Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Firefighter is a trained professional specializing in fire prevention, emergency response, and extinguishing fires. They also provide critical community services such as emergency medical assistance and disaster response.
Education: Postsecondary nondegree award
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: Long-term
Projected Growth: 3.6% (average)
Annual job openings: 27,100
Direct AI exposure: 7% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 11% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $59K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $35K per year | $44K per year | $59K per year | $77K per year | $101K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $8.3K above the national average. | ||||
Firefighters work in a variety of settings, including municipal fire departments, airports, industrial sites, and wildland areas. The job involves exposure to dangerous and physically demanding conditions, often requiring work in shifts that cover 24 hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Firefighting is a challenging and dynamic profession that involves more than extinguishing fires. Firefighters must be prepared to tackle various emergency situations, including medical emergencies, hazardous material incidents, and natural disasters. They need to be physically fit, able to handle intense situations, and work well in a team. Continuous training is a key component of the job, encompassing firefighting techniques, emergency medical procedures, and specialized equipment usage.
The career path of a firefighter can be diverse, with opportunities for specialization in areas such as wildland firefighting, hazardous materials, and fire prevention. Many firefighters also take on roles in public education, teaching communities about fire safety and prevention. Advancement can include moving into higher-ranking positions like fire captain, battalion chief, or even fire chief, which involve more administrative and management responsibilities.
Being a firefighter requires a strong commitment to public service and a willingness to face risky, often life-threatening situations. It's a role that demands dedication, courage, and a calm demeanor under pressure. Despite the risks, it is a highly rewarding profession for those passionate about protecting their communities and helping others in times of crisis.
The basic requirement is typically a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by training at a fire academy. Many firefighters also pursue EMT or paramedic certification. Some roles may require an associate or bachelor's degree in fire science or a related field.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
