EMT to Firefighter: A Complete Career Transition Guide

Discover the skills, training, certifications, and career outlook.

Firefighters are the backbone of emergency response, standing on the front lines against disasters, accidents, and life-threatening situations. They remain on call 24/7, ready to rush into burning buildings, perform rescues, and provide critical medical care. Few careers require such a unique combination of physical endurance, mental resilience, and technical expertise.

Becoming a firefighter is no easy feat. Candidates must meet rigorous physical fitness standards, pass comprehensive background checks, and undergo extensive training. In recent years, emergency medical training has become a fundamental part of the profession. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, as of September 2022, nearly two-thirds, or 64% of reported calls to the fire department involve medical emergencies and rescue services. In addition, more than half (55%) of all reported emergency calls were to residential properties. Among these, 70% involved EMS or rescue services, while only 3% were related to fires.

If you’re an EMT considering a transition to firefighting, you already have a crucial skill set that fire departments seek. But firefighting demands more than just medical expertise. This guide will break down the essential steps to becoming a firefighter EMT, including required training, certifications, exams, and the timeline for entering this challenging yet rewarding profession. You can also explore a complete list of the best alternative jobs for EMTs & Paramedics for those curious about the potential career opportunities for EMS professionals.

Firefighter EMTs vs. Ambulance EMTs

Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) receive standardized medical training, regardless of their specific roles or workplaces. Both firefighter EMTs and ambulance EMTs must pass physical tests, obtain CPR certification, and provide emergency medical care in the field. The primary distinctions between these positions lie in the scope of their responsibilities and the duration of their training.

Firefighter EMTs undergo additional training to handle fire suppression, hazardous material incidents, and technical rescues, which extends their preparation time compared to ambulance EMTs. This comprehensive training reflects the broader range of duties they perform.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Firefighter EMT?

Becoming a Firefighter EMT requires a combination of medical and fire service training, each with its own timeline.

• EMT training: If you get your EMT training first, it can often take from 3 to 6 months to complete, depending on the program’s structure. However, at Unitek EMT, you can get accelerated training with a 14-Day Boot Camp or opt for their 7-Week Evening Boot Camp.
• Fire Academy: After obtaining EMT certification, aspiring firefighter EMTs must also attend a Fire Academy, which can last 14 to 16 weeks if pursued full-time. However, the total time commitment can vary based on factors such as program availability, state requirements, and whether training is taken on a full-time or part-time basis.
• Additional education: Some fire departments and municipalities require additional education, such as an associate degree in fire science, which can take two years to complete. Additional certifications—like Hazardous Materials (HazMat) training, technical rescue training, and paramedic certification—may further extend the timeline but can enhance job prospects and salary potential.

While emergency medical treatment is a core part of a firefighter EMT’s role, their responsibilities extend far beyond medical care. Firefighter EMTs must also master fire suppression techniques, search and rescue operations, disaster response, and fire prevention education. This combination of skills makes them versatile first responders, equipped to handle both medical and fire-related emergencies.

Where Do Firefighter EMTs Work?

In the United States, firefighters serve their communities in two primary capacities: as volunteers or as career (full-time) professionals.

Volunteer Firefighters: These individuals often balance firefighting duties with other occupations or personal commitments. They remain “on-call” to respond to emergencies as needed. According to the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), as of September 2022, volunteers comprise 65% of U.S. firefighters in the United States, highlighting the significant role they play in national fire services.

Career Firefighters: Serving as full-time professionals, career firefighters typically operate out of central fire stations. Their daily routines encompass a range of activities, including sharing household responsibilities, including cooking, cleaning, and grocery shopping. Many departments implement extended shifts; for instance, firefighters might work a 48-hour shift followed by 96 hours off. During active duty, they must be prepared to respond to emergencies at any time, day or night.

Beyond emergency responses, firefighters engage in various tasks to maintain readiness and serve the community, such as:

• Equipment Maintenance: Regular checks and upkeep of firefighting apparatus and tools.
• Training: Continuous drills and educational sessions to stay updated on firefighting techniques and safety protocols.
• Public Engagement: Conducting fire safety education, inspecting businesses or hydrants, and participating in community outreach programs.

Firefighter EMT Job Description

What does a Firefighter EMT do?

Since no two days are ever the same, firefighters must always be ready for unpredictable emergencies while maintaining a structured and disciplined routine in the firehouse.

