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Local Firefighter Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Paramedic

Rochester, NY · On-site

$28.75 - $34.25/hr

Communicate with emergency dispatchers, firefighters, law enforcement, and healthcare professionals ... federal, state, or local law. Rochester Regional Health is an integrated health services ...

Paramedic - CCT

Rochester, NY · On-site

$29.75 - $35.25/hr

Communicate with emergency dispatchers, firefighters, law enforcement, and healthcare professionals ... federal, state, or local law. Rochester Regional Health is an integrated health services ...

Local Firefighter information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$28.1K

$58.8K

$98.7K

How much do local firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for local firefighter in Rochester, NY is $58,812.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,900.00 and $68,100.00 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 Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of Firefighter jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Local Firefighter jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Local Firefighter job openings:

Infographic showing various Local Firefighter job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,812 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Emergency Services Health and Safety Coordinator, prov. - Fire and EMS Bureau

Monroe County, NY

Rochester, NY • On-site

$56K - $75K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Monroe County (New York) rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

599th of 851 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Location: Rochester, NY
Title: Emergency Services Health and Safety Coordinator, prov. - Fire and EMS Bureau
Deadline: Until Filled
Salary: $56,714 - $75,512 annually
Agency/Dept.: Public Safety
Description of Duties
This position, located in the Department of Public Safety, is responsible for planning, developing, and coordinating health and safety initiatives for Monroe County. The employee will serve as a countywide leader in responder health and safety, working in partnership with local fire districts, fire departments, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) agencies, and associations to implement best practices, enhance accountability, and strengthen prevention programs. Duties include the coordination and support of safety officer functions, development of cancer prevention, peer fitness, and mental health initiatives. The employee serves as the liaison between the Monroe County Fire Bureau and the Monroe County Safety Officers Association, as well as EMS leadership partners as appropriate. The position also participates in countywide fire prevention, EMS safety, and public safety campaigns. The incumbent will be responsible for the leadership, coordination, and organization of the Juvenile Fire Setters Intervention Program, including working collaboratively with at-risk youth and partner agencies throughout the county to support prevention, education, and early intervention efforts. The employee reports directly to, and works under the general supervision of the Fire Coordinator. Supervision of others is not a regular responsibility, although the incumbent may lead project teams or committees. Does related work as required.
Minimum Qualifications
PROPOSED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Graduation from high school or possession of an equivalency diploma, plus either:
(A) Graduation with a Bachelor's degree in Fire Science, Occupational Safety, Emergency Management, Public Administration, or a closely related field, plus one (1) year paid full-time or its part-time equivalent experience in emergency services health and safety program development; OR,
(B) Graduation an Associate's degree in one of the fields mentioned in (A) above, plus three (3) years paid full-time or its part-time equivalent experience as described in (A) above; OR,
(C) Five (5) years paid full-time or its part-time equivalent experience as described in (A) above; OR,
(D) An equivalent combination of education and experience as defined by the limits of (A), (B), and (C) above.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS : Possession of the following: (**must submit copies of certificates at the time of application.)
1. Firefighter I, Basic Firefighter, Essentials of Firemanship, or Initial Fire Attack Certificate**.
2.Current certification** from the New York State Department of Health as an Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic (EMT-P), Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT), or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).
3. Apparatus Operator Emergency Vehicles or Apparatus Operator-EVOC Certificate or similarly named fire training certificate** issued upon completion of an emergency vehicle operator's course.
4. Current certification** from the National Incident Management System (NIMS) for IS-100, IS-200, IS-700, and IS-800 courses.

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