Firefighter
You’re the community’s protector. Firefighters are first responders who not only extinguish hazardous fires but many have an EMT certification.
In an emergency, firefighters are one of the first responders to arrive, entering burning buildings and breaking through debris to locate and rescue individuals. It’s a career that requires a lot of hard work, long hours of training, dedication and a selfless commitment to help others. As a firefighter, you need to be physically fit, able to climb stairs, carry equipment, raise ladders and drag heavy water hoses. One hundred feet of hose weighs almost 200 pounds.
Most firefighters today start out with a postsecondary certificate after high school. You may also want to consider earning an EMT certification. If firefighting is a lifelong career, you can also look into degree programs in fire science, to further advance your career.
$38,843
entry level salary estimate
$60,545
experienced level salary estimate
2,294
projected annual job openings
Careers in service to our community.
To serve, protect and defend. If you feel called to a career in human and public service, there are many different avenues you can explore. From front line responders and social workers to city planners and environmental scientists, all play a crucial role in the well-being of our communities. For some of these positions, you’ll need a certificate or short-term training, while for others you’ll need more advanced training or a bachelor’s degree.
Sources:
Texas Labor Market Information, Texas Workforce Commission. Statewide wages by occupation, 2021. Statewide projections by occupation, 2020-2030.
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