• Work Hours: Firefighters typically work 56 hours per week, usually in 24-hour shifts. Some departments may assign 8 or 12-hour shifts, but this is rare.
• Shift Change & Morning Routine: The new shift begins at 8:00 AM in most fire departments. Retiring shifts head home while the arriving shift meets for roll call and pre-shift announcements. Firefighters inspect all gear and equipment, ensuring everything is in working order for the next 24 hours (e.g., checking oxygen tank levels and confirming all gear is present).
• Daily Maintenance & Station Duties: Firehouse upkeep, including cleaning living areas and common spaces, inspecting and maintaining fire trucks, refilling water tanks, and checking tools.
• Emergency Preparedness & Training: Firefighters must remain on constant alert for emergency calls at any time. Their training includes continuing education, fire drills, and hands-on practice with new techniques and equipment. In addition, physical fitness is mandatory, so firefighters engage in daily workouts.
• Downtime & Recreation: When not responding to calls, firefighters may spend time studying required coursework, participating in team-building activities, and relaxing in the recreation room.

Firefighter EMT Salary

How Much Does a Firefighter EMT Make?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not provide specific salary* data exclusively for firefighter EMTs. However, as of August 2024, the BLS, provides the annual wage for EMTs and Paramedics to be around $44,780. For Firefighters, as of May 2019, this figure is approximately $54,650 per. According to ZipRecruiter, there are where the typical salary* for a Firefighter EMT is above the national average, with Washington topping the list at $67,510.

Where Are Some of The Best Places to Work as a Firefighter EMT?

Top Industries for Firefighters

Here’s a closer look at top-paying industries for firefighters according to the BLS, as of May 2023:

Industry	Hourly mean wage	Annual mean wage
Petroleum and Coal Products Manufacturing	$52.58	$109,370
Electric Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution	$45.99	$95,650
Support Activities for Mining	$35.20	$73,220
Scientific Research and Development Services	$34.92	$72,630
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing	$34.39	$71,520

Highest Paying States for Firefighters

According to the BLS, as of May 2023, the highest-paying states for Firefighters are as follows:

State	Hourly mean wage	Annual mean wage
California	$ 42.26	$87,890
New Jersey	$40.79	$84,850
Washington	$40.21	$83,630
New York	$38.92	$80,950
Illinois	$36.35	$75,610

Highest-Paying Cities for Firefighters

According to the BLS, as of May 2023, these U.S. cities offer the best salaries for Firefighters:

City	Hourly mean wage	Annual mean wage
San Jose, CA	$58.64	$121,960
San Francisco, CA	$51.93	$108,020
Vallejo, CA	$49.30	$102,540
Los Angeles, CA	$48.53	$100,950
Sacramento, CA	$47.57	$98,950
Fort Collins, CO	$45.36	$94,350
Modesto, CA	$44.80	$93,180
Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA	$44.50	$92,560
Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA	$44.13	$91,780
New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA	$41.85	$87,060

Check out our guide on the best cities to work as an EMT for a broader overview of some of the most popular cities in the United States and how they stack up as a home base for both EMTs and firefighters.

How to Become a Firefighter EMT?

Firefighter EMT Requirements

Basic requirements

• Must be 18 years or older
• High school diploma or GED
• CPR certification
• Valid driver’s license
• EMT training and certification (varies by department)
• Clean background check (no serious criminal offenses)
• Clean drug screening
• Pass a physical exam to ensure medical fitness

Physical fitness standards

• Firefighters must demonstrate high physical endurance and strength
• Ability to safely immobilize, stabilize, and transport victims
• Must be able to carry individuals down ladders and stairs during rescues
• Many physical exams require firefighters to lift and carry up to 200 pounds

Testing and certification process

• Written Exam – The National Testing Network (NTN) test, assessing cognitive and situational judgment skills
• Physical Skills Test – Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT), evaluating strength, endurance, and agility
• Interview Process – Structured interview assessing decision-making, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Fire Academy Training – Required by many departments after passing initial qualifications

Additional considerations

• Requirements may vary by city, state, and department ordinances
• Some departments prefer or require additional certifications (e.g., Hazardous Materials (HazMat) training, Firefighter I & II certifications)
• Certain jurisdictions may require an associate degree in fire science for career advancement

Firefighter Skills

According to a May 2024 article by Firefighter Recruiter on FireRescue1, firefighters across the country were asked to name the top three most important traits for the job. The following are the 10 traits mentioned most frequently.

