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Temporary Firefighter Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

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Temporary Firefighter information

See Arizona salary details

$26.6K

$55.5K

$93.2K

How much do temporary firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for temporary firefighter in Arizona is $55,546.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,400.00 and $64,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a temporary firefighter?

Temporary Firefighters are personnel hired for a limited period, often to meet increased staffing needs during peak fire seasons or to cover for regular staff absences. Their duties typically mirror those of permanent firefighters, including responding to fires, medical emergencies, and other incidents. They undergo similar training and must meet the same physical and educational requirements as full-time firefighters. Temporary Firefighters play a vital role in maintaining public safety during times of high demand.

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

To thrive as a Temporary Firefighter, you need fundamental firefighting knowledge, physical fitness, and completion of firefighter training such as Firefighter I/II certification. Familiarity with fire suppression equipment, emergency communication systems, and safety protocols is essential. Strong teamwork, quick decision-making, and resilience under pressure are important soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure effective emergency response, personal and team safety, and the ability to protect lives and property during critical incidents.

What are some common challenges faced by temporary firefighters, and how can they successfully integrate into an established fire crew?

Temporary Firefighters often face the challenge of quickly adapting to new teams and protocols, as each fire department may have slightly different operating procedures and equipment. Building rapport and trust with permanent crew members is essential, as effective communication and teamwork are critical during emergencies. Temporary Firefighters can integrate successfully by being proactive in asking questions, participating fully in training sessions, and demonstrating reliability during drills and real incidents. Flexibility, a strong work ethic, and openness to feedback help ensure a smooth transition and positive working relationships with the rest of the crew.

What is the difference between Temporary Firefighter vs Firefighter?

AspectTemporary FirefighterFirefighter
CredentialsBasic fire training, certification as required by local regulationsSame as Temporary Firefighter, often with additional certifications for full-time roles
Work EnvironmentTemporary assignments, often part-time or seasonalFull-time, permanent fire stations, emergency response
Employer & IndustryFire departments, emergency services, often contracted or seasonalMunicipal fire departments, full-time emergency services
Search & ComparisonOften compared for short-term vs long-term employmentStandard career path in firefighting

Temporary Firefighters typically work on short-term or seasonal basis, holding similar certifications as full-time firefighters but with less job security. Full-time Firefighters have permanent positions, more extensive training, and consistent employment. Both roles require firefighting certifications, but the main difference lies in employment duration and job stability.

What are the most commonly searched types of Firefighter jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Firefighter jobs in Arizona are:

Infographic showing various Temporary Firefighter job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,546 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Helitack)

Williams, AZ • On-site

$62K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

These positions are located on a USDA Forest Service Unit.
The incumbent serves as first line supervisor of a crew of helitack personnel/firefighters that are established to provide fast initial attack, and large fire support and utilizes helicopters in support of all types of incidents.
See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION for Regional contacts.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. Transcripts must be provided for qualifications based on education. Provide course descriptions as necessary.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GW-07 level: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-06) in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Oversaw helicopter service contract and enforced contract provisions; Conducted training in the techniques of aviation, fire suppression, prescribed burning and fuels reduction methods; Performed many technical specializations such as helicopter rappelling, long line, felling, saw repair or water handling used in fire suppression and prescribed burning independently; Communicated critical information pertaining to incident objectives, situations and tactics to pilot(s), crews and dispatchers.
For the GW-08 level: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-07) in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Planned and coordinated complex fire and aviation operations at a temporary or fixed base work location; determined helicopter load limits, takeoff and landing sites, and estimated time requirements; analyzed fire conditions and determined attack methods and resources required; conducted hands-on training pertaining to program and personnel needs related to fire and aviation.
Selective Placement Factors
Successful completion of the Primary NWCG Core Requirement of Helicopter Manager, Single Resource (HMGB) and Incident Commander Type 4 (ICT4). In addition, successful completion of the Secondary NWCG Core Requirements of Helibase Manager Trainee (HEBM(t)).
Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) and Forest Service - Fire Program Management (FS-FPM) qualifications must be met by the time of selection. Most recent IQCS master record and/or signed Agency Certified task book must be attached to your application. If you are selected, you may be required to submit an updated IQCS master record or signed Agency Certified task book as proof of attainment of IFPM requirements prior to a final verbal offer.
In order to be considered for this position, copies of your Incident Qualification and Certification System (IQCS) Master Record (or equivalent training documents) which contain documented proof of the certification or attainment of the IFPM Selective Placement Factor for this position MUST be attached to your application. Red cards are not acceptable documentation. Currency Requirement: Required to maintain currency once hired into the position. Currency of NWCG qualifications is not required for selection. If not currently qualified, the applicant must provide documented evidence that they have been fully qualified in the past, and are able to regain currency within one year of being hired. Failure to provide this documentation will result in disqualification.
Primary firefighter positions include the following age requirements: Under age 37 -OR- less than age 37 after subtracting the months of Permanent Federal Service worked in a primary or secondary firefighter/law enforcement position -OR- a veteran preference eligible, older than age 37 and is requesting a waiver to the maximum age requirement -OR-currently occupy a permanent position with primary fire fighter retirement coverage.
For those who do not currently occupy a permanent Federal position covered under primary fire fighter retirement, you must be under age 37; less than age 37 after subtracting the months of Permanent Federal Service in a primary or secondary firefighter/law enforcement position; or a veteran preference eligible, older than age 37 and requesting a waiver to the requirement.
This position has been identified as (HIGH) or (MODERATE) or (LOW) Complexity under the Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) or Forest Service Fire Program Management (FS-FPM) and is subject to selective placement factor requirements contained in the Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) Standard and Guide when filling this vacancy. IFPM or FS-FPM selective placement factors are made up of a primary and secondary National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) core Incident Management Qualifications and Required Training. The applicant must possess these qualifications at the applicable complexity level to be considered eligible for this position.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
FIREFIGHTER RETIREMENT COVERAGE: This is a primary/rigorous position covered under the special retirement provisions of 5 USC 8336(c) for the Civil Service Retirement System and of 5 USC 8412(d) for the Federal Employees Retirement System.
WORK CAPACITY TEST (WCT) for Wildland Firefighters: This position participates in wildland firefighting activities. Based on the type of work performed, TAKING and PASSING the WCT at the ARDUOUS, MODERATE, or LIGHT level is a condition of employment.
To receive consideration for this position, you must provide updated required documents and meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.Education:There is no substitution of education for specialized experience.Employment Type: OTHER