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Local Firefighter Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Firefighter

Glasgow, KY ยท On-site

$41K/yr

Position Purpose Under close supervision, performs firefighting, fire prevention, and operating ... Be familiar with NPFA, state, and local fire prevention codes. * Ability to establish and maintain ...

Maintain compliance with personal Fire/Medical/Hazmat certifications as required by local mandate ... Industrial firefighter experience * Hazardous Materials Technician * NIMS Training 100, 200, 700 ...

Maintain compliance with personal Fire/Medical/Hazmat certifications as required by local mandate ... Industrial firefighter experience * Hazardous Materials Technician * NIMS Training 100, 200, 700 ...

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Local Firefighter information

What is a local firefighter?

Local firefighters are trained professionals who respond to fires, emergencies, and disasters within their communities. Their primary responsibilities include extinguishing fires, rescuing people and animals, providing emergency medical care, and promoting fire safety education. In addition to responding to emergencies, local firefighters often participate in drills, maintain firefighting equipment, and engage with the community to prevent fires and promote safety. They work in shifts and must be ready to respond at a moment's notice. Firefighters play a crucial role in protecting lives and property in their local area.

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

To excel as a Local Firefighter, you need physical fitness, knowledge of fire safety protocols, emergency medical training, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by EMT certification. Familiarity with firefighting equipment, breathing apparatus, and communication systems is crucial for effective response. Courage, teamwork, and strong problem-solving abilities help firefighters remain calm and effective under pressure. These skills and qualities are vital for protecting lives and property while ensuring personal and team safety during emergencies.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by local firefighters during their shifts?

Local firefighters often encounter unpredictable and high-pressure situations, such as rapidly changing fire conditions, medical emergencies, and hazardous materials incidents. Balancing physical demands with emotional resilience is essential, as the job can involve witnessing traumatic events and working long, irregular hours. Teamwork is crucial, as firefighters must communicate effectively and support one another in dangerous environments to ensure safety and successful outcomes.

What is the difference between Local Firefighter vs Volunteer Firefighter?

AspectLocal FirefighterVolunteer Firefighter
CertificationsFirefighter I & II, EMT certification often requiredMay require similar certifications, but sometimes less formal training
Work EnvironmentFull-time, paid position at fire stations or on emergency callsPart-time or on-call, often in community-based settings
Employer & Industry UsageEmployed by city or county fire departmentsTypically volunteer-based fire departments or community organizations
Search & Comparison IntentPeople seeking paid firefighting roles in local areasIndividuals interested in community service firefighting roles

Local Firefighters are full-time, paid professionals with formal training, working for municipal fire departments. Volunteer Firefighters, on the other hand, serve part-time or on-call, often with less formal training, and are usually part of community-based fire services. Both roles are vital for emergency response, but differ mainly in employment status and training requirements.

How hard is it to get into a local firefighter?

Becoming a local firefighter typically requires meeting minimum age and education requirements, passing physical fitness tests, and completing firefighter training and certification. Competitive entry often depends on passing written exams, interviews, background checks, and sometimes emergency medical technician (EMT) certification. The process can be challenging due to limited openings and the need for relevant skills and physical endurance.

How much do local firefighters make?

The average salary for a local firefighter in the United States is around $50,000 to $55,000 per year, though this can vary based on location, experience, and rank. Firefighters often work in shifts and may receive additional compensation for overtime, hazardous duty, or specialized training.

Is 27 too late to be a local firefighter?

Local firefighter roles typically require candidates to be at least 18 years old and to complete fire academy training, which can be started at various ages. Being 27 is generally not too late to pursue a firefighting career, as many firefighters begin in their late teens or early twenties and continue training and gaining experience throughout their careers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Firefighter jobs in Kentucky?

The most popular types of Firefighter jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Local Firefighter jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Local Firefighter job openings:

Infographic showing various Local Firefighter job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Firefighter

Glasgow, KY โ€ข On-site

City of Glasgow
Public Administrationย โ€ขย 201 - 500 employees

$41K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Position Purpose

Under close supervision, performs firefighting, fire prevention, and operating duties.

Essential Functions and Basic Duties

  • Responds to fire alarms.
  • Performs essential job tasks as described in NFPA 1582.
  • Performs extrication of victims from entrapment, utilizing various methods and tools.
  • Lays out and connects hoses.
  • Holds nozzles and directs water streams.
  • Raises and climbs ladders, uses fire extinguishers, bars, hooks, lines, and other equipment.
  • Responds to hazardous materials incidents and any other emergency response as necessary.
  • Removes people from danger and administers first aid to injured persons.
  • Performs salvage operations such as throwing salvage covers, sweeping water, and removing debris.
  • Participates in fire drills and attends classes in firefighting, first aid, and related subjects.
  • Performs general maintenance work in the upkeep of fire department property.
  • Cleans and washes walls, windows, and floors.
  • Makes minor repairs.
  • Washes, hangs, and dries hoses.
  • Washes, cleans, and polishes all fire department vehicles.
  • On assignment, may participate in one of several trades in maintaining, remodeling, constructing, altering, or repairing buildings, grounds, facilities, and equipment.
  • Assumes a turn at preparing meals.
  • Responsible for putting fire runs information into computer system.
  • Obtain fire report information on scene as relief driver.
  • Performs related work as required.

Qualifications

Training and Experience

  • Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of an equivalent GED certificate.

Special Requirements

  • Possession of a valid driver’s license.
  • Successful completion of required 13-week Fire Academy in Greenville, Kentucky or equivalent.
  • Ability to pass a physical examination.
  • Ability to successfully complete background and drug screenings.

Special Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Extensive knowledge of the City, including locations of street system and physical layout of the City, hydrants, knox boxes, and FDC’s.
  • Ability to learn a variety of firefighting duties and methods, including the operation of firefighting apparatus within a reasonable working test period.
  • Physical strength and agility and freedom from serious physical defects as indicated by a physical examination and the ability to perform arduous tasks under adverse weather and working conditions.
  • Ability to perform mechanical work involved in operating and maintaining firefighting apparatus.
  • Good physical condition and ability to maintain satisfactory fitness level.
  • Be familiar with NPFA, state, and local fire prevention codes.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

We do not discriminate on-the-basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth, pregnancy/childbirth related medical conditions age, or disability or any other protected class. It is our intention that all qualified applicants are given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors. If you need an accommodation to complete the application process, contact City of Glasgow at 270-651-5131.