Firefighters


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Firefighters

Firefighters - At a Glance

Firefighters put out fires and rescue people who are in danger.

Quick Facts:  Firefighters
WagesEarn $81,714 per year
EmploymentEmployment data are not available
10 Year GrowthGrowth estimate is not available
Annual OpeningsAnnual openings data are not available

Preparation 

A firefighter typically needs to:

  • have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • pass a written exam
  • pass a physical test
  • pass a medical exam
  • complete firefighter training
  • complete long-term, on-the-job training

Working Conditions 

In a typical work setting, firefighters:

  • Are extremely responsible for the health and safety of others.
  • Work outdoors and indoors. Forest firefighters may be outside on a daily basis during fire season. However, they often are able to work under cover. City firefighters are indoors when working at the fire station.
  • Must be very exact in their work. Errors could result in serious or fatal injuries.
  • Generally work about 40 hours per week. Forest firefighters may work more than 50 hours a week if the fire season is particularly busy.

Wages 

In Illinois, firefighters earn a median wage of $81,714 per year.

$0 $50 $100 $150 $200
Illinois

$ amounts are in thousands of dollars.

Employment and Outlook 

Employment and outlook data are not available.

Source: Illinois Career Information System (CIS) brought to you by Illinois Department of Employment Security.