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Paid Firefighter Jobs in Springfield, MA (NOW HIRING)

Emergency Fire and Rescue

Hartford, CT · On-site

$16.50 - $19.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Trained in firefighting, ship stability and chemical, radiological and biological warfare defense ... Paid training * College credit EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES * Undergraduate degree opportunities * Navy ...

Emergency Fire and Rescue

Springfield, MA · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Trained in firefighting, ship stability and chemical, radiological and biological warfare defense ... Paid training * College credit EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES * Undergraduate degree opportunities * Navy ...

AVIATION BOATSWAINS MATE, AIRCRAFT FUELS

Springfield, MA · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Training and directing firefighting crews, fire rescue teams and damage control parties assigned to ... A retirement plan * Paid training EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES * Navy College Program and Tuition ...

AVIATION BOATSWAINS MATE, AIRCRAFT FUELS

Hartford, CT · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Training and directing firefighting crews, fire rescue teams and damage control parties assigned to ... A retirement plan * Paid training EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES * Navy College Program and Tuition ...

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Showing results 1-20

Paid Firefighter information

See Springfield, MA salary details

$28.4K

$59.4K

$99.7K

How much do paid firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for paid firefighter in Springfield, MA is $59,398.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,300.00 and $68,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges paid firefighters face during a typical shift?

Paid firefighters often encounter unpredictable and high-pressure situations, including responding to fires, medical emergencies, and hazardous material incidents. Shifts can be physically demanding and may last 24 hours, requiring teamwork, quick decision-making, and strong communication skills. Additionally, firefighters must maintain equipment, participate in ongoing training, and complete detailed reports, all while balancing the emotional toll of emergency response work. Effective stress management and camaraderie within the team are essential to handling these challenges.

What is a paid firefighter?

Paid firefighters are professional emergency responders employed by municipal, county, or private fire departments to protect life and property from fires and other hazards. Unlike volunteer firefighters, paid firefighters receive a regular salary and benefits for their work. Their duties include responding to fire alarms, medical emergencies, hazardous material incidents, and conducting fire prevention education. They typically undergo rigorous training and must meet physical and educational requirements. Paid firefighters often work in shifts to provide 24/7 emergency coverage.

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

To thrive as a Paid Firefighter, you need strong physical fitness, emergency medical training, and completion of fire academy certification, often with a high school diploma or GED as a baseline. Familiarity with firefighting equipment, emergency response systems, and specialized certifications like EMT or paramedic credentials are commonly required. Teamwork, quick decision-making, and resilience under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities are crucial for effective emergency response, ensuring safety, and providing life-saving services in high-risk situations.

How do you become a paid firefighter?

To become a paid firefighter, candidates typically need to complete a high school diploma or equivalent, pass physical fitness tests, and obtain firefighter training through a fire academy or training program. Many departments also require certification such as Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and passing written and practical exams, followed by applying for open positions and undergoing interviews and background checks.

What is the difference between Paid Firefighter vs Volunteer Firefighter?

AspectPaid FirefighterVolunteer Firefighter
CredentialsFirefighter certification, EMT/paramedic license often requiredBasic training, certification varies by department
Work EnvironmentFull-time, scheduled shifts at fire stationsPart-time, on-call basis, often at local fire departments
Employer & Industry UsageEmployed by city, county, or municipal agenciesOperates within volunteer fire departments, community-based

Paid firefighters typically work full-time with formal training and certifications, providing emergency services as their primary job. Volunteer firefighters serve part-time, often balancing other jobs, and assist in emergencies without regular pay. Both roles are vital for community safety but differ mainly in employment status, compensation, and work commitments.

What are popular job titles related to Paid Firefighter jobs in Springfield, MA?

For Paid Firefighter jobs in Springfield, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Paid Firefighter jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Paid Firefighter job openings:

Firefighter (Basic Life Support)

