Fire Science Schools

Which types of jobs are available for those interested in fire science?

Most fire science jobs are within the fire fighting field. Individuals may work as fire inspectors, fire department supervisors or fire engineers. However, the vast majority of those pursing fire science careers work directly as fire fighters. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 9 out of 10 of these professionals are employed by local units of government.

Fire fighters play an essential role in maintaining safe neighborhoods and communities. Not only are they responsible for putting out fires, they are often the first responders to medical emergencies and traffic accidents.

At the scene of a fire or emergency, each fire fighter will work under the direction of the fire chief or the designated supervisor. When not responding to fire or emergency calls, fire fighters may maintain equipment, participate in training classes or conduct practice drills.

Fire science careers can be dangerous and challenging. Fire fighters must be ready to respond to emergency calls at all hours of the day, and work shifts can be long. It is not unusual for full-time firefighters to work 50 hours in a week. In addition, structural fires and wildfires pose risks to rescuers that include roof collapses, falling walls and smoke inhalation.

Despite the challenges, many find fire fighting to be a rewarding career choice. There are few professions that allow you to so profoundly impact the lives of others as you can with fire science jobs.

Formal training required to work in a career related to fire science

In the past, most fire fighting positions required only a high school diploma. However, employers today increasingly prefer job applicants with degrees in fire science. In addition, municipalities generally provide extensive training to new firefighters.

Fire science degrees may be two- or four-year programs. These fire science degree programs may be offered by community colleges, private colleges or universities. Students may learn about fire fighting, as well as emergency response:

• Fire prevention
• Hazardous materials control
• Fire fighting techniques
• Emergency medical procedures including first aid and CPR
• Local and state building codes

Fire science research can also help students prepare for the written and physical exams most local governments administer for job applicants.

The typical career path of someone interested in fire science

Individuals take many different paths to fire science careers. Some apply for positions on a fire fighting team immediately after receiving a high school diploma. Others may enter one of the fire science degree programs for further training. For some, fire fighting may be a second career.

Fire science jobs seem to appeal largely to those seeking a challenging work environment and the opportunity to serve others. In addition, many municipalities offer guaranteed pensions after 25 years of service, which also adds to the appeal of fire science careers.

Once hired, individuals can advance based upon their experience and training. The chain of command in many units includes engineers, lieutenants, captains, battalion chiefs, assistant chiefs and deputy chiefs. The Fire Chief represents the highest level of authority in a fire fighting unit. However, to attain positions above battalion chief, candidates generally must have a bachelor's degree.

The BLS reports that, in 2008, 66 percent of fire fighters were union members or covered by a union contract. The International Association of Fire Fighters is the largest union in the nation for fire science professionals. Its members are part of 3,100 affiliates and protect 85 percent of the country's population. The organization also provides fire science research to policymakers and community members.

Job outlook and salary information for those interested in fire science

According to the BLS, fire science jobs will see above average growth in the coming years. Demand for fire fighters is expected to increase by 19 percent from 2008 to 2018. Many of these positions will come as local units of government convert their volunteer fire departments to full-time units.

However, the BLS warns that competition will be keen for these jobs. It suggests that those who are physically fit, have fire science degrees and have completed emergency response certification will have an advantage over other job applicants.

In 2009, the national mean annual income for fire fighters was $47,270 according to BLS statistics. New Jersey fire fighters earned the highest mean annual wage in the nation with average incomes of $71,810. Meanwhile, Ohio employs the largest number of fire science professionals. Individuals who advance to first-line supervisor positions can earn more with the BLS reporting a 2009 mean annual income of $71,680 for fire fighting managers nationwide.