If you’ve ever wondered how much firefighters make in California then you’re definitely not alone.
Firefighting is an incredibly important job and one of the most physically and emotionally demanding ones out there.
So it’s not surprising that people are curious about what firefighters in California make.
Firefighters in California typically earn between $47850 and $123750 per year with an average salary of around $77640.
Firefighter II salaries after 3 years on the job range from $127017.36 to $162020.
52 per year while Driver/Engineer salaries range from $136706.28 to $179813.44 per year.
The average total compensation for a full time firefighter in a California city is around $207K per year and the average salary for a firefighter in California is approximately $92500 per year.
Job Description
Before we go further into the specifics of firefighter pay in California it’s important to understand what firefighters actually do.
These brave and hardworking individuals work to protect lives and property from fires and other emergencies.
Firefighters respond to 911 calls and provide emergency medical services.
They may be required to climb ladders administer first aid and even perform search and rescue operations.
Firefighters also work to prevent fires by teaching fire safety and inspecting buildings.
Education and Training Requirements
Before they can become firefighters individuals need to meet certain educational and training requirements.
To become a firefighter in California individuals must have at least a high school diploma or GED.
In addition they must meet physical requirements such as being able to lift and carry heavy objects operate equipment and pass a physical exam.
Firefighters must also complete a Firefighter I and II program and pass a written exam.
They must also pass a physical fitness test and a drug test.
Firefighters must also obtain certification from the California State Fire Marshal and complete a course in Firefighter Safety and Survival.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for firefighters in California is excellent.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the job outlook for firefighters in California is expected to grow by 13.4% by 2028.
This growth is faster than the average for all occupations in the state.
Salary Expectations
Now that you know the job requirements and job outlook for firefighters in California let’s take a look at the expected salaries.
The average salary for a firefighter in California is approximately $92500 per year.
This is higher than the national average of $63000 per year.
Firefighter II salaries after 3 years on the job range from $127017.36 to $162020.52 per year while Driver/Engineer salaries range from $136706.28 to $179813.44 per year.
The average total compensation for a full time firefighter in a California city is around $207K per year.
Benefits
In addition to the salary firefighters in California can earn they also receive a variety of benefits.
Firefighters in California typically receive medical and dental insurance life insurance and retirement benefits.
They may also receive tuition reimbursement for college courses or vocational training.
Working Conditions
Firefighters in California work long hours in hazardous conditions.
They are often exposed to smoke and flames dangerous chemicals and other hazardous materials.
Firefighters must also be prepared to work in all types of weather conditions and be on call 24 hours a day.
Conclusion
Firefighter salaries in California range from $47850 to $123750 per year with an average salary of around $77640.
After three years on the job Firefighter IIs can see a salary range from $127017.36 to $162020.52 per year and Driver/Engineers can earn up to $179813.44 per year.
The average total compensation for a full time firefighter in a California city is around $207K per year and the average salary for a firefighter in California is approximately $92500 per year.
Firefighters in California can also expect to receive a variety of benefits and work in hazardous conditions.