The Air Force Civilian Service

Springfield, MA • On-site

$87K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Air Force Civilian Service rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 98 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Come be a part of something big! Smart Minds, Cool Jobs and Awesome Rewards! Fueled by innovation, talent and ambition, the Air Force Civilian Service (AFCS) is seeking civilian professionals prepared to deploy war-winning capabilities on behalf of the United States Air Force.
Experience a fabulous career as a Firefighter (Basic Life Support), (GS-0081-07) as part of America's Federal civil service! The Air Force Civilian Service (AFCS) is recruiting for Full-time/TERM Firefighter (Basic Life Support), to work with 439th Civil Engineering SQ Fire Operations, Westover ARB, Chicopee MA.
The job duties of this position are to perform as a Firefighter (Basic Life Support) assigned to a crew engaged in airfield, structural firefighting, crash-rescue operations; to drive and operate firefighting vehicles of significant complexity; and to assist in reducing and/or eliminating potential fire hazards to protect persons, property, or the environment; and performance of non-invasive emergency medical procedures.
***Firefighting positions receive special retirement pay, and approved overtime***
--Starting Pay $87K/year--
****Position is eligible for paid PCS****
***This is a Federal Government civilian position - no active or reserve duty commitments***
DUTIES:
• Performs Basic Life Support.
• Drives and operate firefighting vehicles, such as pumpers, aerial ladder trucks, and Airport Rescue Firefighting (ARFF) vehicles.
• Performs crash-rescue and firefighting duties involving air traffic or support operations where hazardous conditions are such that the expectancy for fire is high and potential for becoming destructive is great.
• Performs structural firefighting duties for a variety of facilities, which may include large multistoried buildings, industrial areas, and/or base storage facilities.
• Maintains firefighting equipment and fire station facilities.
• Comply with health, safety, and environmental rules and procedures and performs work in a manner that enhances the safety of the work environment.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES (KSA's):
• Knowledge to drive and operate firefighting vehicles of significant complexity, and of the
principles of hydraulics as they pertain to water flow, water pressure, water levels, line
(friction) losses, etc.
• Knowledge of basic and specialized airfield and structural firefighting equipment (fire alarm system operation, fire extinguishing equipment operation, etc.), techniques, and procedures.
• Knowledge of basic building design, construction, and occupancy; and of the latest changes in aircraft cockpit design, ordnance placement, and cabin layouts to include the operation of hatch or canopy release mechanisms, ejection seat mechanisms, and/or oxygen supply systems.
• Knowledge of basic life support techniques and protocols.
• Knowledge of safety requirements as outlined in applicable safety standards, regulations, and/or technical orders.
• Skill in operating communications equipment.
• Ability to apply basic life support techniques and protocols; maintain good working relations; communicate orally and in writing; and lift and carry heavy loads.
BENEFITS:
VACATION TIME
• Based upon length of employment ... start at 13 days and earn up to 26 days
INSURANCE - No waiting period to qualify for health insurance for you and your family
RETIREMENT - Immediate coverage by the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), part of a three-tiered system which contains:
• Basic Benefits Plan
• Social Security
• Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), similar to a 401 (k)
For tips on how to write a Federal Resume, checkout the following link(s):
https://afciviliancareers.com/PDF/FederalResumeWriting.pdf
To receive additional information about current and future job openings with AFCS via email notification, please subscribe at www.Afciviliancareers.com and sign up to "Get Career Updates."
AFCS is Equal Opportunity Employer. U.S. citizenship required. Must be of legal working age.
KEY REQUIREMENTS:
• U.S. Citizenship Required
• Employees must participate in a mandatory physical fitness program.
• Employees are required to use all safety equipment and clothing provided by management.
• The employee is required to work a 144 biweekly work schedule of 48 on, 72 off, 48 on, 72 off, 48 on, 48 off rotational basis which includes weekends and holidays. May be subject to recall.
• This position is designated by the Air Force as a Testing Designated Position (TDP) under the Air Force civilian drug-testing program. As a mandatory requirement for employment in this TDP, the incumbent is to (a) refrain from the use of illegal drugs and (b) if required, submit to urinalysis testing. The selectee must sign statements acknowledging the position is identified as a TDP.
• This position requires the employee to work under adverse environmental conditions and falls under the respiratory protection program and hearing conservation program.
• The work requires the employee to drive a motor vehicle. An appropriate, valid driver's license is required.
• Position requires the ability to discern colors, contrast, and depth.
• May be required to work the Fire Alarm and Communications Center (FACC).
• May be required to participate on Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Teams.
• May be required to perform duties associated with the operation of aircraft arresting barrier equipment.
• Employees are required to be certified by the Department of Defense (DOD) Firefighter
• Certification System as Firefighter II (includes Firefighter I), HAZMAT Awareness, and HAZMAT Operations.
• Employee is required to obtain and maintain the following certifications within twenty-four (24) months of assignment of these duties: Apparatus Driver Operator - Pumper, Apparatus Driver Operator - Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting, Apparatus Driver Operator- Mobile Water Supply (MWS) National Registry Emergency Medical
Technician (NREMT)- Basic Life Support (EMT-B) certification.
• Special Retirement Provisions Authority:
- FERS
Position covered as rigorous under the FERS special retirement provisions for Federal firefighters
[5 U.S.C. 8401(14), 5 U.S.C. 8412(d), and 5 CFR 842.802]. Authority, Under Secretary of Defense
- CSRS
Position covered as rigorous under the CSRS special retirement provisions for Federal firefighters
[5 U.S.C. 8331(21), 5 U.S.C. 8336(c), and 5 CFR 831.902]. Authority, Under Secretary of Defense Note: Special retirement coverage is effectively retroactive to the date of the personnel action of this SCPD. See Special Retirement Coverage Memo in Classification Remarks.
• Review "Notes to Users #1" for additional information on addressing unique/local requirements of the position. Add additional requirements here as needed.
• This position is designated as a key position IAW AFI 36-507. Duties of this position are essential to the accomplishment of wartime/contingency operations. Incumbents of key positions must be removed from their military recall status if alternative for filling of the position during an emergency are not available.
• This is a Mission Essential (ME) position performing a Mission Critical Function (MCF) which must continue uninterrupted after the occurrence of an emergency and continue through full resumption of all functions. IAW, DoDI 3020-42, Defense Continuity Programs.
• The work requires the employee to drive a motor vehicle. An appropriate, valid driver's license may be required.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain the appropriate security clearance.

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