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Local Firefighter Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Local Firefighter information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$29.4K

$61.4K

$103K

How much do local firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for local 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 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 Chicago, IL?

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

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

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

Local Firefighter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Local Firefighter job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% 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 • On-site

$24.54/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 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

498th 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.

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