Firefighters – Job Description
Firefighters are responsible for protecting citizens and property from the destruction of fire. It takes a certain set of skills and physical fitness to become a firefighter. Becoming a firefighter is one of the most challenging jobs in the world and as such, they are required to be physically and mentally fit for this profession.
Becoming a firefighter in the City of Arizona is not just about putting out fires. Firefighters are also called on to rescue people, provide emergency medical care, and help protect public health by enforcing fire codes.
Arizona has one of the best fire departments in the United States with over 232 registered Fire departments. The Phoenix, AZ Fire Department is one of the busiest fire departments in the country and has won numerous awards for its service. As an aspiring firefighter, you need to take the right steps to prepare for this challenging profession early in life.
What does it take to become a firefighter in Arizona?
In order to become a firefighter, you have to meet all the requirements that are set by Arizona’s Division of Occupational Safety and Health (ADOSH). The requirements to become a firefighter in Arizona are many and they may change from time to time but here are some of these requirements:
- You need to be at least 18 years old
- Must be a US citizen or permanent resident
- Must be a high school graduate or hold an equivalency diploma.
- Have no felony convictions or misdemeanor convictions within the last five years
- Pass agility tests, strength tests, and an interview
- Possess a valid driver’s license or state identification card, which may require an additional physical examination.
- Eligibility for Federal Employment: Must meet all qualification standards for federal employment as outlined by the United States Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and Arizona State Personnel Board
The state of Arizona has lots of fire academies and colleges where you can train to become a firefighter. Many fire academies typically offer courses in firefighting, EMT, or paramedicine with certifications to help students on their way into the profession.
While seeking any type of firefighting training and certifications, you must complete an AZPOST certified fire academy program or an equivalent accredited program as determined by the board of directors of the AZPOST commission on POST certification requirements, with a certificate issued by AZPOST, and must also have passed the final examination with a score of 70% or higher.
In summary, to become a firefighter in Arizona, you must first complete a state-approved course, which includes more than 100 hours of training. Then, you must pass a physical agility test and a written exam. The Arizona State Fire Marshal’s Office oversees the training, certification, and licensing of all firefighters in Arizona.
Firefighters in Arizona – Salary
Firefighting in Arizona is a highly demanding profession with rigorous criteria for qualification.
How Much Do Firefighters Make in Arizona?. It is estimated that the median annual salary for Firefighters in Arizona is $44,190.
The average hourly wage for Firefighters in Arizona is $21.25, which amounts to about $44,190 per year. The lowest 20% earns about $24,480 annually while the highest 20% makes about $79,769 per year.