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Private Contractor Firefighter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wildfire Defense Systems, Inc.

Engine Boss

Salem, OR · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

... private sector wildfire service in the nation, encompassing a 22-state service area and ... Our firefighters are the heartbeat of our company, and we make it a priority to take care of you ...

New York State

Plant Utilities Engineer 1

Tupper Lake, NY · On-site

$56K - $68K/yr

... or private contractors. Handle various types of hazardous materials, such as refrigerants, Freon ... fireman/water tender, refrigerating engineer or engineman with the U.S Merchant Marine; Or 6. ...

StateJobsNY

Plant Utilities Engineer 1

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

... or private contractors. • Handle various types of hazardous materials, such as refrigerants ... fireman/water tender, refrigerating engineer or engineman with the U.S. Merchant Marine; Or 6. ...

New York State

Plant Utilities Assistant

Tupper Lake, NY

$42K - $52K/yr

... or private contractors. Handle various types of hazardous materials, such as refrigerants, Freon ... fireman/water tender, refrigerating engineer or engineman with the U.S. Merchant Marine; Or 6. ...

StateJobsNY

Plant Utilities Assistant

Tupper Lake, NY · On-site

$42K - $52K/yr

... or private contractors. • Handle various types of hazardous materials, such as refrigerants ... fireman/water tender, refrigerating engineer or engineman with the U.S. Merchant Marine; Or 6. ...

FMS Aerospace

Technical Writer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

... the Government Contracting (GovCon) industry. / Responsibilities * Create and Maintain ... Our parent company, Bridger Aerospace is an aerial firefighting and critical infrastructure support ...

New

FMS Aerospace

Accounting Manager

Huntsville, AL · On-site

... Contracting (GovCon) environment and wants to make a measurable impact across the organization ... Our parent company, Bridger Aerospace is an aerial firefighting and critical infrastructure support ...

FMS Aerospace

Accounting Manager

Huntsville, AL · On-site

... Contracting (GovCon) environment and wants to make a measurable impact across the organization ... Our parent company, Bridger Aerospace is an aerial firefighting and critical infrastructure support ...

New

Allied Universal

Security Officer - Armed

Atlanta, GA

$24/hr

Greet guests and employees, assisting where appropriate; escort visitors and contractors, secure ... Must have a minimum of three (2) years of law enforcement, military, or private armed security ...

Hornblower

Port Engineer - NYC Ferry

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private ... The Port Engineer is responsible for vendor and contractor relationship development. Additionally ...

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Private Contractor Firefighter information

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$28.5K

$59.6K

$100K

How much do private contractor firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for private contractor firefighter in the United States is $59,606.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much to hire private firefighters?

The cost to hire private firefighters varies depending on the scope of the services, location, and duration of the contract, but typically ranges from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars for large-scale or specialized firefighting support. Private firefighting companies often charge based on hourly rates, equipment needs, and personnel requirements, and contracts may include additional costs for emergency response or training. It is important to obtain detailed quotes and ensure the company has proper certifications and insurance.

How much does a private firefighter make?

Private firefighters' salaries vary depending on experience, location, and employer, but they typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually. Factors such as certifications, specialized training, and working in high-risk environments can influence pay rates.

What are some unique challenges faced by Private Contractor Firefighters compared to municipal firefighters?

Private Contractor Firefighters often work in diverse settings such as industrial sites, remote locations, or for government contracts, which can present unique challenges like varying safety protocols, unfamiliar environments, and irregular schedules. They may be deployed on short notice to disaster zones or wildland fires, requiring flexibility and adaptability. Additionally, collaboration with multiple agencies and clients means strong communication and the ability to quickly integrate into different teams are essential. These aspects make the role dynamic and rewarding for those who enjoy diverse experiences and problem-solving.

What does 5 5 5 mean to a firefighter?

In the context of a private contractor firefighter, the numbers 5 5 5 typically refer to a shift schedule, indicating five days on, five days off, and five days of work or rest, depending on the specific contract. This schedule helps manage staffing and ensures continuous coverage during fire seasons or emergency responses. Understanding shift patterns is important for planning rest, training, and maintaining readiness in firefighting roles.

What is a Private Contractor Firefighter?

A Private Contractor Firefighter is a trained professional hired by private companies or government agencies to provide firefighting services on a contractual basis, rather than as a direct employee of a public fire department. These firefighters often respond to wildfires, industrial fires, or emergencies in remote locations where specialized services are needed. They may work for private firefighting firms or as independent contractors, and their work can involve travel, long hours, and challenging conditions. Private contractor firefighters must meet certain training and certification requirements, similar to their public sector counterparts, to ensure they can perform their duties safely and effectively.

What is the difference between Private Contractor Firefighter vs Volunteer Firefighter?

AspectPrivate Contractor FirefighterVolunteer Firefighter
CredentialsFirefighter certification, specialized training, possibly EMT certificationBasic firefighter training, certification varies by region
Work EnvironmentPrivate fire suppression services, often contracted for industrial or private propertiesCommunity-based fire departments, local emergencies
Employer & IndustryPrivate companies, industrial sites, security firmsMunicipal fire departments, volunteer organizations

Private Contractor Firefighters are trained professionals working for private companies, often in industrial or specialized settings, with formal certifications. Volunteer Firefighters are community members providing firefighting services without pay, typically in local fire departments. Both roles require firefighting training but differ mainly in employment type and work environment.

