How to become firefighterseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
$59,280
25th–75th pct. $44,490–$77,250
Top pay (est.)
$131,400
Top 10% $101,040
Pay in 5 years
$69,700est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$82,000est.
$70,500–$95,200
Outlook score
58/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
8%
Very low
Job growth (10 yr)
+3.7%
27K openings / yr
How to become firefighters
Typical education
Postsecondary nondegree award
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
Long-term on-the-job training
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
Skills, education and requirements for Firefighters
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsHandling and Moving ObjectsMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgePerforming General Physical ActivitiesAssisting and Caring for OthersControlling Machines and ProcessesOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work
Important abilities
Problem SensitivityStatic StrengthStaminaReaction TimeTrunk StrengthOral Expression
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 2 — some preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as firefighters
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.