1. Integrity – Teams rely on each other in critical moments. Trust and accountability are vital, as lives often depend on quick, decisive actions.
2. Physical Fitness – Firefighters, as well as EMTs, frequently need to lift and carry patients to safety. Maintaining physical fitness ensures the ability to meet these physical demands.
3. Communication – In high-stress situations, clear and concise communication is key. Firefighters must relay vital information quickly to ensure everyone’s safety.
4. Flexibility – No two days are the same for EMTs or firefighters. Adaptability is crucial in responding to unexpected challenges and changing conditions.
5. Dedication – The role of a firefighter requires a strong commitment. A focus on service and a deep sense of responsibility are essential for success.
6. Team Player – Collaboration is crucial in this profession. Firefighters must work seamlessly with their team, prioritizing the mission above personal differences.
7. Mechanical Aptitude – Handling a variety of tools and equipment is part of the job. Understanding how to use and troubleshoot these tools can be vital in emergencies.
8. Public Image Consciousness – As public figures, first responders’ conduct, both on and off the job, reflects on the professionalism of their team.
9. Tolerance – Working in diverse environments requires respect for differing backgrounds, beliefs, and perspectives, ensuring effective teamwork.
10. Self-Sacrifice – Firefighter often take risks for the benefit of others. A mindset of service, including protecting both victims and fellow crew members, is central to the role.

Firefighter EMT Training

A Fire Academy is a specialized training institution where individuals aspiring to become firefighters receive the necessary education, skills, and hands-on experience to perform effectively in emergency situations. These academies offer both classroom instruction and practical training, covering a wide range of topics such as fire suppression, emergency medical procedures, safety protocols, and rescue operations. Training typically includes physical fitness, firefighting techniques, hazardous materials handling, and rescue drills. Fire academies may also provide advanced training for career development and continuous education throughout a firefighter’s career.

The Fire Academy

The firefighter training program is designed to prepare individuals to make sound decisions under extreme pressure. While answering questions correctly on a written exam is one aspect of training, the real challenge lies in performing under stress—surrounded by flames, smoke, and wearing up to 30 pounds of protective gear.

To ensure readiness, hands-on drills are a critical part of firefighter training. These exercises begin with basic tasks like forming a hose line (safely moving the hose toward a burning structure) and progress to more complex, controlled fire scenarios. Training takes place in three types of buildings:

1. Traditional – Fire academies have purpose-built structures for live-fire practice.
2. Acquired – Abandoned or deteriorating buildings from the community are donated for training use.
3. Simulated Structural Fire – Advanced training facilities with computer-controlled flames simulate various real-life scenarios.

Even after graduation from the fire academy and beginning a career as a firefighter EMT, training is ongoing. Continuous study and practice are expected throughout a firefighter’s career to maintain skills and stay prepared for any emergency.

Firefighter EMT Course Costs

The costs of firefighter EMT training can vary depending on location and the specific program. Many fire academies offer courses at little to no cost, with some providing free training or minimal fees. For instance, courses offered by the U.S. Fire Administration’s National Fire Academy are free for students. However, there are certain fees associated with required certifications and tests. Here are some of the costs for essential tests for firefighter EMTs:

• National Testing Network Firefighter Test (written exams by role) – $55
• CPAT (Candidate Physical Ability Test) – $145–$155
• FFM (The Firefighter Mile Test)– $105

What to Expect of Firefighter EMT Certification

The National Testing Network (NTN) FireTEAM exam is a critical step in becoming a Firefighter EMT. The exam takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete and assesses a broad range of skills, but very little of the test focuses on firefighting or emergency medicine. Unlike the EMT Certification Exam, which evaluates medical knowledge, the FireTEAM exam is designed to measure your cognitive abilities and problem-solving skills.

What’s on the FireTEAM Exam?

The test consists of multiple-choice questions covering:

• Reading Comprehension – Understanding and analyzing written materials.
• Grammar & Spelling – Assessing language proficiency and attention to detail.
• Spatial Reasoning – Evaluating the ability to visualize objects in space.
• Memory & Observation – Testing recall and attention to details in scenarios.
• Logic & Judgment – Measuring decision-making skills in problem-solving situations.
• Basic Math & Algebra – Assessing numerical skills relevant to the job.
• Mechanical Aptitude – Understanding basic principles of physics and mechanics.

Why Is This Test Important?

The FireTEAM exam is an admissions test, not a certification exam. It is designed to ensure candidates have the fundamental skills necessary to succeed in a fire academy training program. Scoring well demonstrates that you have the cognitive abilities required to grasp the complex firefighting and emergency medical training ahead.

