There are many things to think about before you apply for a job in firefighting. Not only must you have a thorough knowledge of the job but you also need to pass an oral or written exam. These exams will assess your ability to solve problems, problem solve, and math skills. It is important for you to know that your salary will depend upon factors such as where you live, how much experience you have, and what rank you hold.
For example, to work as a wildland Firefighter, it is necessary to understand how to manage the environment so that fires can be controlled. Specialized training is required to deal with dangerous materials. There are many paid courses that can help you to improve your skills.
Although the average pay for a firefighter is $48,200 a year, you might be surprised to find out that you can earn more in some states than others. West Virginia, for instance, has the highest average salary among all the states. But it is also a costly state to live.
However, there are a few states that are cheaper than other states. North Dakota, which is 28th in cost, is one example. Louisiana is the third-cheapest.
You might be surprised to learn that firefighters can lose a lot of their pay due to the high cost of living. Georgia, Maine and Mississippi are the best places to live. Other states like Massachusetts and New York City, for example, are quite costly. The highest-paying states for firefighters are Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota. A number of Southern states offer top-notch salaries.
A promotion is necessary to obtain a higher salary. You will have a better chance of being promoted and negotiating a higher wage. There are many fire departments that offer promotions to their employees.
A base salary of $26 an hour is typical for someone just starting their career. Working more than eight hours per day will usually result in overtime. Your income can also depend on your area of firefighting, such as whether you are assigned to a shift schedule of 7-28 consecutive days.
Money is important but it won't make anyone feel like a hero. Real-life experience is the best way to establish a positive reputation. It will take time to reach the top in a career as a firefighter. So assess your ambitions now, and get the training and experience you need.
Although the average salary for a firefighter can't be fixed, it is usually higher than the average pay for paramedics and EMTs. You can expect to make between $48,200 and $123,000 depending on your level of skill and your area of firefighting.