First-Line Supervisors of Firefighting and Prevention Workers: Salary, How to Become, and 2025 Outlook
First-Line Supervisors of Firefighting and Prevention Workers earn a national median of $93,530 per year, with a mean wage of $96,930 (about $45/hour). The top 10% of supervisors bring in over $140,010, while the bottom 10% earn $53,430. These figures, from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, reflect the premium placed on experienced fire service leaders who coordinate teams and manage emergency operations.
How much First-Line Supervisors of Firefighting and Prevention Workers earn
The typical salary range for these supervisors spans from $53,430 at the 10th percentile to $140,010 at the 90th. Pay varies heavily by experience, location, and whether you work in a high-cost metro area or a rural district.
Most supervisors work full-time for local government fire departments. Overtime is common during emergencies and can push annual earnings well above base pay.
- Median annual wage: $93,530 (mean $96,930, ~$45/hour)
- 10th–90th percentile range: $53,430–$140,010
- Total U.S. employment: 99,140
Pay by state
Where you work dramatically affects your paycheck. The highest-paying state is New Jersey, with an average annual wage of $133,210, followed closely by New York ($132,520), Washington ($129,350), California ($127,630), and the District of Columbia ($126,560).
On the other end, the lowest-paying states are New Mexico ($58,430), West Virginia ($55,380), and Mississippi ($48,250). The gap between top and bottom states exceeds $80,000, reflecting differences in cost of living, collective bargaining, and local budgets.
How to become First-Line Supervisors of Firefighting and Prevention Worker
Typically, you start as a firefighter. Supervisors are promoted from within after years of on-the-job experience and additional training.
Education: While a high school diploma is the minimum, many departments prefer or require an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in fire science or public administration.
Licensing/certification: You must be a certified firefighter (state-specific). Many supervisors also hold an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or paramedic certification. Further certification as a Fire Officer (e.g., NFPA Fire Officer I–IV) is often needed or strongly recommended.
Experience: Expect 5–10 years of firefighting experience before you're considered for a supervisory role. Supervising probationary firefighters, leading small crews, and completing leadership courses build qualifications.
- Step 1: Become a firefighter (typically requires high school, EMT certification, and passing physical/ written tests).
- Step 2: Gain field experience and complete fire officer training.
- Step 3: Obtain relevant certifications (Fire Officer, EMT-Paramedic).
- Step 4: Apply for promotion; many departments have formal testing and interview processes.
Job outlook
Employment for first-line supervisors of firefighting and prevention workers is projected to grow 3.4% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. This translates to roughly 6,500 openings each year over the decade, mostly due to the need to replace workers who retire or leave the occupation.
Competition for promotions will remain strong because these are coveted positions with better pay and authority. Candidates with advanced certifications and a bachelor’s degree will have an edge.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary of a First-Line Supervisor of Firefighting and Prevention Workers?
The national median salary is $93,530 per year, with a mean of $96,930 (about $45/hour). The range runs from $53,430 (10th percentile) to $140,010 (90th percentile), according to BLS data.
How do I become a First-Line Supervisor of Firefighting and Prevention Workers?
Start as a firefighter. Gain 5–10 years of experience, earn fire officer certifications (e.g., NFPA Fire Officer I–IV), and often obtain an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in fire science or a related field. Promotion typically involves a competitive process within your department.
What is the job growth for First-Line Supervisors of Firefighting and Prevention Workers?
Employment is projected to grow 3.4% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as average, creating about 6,500 openings per year. Most openings arise from retirements or career changes.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full First-Line Supervisors of Firefighting and Prevention Workers data.