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Part Time Firefighter Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Part Time Firefighter information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$28.2K

$58.9K

$98.9K

How much do part time firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for part time firefighter in Elgin, IL is $58,921.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,000.00 and $68,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a part time firefighter?

Part time firefighters, also known as paid-on-call or volunteer firefighters, are individuals who work on a less-than-full-time basis to respond to emergencies such as fires, accidents, and medical calls. They often have other primary jobs but are trained and available to assist the fire department when needed, typically on a scheduled basis or when called in. Their responsibilities are similar to those of full-time firefighters, including firefighting, rescue operations, and public education. Part time firefighters are essential in many communities, especially in smaller towns or rural areas where full-time staffing may not be feasible.

What are part-time jobs for firefighters?

A firefighter responds to emergency calls related to fires and other incidents. As a part-time firefighter, you work less than 40 hours per week on average. Some part-time firefighters perform firefighting duties during a specific, recurring shift, but you can also work on an on-call basis. In addition to responding to fires, your responsibilities include offering first aid during emergencies or performing rescue operations when necessary. A part-time firefighter takes part in their department's efforts to maintain fire trucks, hoses, and other equipment as well. You can also take steps to teach fire safety to members of the public.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a part time firefighter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Part Time Firefighter, you need strong physical fitness, knowledge of fire suppression and rescue techniques, and completion of firefighter training or certification. Familiarity with firefighting equipment, emergency medical systems, and communication devices is typically required. Teamwork, quick decision-making, and resilience under pressure are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure effective emergency response, personal safety, and public protection in high-stress situations.

What are some common scheduling challenges for part-time firefighters, and how are shifts typically managed?

Part-time firefighters often balance their firefighting duties with other jobs or personal commitments, which can make scheduling a challenge. Shifts are usually assigned based on availability, and many departments use flexible or on-call scheduling systems to accommodate part-time staff. Communication and advance planning are key, and it's common to coordinate closely with supervisors and fellow firefighters to ensure adequate coverage. Being adaptable and proactive in shift management can help part-time firefighters successfully meet both their professional and personal obligations.

What is the difference between Part Time Firefighter vs Volunteer Firefighter?

AspectPart Time FirefighterVolunteer Firefighter
Required CredentialsFirefighter certification, EMT license often requiredBasic training, certification varies by department
Work EnvironmentPaid, scheduled shifts at fire stationsUnpaid, on-call basis, community-based
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, municipal agenciesCommunity organizations, local fire departments

Part Time Firefighters are paid professionals with formal training working scheduled shifts at fire stations. Volunteer Firefighters are unpaid community members who respond to emergencies on an on-call basis. Both roles require firefighting certifications but differ mainly in compensation and work structure.

Is 25 too late to be a part time firefighter?

Part-time firefighter roles often have age requirements that vary by department, but many agencies accept applicants up to their late 20s or early 30s. Age is less important than physical fitness, training, and certification requirements such as EMT or firefighter training. Candidates at age 25 can typically pursue the necessary certifications and meet the qualifications for part-time firefighting positions.

Is part time firefighter firefighting worth it?

Part-time firefighting can be a rewarding way to serve the community while maintaining other employment or education. It often involves on-call shifts, basic firefighting certifications, and provides valuable experience, though it typically offers lower pay and fewer benefits compared to full-time positions.
More about Part Time Firefighter jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Firefighter jobs in Elgin, IL?

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

What are popular job titles related to Part Time Firefighter jobs in Elgin, IL?

For Part Time Firefighter jobs in Elgin, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Part Time Firefighter jobs?

Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Part Time Firefighter job openings:

Part Time Firefighter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Part Time Firefighter job openings in Elgin, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,921 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Part-Time Firefighter/Firefighter-Paramedic

McHenry Township Fire Protection District

Mchenry, IL • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Regular Part-time Hiring (No Experience Necessary)

The Position

As a member of the fire department, and under the general supervision of an officer, responds to medical emergencies, fires, and other emergency incidents to provide fire suppression and emergency medical service; operate and maintain a variety of rescue and firefighting apparatus and equipment; participate in firefighting, hazardous materials and other special teams incidents; fire prevention and training activities. This position involves working both assigned shifts (paid on premise) and responding off-duty (paid on call). On recommendation of the Fire Chief, this position is appointed by the Board of Trustees and is a part-time, non-commissioned, non- pensioned, at-will employee of the District.