Do people hire private firefighters?

Private contractors can hire firefighters for specialized roles such as wildfire suppression, industrial fire safety, or security at private facilities. These firefighters often have specific certifications and training, and are employed to supplement public firefighting efforts or provide specialized services outside of government agencies.
More about Private Contractor Firefighter jobs
What states have the most Private Contractor Firefighter jobs? States with the most job openings for Private Contractor Firefighter jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Private Contractor Firefighter jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Private Contractor Firefighter jobs are:
Private Contractor Firefighter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Private Contractor Firefighter job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 3% As Needed, 92% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,606 per year, or $28.7 per hour.
Engine Boss

Engine Boss

Wildfire Defense Systems, Inc.

Salem, OR • On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

About Wildfire Defense Systems, Inc.
Wildfire Defense Systems, Inc. ("WDS") is a Qualified Insurance Resource (QIR) operating the largest private sector wildfire service in the nation, encompassing a 22-state service area and specializing in wildfire education, loss prevention, and wildfire response services. Qualified Insurance Resources are defined as NWCG qualified or equivalent, wildland engines, tenders, hand crews, fire/liaison officers, and personnel working for or contracted by an insurance company with a mission to mitigate impacts on insured structures threatened by wildfire. WDS holds contracts with insurance companies to provide wildfire loss prevention services. WDS fields experienced, highly trained, safety-focused wildfire officers and fire personnel that hold a wide range of Federal Wildfire Incident Command position classifications necessary to meet or exceed all federal wildfire operation standards and codes including all requirements of the National Wildfire Coordinating Group ("NWCG") or equivalent. WDS is capable of providing more than 180 wildland engines and hundreds of fire personnel and support personnel. WDS has served large and small insurance clients since 2008.
WE'RE HIRING FOR THE 2026 FIRE SEASON!
Our firefighters are the heartbeat of our company, and we make it a priority to take care of you and your family. As an employer of choice our goal is to provide a challenging, progressive, and inclusive work environment which fosters personal leadership, career growth, and development for every employee. Join our team and together we will make a difference that changes the world of wildfire.
By Joining Wildfire Defense Systems:
  • You will be a part of the largest expansion of wildfire services currently occurring
  • You will play an active part in shaping your career journey through our unique Grade and Step system
  • You will help provide wildfire services across 22 states and Canada
  • You are guaranteed a 13/13 or 10/16 schedule

Engine Boss
The Engine Boss leads a single fire engine and attached personnel and is responsible for their safety on wildland incidents. The ENGB supervises assigned engine and personnel and reports to a WDS supervisor, Strike Team Leader/Task Force Leader, Liaison, senior Engine Boss, or another assigned supervisor.
Required Qualifications
  • Introduction to ICS (ICS-100)
  • Human Factors in the Wildland Fire Service (L-180)
  • Firefighter Training (S-130 - Field Day Required)
  • Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior (S-190)
  • NIMS: An Introduction (IS-700)
  • Wildland Fire Safety Training Annual Refresher (WFSTAR) (RT-130)
  • Firefighter Type 1 (S-131)
  • Crew Boss (Single Resource) (S-230)
  • Engine Boss (S-231) preferred
  • Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (S-290)
  • Completion and Certification of NWCG Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1) Position Task Book (PMS 311-14)
  • Completion and Certification of NWCG Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) Position Task Book (PMS 311-13)
  • Ability to pass a WCT (Work Capacity Test/Pack Test) at Arduous Level (Complete a 3 mile walk wearing a 45- pound pack in less than 45 minutes)
  • Employees must be 21 years of age or older.
  • DOT Medical Examiner's Certification (will be authorized by employer for qualified individuals)
  • Current driver's license with acceptable driving record
  • ENGBs hired after 9/19/2024 must have a valid passport and be willing and able to work in both the U.S. and Canada

What WDS Provides to Field Employees
  • Career full time seasonal positions, career full time annual positions
  • Full NWCG compliant engines and tenders
  • Ability to maintain and advance NWCG qualifications
  • Task books can transfer to future career positions
  • Daily diversity of tasks
  • Work center-based locations when not deployed on fire assignments or on-call assignments
  • Career advancement from FFT2-FFT1-ENGB-TFLD
  • Competitive wages exceeding federal standards
  • Overtime opportunities

What Benefits Are Provided to Eligible Firefighters
  • Medical, dental, & vision insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Access to Teladoc
  • Paid time off plus 48-hours of sick leave per year
  • 9-Paid company holidays
  • 401(k)
  • WDS contributes 3% to a Safe Harbor retirement plan with no employee match required
  • Company paid life insurance ($300K for Field Operations Employees)
  • Company paid AD&D ($300K for Field Operations Employees)
  • Company paid short-term and long-term disability
  • Voluntary life & accident insurance
  • Employee assistance and wellness programs
  • Employee discounts through Life Mart and Expert Voice

Wildfire Defense Systems, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Federal Law under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) requires drivers of Commercial Motor Vehicles engaged in interstate commerce must be at least 21 years of age. For this reason, applicants for this position must be at least 21 years of age to be considered.
The pay range for this role is:
35.55 - 45.27 USD per hour (Salem, OR)

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