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Metro Fire Department Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dispatcher

Centennial, CO ยท On-site

$61K - $89K/yr

South Metro Fire Rescue's compensation philosophy is designed to attract and retain highly skilled ... Department of Labor.

Firefighter 1 - AEMT

Atlanta, GA ยท On-site

$60K/yr

FirstNet (AT&T) Employee Phone Discount We hope you will consider the SSFD and reach for an opportunity to be a member of the premier metro area fire department. Purpose of Classification The purpose ...

Firefighter/EMT Lateral

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$71K - $115K/yr

Join the Arlington County Fire Department as a Lateral Transfer! Are you a motivated current ... Respond to emergencies in an urban community of over 235,000 residents with high-rises, a metro ...

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Metro Fire Department information

See salary details

$10

$26

$47

How much do metro fire department jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for metro fire department in the United States is $26.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $31.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Metro Fire Department?

A Metro Fire Department is a municipal or regional public safety organization responsible for providing fire protection, emergency medical services, rescue operations, and disaster response within a metropolitan area. These departments are typically staffed by professional firefighters and paramedics who respond to emergencies, conduct fire prevention education, and perform fire inspections. Metro Fire Departments often work closely with other emergency services and serve densely populated urban and suburban communities to ensure public safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Metro Fire Department firefighter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Metro Fire Department firefighter, you need physical fitness, emergency response training, and often EMT certification, along with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with fire suppression equipment, rescue tools, and emergency communication systems is typically required. Outstanding teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure effective response to emergencies, safeguarding the community and supporting the safety of both the public and the team.

How much does Metro Fire pay?

Metro Fire Department firefighters' salaries typically start around $50,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience, rank, and location. Advanced positions or specialized roles may earn higher wages, and firefighters often receive benefits such as overtime pay, health insurance, and retirement plans.

Can firefighters make $100,000?

Firefighters in the Metro Fire Department can potentially earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with overtime, experience, and specialized certifications. Salaries vary by location, rank, and years of service, with higher pay often available for those in leadership or with advanced skills. Entry-level firefighters typically earn less, but experienced personnel and those working in high-cost areas may reach or exceed this salary level.

What is the difference between Metro Fire Department vs Firefighter?

AspectMetro Fire DepartmentFirefighter
CertificationsFirefighter I & II, EMT certificationFirefighter I & II, EMT certification
Work EnvironmentUrban fire stations, emergency responseUrban and suburban fire stations, emergency response
Employer & IndustryMunicipal fire departments, public safetyMunicipal fire departments, public safety
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Metro Fire Department and Firefighter roles share similar certifications, work environments, and industry usage. The main difference is that 'Metro Fire Department' refers to the organization or agency, while 'Firefighter' describes the role performed within such agencies. Essentially, a Firefighter works for a Metro Fire Department, making the terms closely related but distinct in context.

What are some common challenges faced by new recruits in a Metro Fire Department, and how are they supported through their initial training period?

New recruits in a Metro Fire Department often face challenges such as adapting to the physical demands of the job, quickly learning emergency protocols, and integrating into a close-knit team environment. During the initial training period, recruits receive comprehensive support through structured academy programs, mentorship from experienced firefighters, and regular evaluations to track progress. The department fosters a culture of teamwork and continuous learning, ensuring recruits have access to resources and guidance needed to succeed and build confidence on the job.

What does 555 mean to a firefighter?

In firefighting, 555 is a common radio code used to indicate a fire or emergency situation. Firefighters rely on radio codes to communicate quickly and efficiently during incidents, and 555 typically signals a call for assistance or a significant event requiring response. Understanding and using these codes is essential for effective communication on the scene.

Is 30 too old to be a fireman?

The Metro Fire Department and most fire departments typically accept applicants up to their mid-30s, provided they meet physical fitness, medical, and background requirements. Age limits vary by department, but many agencies value experience and maturity, making 30 generally a suitable age to start a firefighting career.
More about Metro Fire Department jobs
What states have the most Metro Fire Department jobs? States with the most job openings for Metro Fire Department jobs include:
Infographic showing various Metro Fire Department job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,172 per year, or $26 per hour.
Dispatcher

$61K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

EMERGENCY SERVICES DISPATCHER
Accepting ongoing applications
Reports To: Emergency Services Dispatch Supervisor
Division: Emergency Services
FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt
Salary Range: $61,217 - $89,351 (with additional earning potential through an average of 225 hours of overtime annually)
GENERAL INFORMATION
Applicants must be 18 years of age with a high school diploma, GED, or post-high school education at a technical or college level with two (2) years of related experience is preferred.
Candidates with less experience who possess comparable public safety experience will also be considered including military communications.
All qualified candidates will go through our selection process that includes successfully passing a CritiCall test and a panel interview.
*Candidates must attach a copy of their resume and cover letter with their application package to be considered.*
Our Emergency Communications Center is an IAES & ACE Accredited Dispatch Center that responds to an average of 48,000 calls per year and serves as secondary PSAP dispatching EMS and Fire resources. Dispatchers function at all positions on a rotation: call taking, radio, system status, operations talk groups, and support.
For job information and videos about our Dispatchers, please click the links below!
Dispatch Job Description
"I Tried 911" video
A Day in the Life - Dispatcher YouTube video
FULL-TIME DISPATCHER
  • Flexible Schedule:
    • Modified Kelly Schedule/Berkley Schedule:
      • On-Off-On-Off-On-Off for 4 days
      • Currently, we offer 24 or 12-hour shifts
    • Holiday pay for holidays worked
  • Advancement Opportunities:
    • Growth: Lead Dispatcher, Dispatch Supervisor
    • Specialties: Incident Dispatch Team (IDT), Certified Training Officer (CTO), Public Education Team
    • Candidates progress through an annual pay progression based on performance and meeting the requirements of the next pay tier
  • Benefits:
    • Robust benefits package with medical, dental, and vision
    • PTO plans
    • Tuition Reimbursement
    • Employee Assistance Program and more!

South Metro Fire Rescue's compensation philosophy is designed to attract and retain highly skilled and motivated employees. As such, SMFR's compensation is more than base pay. All regular fulltime SMFR employees enjoy a total compensation package including: base wages, leave accruals, medical, dental, vision and life insurance employer paid premiums, Retiree Health Savings, Death & Disability and employer paid pension contributions as well as a positive work culture including a robust Fitness, Wellness and Rehabilitation Program, educational opportunities and support, job security and other positive non-monetary values which are intended to collectively position SMFR as an employer of choice in its geographic area. SMFR recognizes that being an employer of choice has different meaning to different people depending on what elements a person highly values. But SMFR's overall goal is to be a great place to work.
2026 COMPENSATION:
Dispatcher I
$42.95 /hour
Dispatcher II
$37.42 /hour
Dispatcher III
$32.82/hour
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.