Newly hired part-time Firefighters who do not possess First Responder, Emergency Medical Technician-Basic, and Basic Operations Firefighter certifications will be sent by the MTFPD to those courses at McHenry County College. As part of an Initial Training Agreement, individuals are responsible for the cost of course tuition and textbooks for these courses and will then be reimbursed over a defined period of time by the MTFPD. Complete and detailed information will be provided at the candidate orientation session.

All Firefighters are required to become licensed Paramedics through the Illinois Department of Public Health within five years of their date of hire. Individuals are responsible for the cost of course tuition and textbooks for these courses and will then be reimbursed or a defined period of time by the MTFPD.

Minimum Qualifications

  • High school diploma, G.E.D. certificate, or equivalent.
  • Legal resident of the United States of America.
  • Be 21 years of age or older, or between 18 and 21 years of age, and have been a member of a cadet program, or have a minimum of one (1) semester completed, and be actively enrolled in good standing in an accredited college program and working towards attainment of an associate's degree in Fire Science. Official, sealed college transcripts will be required at the time of application.
  • There are no residency requirements.
  • Successfully complete all phases of the testing and hiring process.
  • Possess a valid State Driver's License, Illinois or Wisconsin equivalent (for Wisconsin residents if applicable).
  • Be capable of reading, speaking, and writing in the English language.
  • Meet knowledge, health, and physical qualifications established by the District.
  • Pass a background investigation, pre-employment medical exam, and drug test.
  • Exhibit good moral character, temperate personal habits, and show evidence of an industrious work ethic.

The application process requires that at the time the application is submitted, the individual has previously completed the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT), including the optional ladder climb, with attainment date no earlier than one (1) year prior to the application deadline. Testing can be done through NTN or at any other facility that is licensed to conduct the CPAT.

Other agencies that conduct CPAT testing include:

  • Northeastern Illinois Public Safety Training Academy website https://www.nipsta.org/176/Firefighter- Testing
  • Naperville FD website - https://www.naperville.il.us/services/naperville-fire-department/programs-and-services/candidate-physical-ability-test-cpat-in-naperville/
  • Huntley FPD website - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cpat-candidate-physical-ability-test-tickets-151645763561
  • MABAS Division 24 website - http://mabas24.org/index.php/cpat
  • Central Illinois Fire Chiefs Association - https://centralillinoisfirechiefs.com/CPAT/CPAT.aspx
  • Or by searching 'CPAT' on the internet

Prospective applicants should note that the registration deadline for the CPAT may be several weeks prior to the event.

Application Requirements

  1. Carefully review the minimum qualifications and other information to ensure that you are qualified to test for the department.
  2. Go to National Testing Network (NTN) at www.nationaltestingnetwork.com and choose McHenry Township Fire Protection District.
  3. Successfully complete FireTeam testing through NTN. Scores from candidates who previously completed the test through NTN within one (1) year of the deadline established by the MTFPD will be accepted. Successful completion of the NTN test requires the following minimum scoring: Human Relations 70%, Mechanical Ability 60%, Math 70%, Reading 80%. Candidates must attain the minimum score in each area to be considered further.
  4. Complete a valid CPAT test, including the optional ladder climb, within one (1) year of the deadline established by the MTFPD.
  5. Submit a completed Employment Application and all required documentation by the deadline set by the MTFPD.
  6. Candidates will be contacted regarding the remaining steps in the testing and hiring process after the deadline.

Questions regarding the NTN testing process should be directed to NTN at 1-866-563-3882.

Questions regarding the McHenry Township Fire Protection District can be directed to Deputy Chief Karen Bush at bushkaren@fire.mtfpd.org

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