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Military Firefighters

Military Career

General Information

Description

Military firefighters do much more than fight fires. They also perform inspections to minimize fire dangers, provide first aid to accident victims, and respond to hazardous materials spills. They assist civilian fire departments when needed.

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Work Environment

Firefighters work indoors and outdoors while fighting fires. They are exposed to the smoke, heat, and flames of the fires they fight.

Workplace at a Glance

What you can expect to experience while on the job

  • Responsibility
  • Exposure to job hazards
  • Physical activity
  • Decision making
  • Repetitiveness
  • Level of competition
  • Time pressure

Comparable Industries

  • Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security
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Military Outlook

Service Branches

Jobs in this career field may be available in other service branches. Call or email a particular branch for more info.

Military Status

  • Enlisted
    • Hands-on/specialized
    • High school diploma required

Military Workforce

Firefighters in the Military

3,245

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Salary

Average Salary

$57,104

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Education

Most Common Education Levels

People in this career achieve this level of education.

  • High school 35%
  • Post-secondary certificate 24%
  • Some college 19%
  • Less than high school 9%
  • Associate's degree 7%
  • First professional degree 2%
  • Master's degree 0%
  • Doctoral degree 0%
  • Bachelor's degree 0%
  • Post baccalaureate 0%
  • Post-doctoral training 0%
  • Post-master's certificate 0%

Military training

All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. Firefighters will gain skills through classes and on-the-job experience, including practice in fighting fires. Training content may include: Firefighting systems and equipment operationsTechniques for fighting various types of firesFirst aid and rescue proceduresUse of protective equipment Dispatching proceduresDamage controlFire inspection and prevention

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Skills at a Glance

Skills helpful in this career

  • Verbal skills
  • Critical thinking & problem solving
  • Equipment operation & maintenance
  • Math & science skills
  • Technology design & control
  • Leadership

Knowledge

  • Customer and Personal Service
  • Public Safety and Security
  • Education and Training
  • Psychology
  • Mechanical

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