ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Volunteer Firefighter Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

LifeWise Academy

Volunteer

Decatur, IL · On-site

Overview LifeWise Academy is seeking volunteers to assist children in their LifeWise classes. LifeWise Academy is a Bible-based character education program that exists to reach public school students ...

All JobsVolunteer Firefighter JobsVolunteer Firefighter Jobs in Decatur, IL

Volunteer Firefighter information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$8

$18

$26

How much do volunteer firefighter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer firefighter in Decatur, IL is $18.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $20.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a volunteer firefighter?

Volunteer firefighters are individuals who offer their time and skills without pay to help protect their communities from fires and other emergencies. They undergo training and respond to emergency calls alongside or in support of full-time firefighters. In addition to fighting fires, volunteer firefighters often assist with rescue operations, medical emergencies, and public safety education. Their dedication is essential, especially in rural or smaller communities where full-time fire departments may not be available.

What does a volunteer firefighter do?

A volunteer firefighter serves their community, either with a volunteer company or alongside career firefighters and first responders. As a volunteer firefighter, you respond to a variety of emergency situations, such as natural disasters, fires, and medical emergencies. Your responsibilities may also include assisting with rescue missions, restocking supplies, cleaning the fire trucks, and answering emergency calls. You need excellent communication skills and the ability to follow orders to serve as a volunteer firefighter.

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

To thrive as a Volunteer Firefighter, you need physical fitness, basic firefighting training, and often completion of certification courses such as Firefighter I or CPR. Familiarity with firefighting equipment, emergency communication systems, and rescue tools is typically required. Strong teamwork, resilience under pressure, and a commitment to community service are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure effective emergency response, personal safety, and the ability to protect lives and property in high-stress situations.

What are some common challenges volunteer firefighters face when balancing firefighting duties with other personal or professional commitments?

Volunteer Firefighters often juggle their firefighting responsibilities with full-time jobs, family commitments, and personal obligations. This role can require responding to emergency calls at unpredictable hours, which may interrupt daily routines or planned activities. Time management and strong communication with both the fire department and personal networks are crucial for maintaining this balance. Additionally, ongoing training and community events may add to the time commitment, but many departments offer flexible scheduling and support to help volunteers succeed.

What is the difference between Volunteer Firefighter vs Firefighter?

AspectVolunteer FirefighterFirefighter
Required CertificationsBasic firefighting training, CPR, first aidAdvanced firefighting certifications, EMT/paramedic license often required
Work EnvironmentCommunity-based, often part-time, rural or suburban areasFull-time, urban or suburban fire departments
Employer & Industry UsageVolunteer fire departments, local governmentPaid fire departments, municipal agencies
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding volunteer roles, training, and responsibilitiesFull-time career options, qualifications, and duties

Volunteer Firefighters typically serve part-time in community-based departments with basic training, while Firefighters are full-time professionals with advanced certifications working in urban or suburban settings. Both roles are vital for emergency response but differ mainly in commitment level, training, and employment status.

Can I be a volunteer firefighter with no experience?

Yes, many volunteer fire departments accept individuals with no prior experience, as training is provided on-site. Volunteers typically complete basic firefighting and emergency response courses and must meet age and health requirements before participating in firefighting activities.

Do volunteer firefighters ever get paid?

Volunteer firefighters typically do not receive a salary for their service, as their role is based on community service and volunteering. However, they may be reimbursed for expenses or receive stipends for training or on-call duties, depending on the department's policies.

How to get started as a volunteer firefighter?

To become a volunteer firefighter, you typically need to meet age requirements, pass a physical fitness test, complete firefighter training courses, and obtain necessary certifications such as CPR and first aid. You should contact your local fire department or volunteer organization to learn about specific application processes and scheduling commitments.

Is becoming a volunteer firefighter worth it?

Volunteer firefighters play a crucial role in emergency response, gaining skills in firefighting, rescue operations, and teamwork. The position often involves irregular hours and physical demands but can provide valuable experience, community service, and personal fulfillment without a full-time commitment.
More about Volunteer Firefighter jobs

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Volunteer Firefighter jobs in Decatur, IL?

For Volunteer Firefighter jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Volunteer Firefighter jobs?

Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Volunteer Firefighter job openings:

Volunteer Firefighter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Volunteer Firefighter job openings in Decatur, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,797 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Volunteer

LifeWise Academy

Decatur, IL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Overview
LifeWise Academy is seeking volunteers to assist children in their LifeWise classes. LifeWise Academy is a Bible-based character education program that exists to reach public school students with the gospel during school hours.
Job Responsibilities
  • Model positive behavior
    • Strive to model godly character
    • Set the example for classroom behavior
    • Actively listen during Bible lessons
    • Participate in classroom activities
  • Develop relationships with students
    • Learn the students' names
    • Get to know the students
    • Pull up a chair or walk around the room during activities and chat
  • Assist with classroom management (as needed or directed)
    • Assist the teacher(s) with students who behave inappropriately during class
    • Stand or sit next to the student
    • Remind the student of the desired behavior(e.g., listen quietly)
    • Relocate the student to another desk (away from other students) if the inappropriate behavior continues
  • Help with classroom activities
    • Pass out pencils, pens, crayons, Bibles, papers, etc.
    • Help lead class games
    • Sit with and provide extra help to students with special needs
  • Escort students to the restroom
    • Stand outside the restroom while the student is inside
  • Chaperone children to and from their LifeWise classes (as needed)
  • Other responsibilities as assigned

Qualifications and Experience
  • A mature personal Christian faith in agreement with the "What We Believe" section of the LifeWise Academy Statement of Faith
  • Active participation in and commitment to a local church whose doctrine aligns with the "What We Believe" section of the LifeWise Academy Statement of Faith

LifeWise Academy's hiring practices and EEO Statement are fully in compliance with both federal and state law. Federal law creates an exception to the "religion" section of employment discrimination laws for religious organizations and permits them to give employment preference to members of their own religion. LifeWise Academy is in that category.
Classification: Volunteer
Employment Type: Part-Time
Grid Level: 1a

Apply