Next Steps After the FireTEAM Exam

Once you pass the FireTEAM exam, the next steps typically include:

1. Physical Ability Testing (CPAT) – Assessing strength, endurance, and agility.
2. EMT Training & Certification – Completing an EMT-Basic program to meet department requirements.
3. Fire Academy Training – Learning firefighting tactics, safety, and emergency response.
4. Department-Specific Testing & Interviews – Completing oral interviews and department assessments.

Firefighter EMT Jobs: How to Find Opportunities

Finding a Firefighter EMT job is a structured and competitive process, but there are pathways to securing a position. Many fire departments use their fire academy admissions process to fill open roles, meaning that if you’re accepted into an academy, there’s a chance a job will be available upon graduation.

However, for those looking to explore job opportunities beyond their local area, the National Testing Network (NTN)is an excellent resource. NTN not only administers FireTEAM exams required by many departments, but it also maintains a nationwide job database specifically for firefighter EMTs.

Where to Find Firefighter EMT Jobs

• Local Fire Academies – Many fire academies train recruits for positions within local departments.
• National Testing Network (NTN) – In addition to testing and certification, NTN provides a database of job openings nationwide.
• City and State Fire Department Websites – Many departments post openings and hiring requirements online.
• USAJOBS (Federal Firefighting Positions) – Lists firefighting jobs on military bases, national parks, and federal agencies.
• Networking and Firefighter Unions – Engaging with local firefighter organizations can lead to job referrals and hiring insights.

To increase your job prospects as a Firefighter EMT, start by obtaining your EMT or paramedic certification, as many fire departments require this training. Next, ensure you pass the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT), which demonstrates your physical readiness for the demands of the job. Scoring well on the FireTEAM Exam can also give you a competitive edge, as strong test results improve your chances of securing interviews. Additionally, gaining volunteer or wildland firefighting experience can enhance your resume, showing dedication and hands-on skills that make you a more attractive candidate to hiring departments. With strong demand for firefighter EMTs in many areas, especially those facing growing populations and increased emergency response needs, job opportunities are readily available for those who meet the necessary training and certification requirements.

Firefighter Career Growth Opportunities

As an admitted member of the Fire Department, Firefighter EMTs who work hard may be promoted up the chain of command. New recruits can work towards achieving the rank of engineer or lieutenant but work their way up to Fire Chief.

Firefighter Chain of Command

The firefighter chain of command is a structured hierarchy that ensures efficient emergency response, clear communication, and accountability within a fire department. While the exact structure may vary by department, the typical firefighter chain of command follows this order:

1. Probationary Firefighter (Recruit) – Entry-level firefighter undergoing training and evaluation.
2. Firefighter – Certified and fully trained, responsible for fire suppression, rescue, and medical response.
3. Driver/Engineer (Apparatus Operator) – Operates fire trucks, ensures equipment readiness, and assists in fireground operations.
4. Lieutenant – First-level supervisor who leads a team of firefighters on a shift, responsible for training, safety, and incident command at small-scale emergencies.
5. Captain – Manages a fire station or shift, oversees multiple fire crews, and takes command at larger incidents when necessary.
6. Battalion Chief – Oversees multiple fire stations within a district, coordinating resources and commanding major incidents.
7. Division Chief – Manages a specific division such as operations, training, or fire prevention within a department.
8. Assistant Chief – Works directly under the Fire Chief, assisting with administrative and operational management.
9. Deputy Chief – Second-in-command of the entire fire department, responsible for major departmental operations and policies.
10. Fire Chief – The highest-ranking officer, responsible for the overall leadership, strategy, budgeting, and policy-making of the fire department.

This hierarchy ensures that emergency responses are organized, efficient, and effective, with leadership at each level guiding personnel and making critical decisions.

From EMT to Firefighter

The path of a Firefighter EMT is one of courage, skill, and deep commitment to serving others. Many EMTs choose to expand their expertise by joining the fire service, drawn by the higher stakes, greater challenges, and increased opportunities to protect their communities. Whether you’re beginning as an EMT or advancing toward a role as a Firefighter EMT, a strong educational foundation is key to success. Firefighter EMTs play a critical role in public safety, and the demand for trained professionals remains strong.

At Unitek EMT, we are dedicated to preparing the next generation of emergency responders. Our accelerated EMT program provides hands-on training and experienced instruction to help you gain certification quickly. For those already in the field, our EMS Continuing Education courses ensure you stay up to date with emergency medicine. If you’re ready to start your journey, learn more about our 14-day EMT Basic Training in Tempe, AZ, and take the first step toward a career that truly makes a difference.