral Transfer Firefighter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Firefighter Lateral Transfer

Superior, WI · On-site

$22.41 - $25.32/hr

Lateral Transfer Firefighters who are eligible for WI Firefighter II certification, and are nationally registers EMT's and/or licensed in the State of Wisconsin, may submit an application for ...

Firefighter/Paramedic Lateral

Provo, UT · On-site

$69K - $112K/yr

They will remain on file for a minimum of 60 days.] Provo City accepts lateral transfer applications from current firefighter/paramedics in other agencies at any time. Provo Fire & Rescue enjoys a ...

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Lateral Transfer Firefighter information

See salary details

$28.5K

$59.6K

$100K

How much do lateral transfer firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for lateral transfer firefighter 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 is a lateral transfer firefighter?

A Lateral Transfer Firefighter is an experienced firefighter who moves from one fire department to another without having to start as a new recruit. This allows departments to hire trained personnel who can quickly integrate into operations. Lateral transfers typically require prior firefighting experience, relevant certifications, and meeting the hiring department’s qualifications. The process varies by department and may include physical testing, interviews, and background checks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lateral transfer firefighter?

To succeed as a Lateral Transfer Firefighter, you must possess previous firefighting experience, completion of Firefighter I/II certifications, and a demonstrated ability to perform under pressure. Familiarity with fire engines, respiratory protection equipment, and incident reporting systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication help individuals excel as they integrate with new crews and communities. These combined skills ensure that lateral transfers can quickly become valuable, trusted members of their new department and contribute to emergency response effectiveness.

How does the onboarding process differ for lateral transfer firefighters compared to entry-level recruits?

Lateral transfer firefighters typically undergo an accelerated onboarding process because they bring prior firefighting experience and certifications. While some training will focus on local procedures, protocols, and equipment unique to the new department, lateral transfers spend less time in basic skills instruction and more time integrating into team operations. This allows them to become active contributors on emergency calls faster than entry-level recruits. Additionally, lateral transfers may benefit from mentorship programs or orientation sessions designed to quickly familiarize them with their new crew and community expectations.

Can you lateral transfer as a lateral transfer firefighter?

Lateral transfer firefighters can often transfer between fire departments if they meet the receiving department's requirements, such as certifications, experience, and physical fitness standards. The process typically involves an application, evaluation of credentials, and sometimes testing or interviews. Lateral transfers allow experienced firefighters to move without starting from entry-level positions, but specific policies vary by department.
More about Lateral Transfer Firefighter jobs

What states have the most Lateral Transfer Firefighter jobs?

States with the most job openings for Lateral Transfer Firefighter jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Lateral Transfer Firefighter jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Lateral Transfer Firefighter jobs are:

Infographic showing various Lateral Transfer Firefighter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,606 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Lateral Transfer Firefighter

City of Owensboro

Owensboro, KY • On-site

Other

Posted 19 days ago


City Of Owensboro rating

9.8

Company rating: 9.8 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 848 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Lateral Transfer Firefighter

This is a Full-Time position, generally working 7:00am - 7:00am per designated shift (i.e., 24 hours on, 48 hours off). Designated work hours are subject to change on a permanent or temporary basis and include working First Shift, Second Shift, Third Shift, Weekends, and Holidays.

To be considered for lateral transfer firefighter, you must have been employed within the past 12 months as a full-time firefighter with another fire department.

Applications are accepted year-round for this position. However, the City will only review and consider applications as vacancies occur. City holds entry-level firefighter recruitments on an annual basis.

This job reports to the Captain or Lieutenant, as assigned, or as otherwise designated by management.

Relocation is not provided.

Interested lateral transfer applicants only: We are currently accepting applications for lateral transfers for entry level firefighter. Please read the below information before applying to ensure that you meet our requirements.

Job Skills/Requirements

The City of Owensboro, at its discretion, may accept lateral transfers of firefighters from other agencies at any time, as long as such persons meet the following criteria. Such persons are not required to participate in the competitive testing process.

Examples of Duties

Performs as member of the Owensboro Fire Department to ensure quality performance in saving lives, property, conservation, extinguishing fires, and responding to medical and other emergencies.

Typical Qualifications

Lateral transfers shall be limited to firefighters who have successfully completed and maintained the following training and certifications:

  • IFSAC Firefighter I,
  • IFSAC Firefighter II,
  • IFSAC Hazardous Materials Awareness,
  • IFSAC Hazardous Materials Operations,
  • NREMT-Basic and/or ability to reciprocate with Kentucky Board of EMS for EMT-Basic certification,

Candidates for lateral transfer must have at least two (2) consecutive years full-time paid firefighter experience.

Current CPAT cards are required at the time of hire for out-of-state applicants, and for in-state applicants that are not members of a fire department that participates in the incentive program. A successful out-of-state applicant is required to convert training to Kentucky State Fire Rescue Training and Kentucky Board of EMS requirements.

Supplemental Information

If considered, and/or if offered a position, prior to hire, lateral transfers shall satisfactorily complete the following, but not limited to:

Comprehensive background checks, including but not limited to, polygraph, criminal, employment and personal references, motor vehicle record

Oral interview

Post-offer, pre-employment drug screen, physical exam, psychological evaluation, and any other necessary medical evaluations/screenings must be satisfactorily completed.

Excellent pay and benefits. The City of Owensboro offers a competitive base wage and benefit package, as well as participates in the State of Kentucky Firefighter Training Incentive program that currently stands at $4,562 per year.


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