Firefighters

Control and extinguish fires or respond to emergency situations where life, property, or the environment is at risk. Duties may include fire prevention, emergency medical service, hazardous material response, search and rescue, and disaster assistance.

Tasks Include:

Rescue survivors from burning buildings, accident sites, and water hazards.
Dress with equipment such as fire-resistant clothing and breathing apparatus.
Assess fires and situations and report conditions to superiors to receive instructions, using two-way radios.
Move toward the source of a fire, using knowledge of types of fires, construction design, building materials, and physical layout of properties.
Respond to fire alarms and other calls for assistance, such as automobile and industrial accidents.
Create openings in buildings for ventilation or entrance, using axes, chisels, crowbars, electric saws, or core cutters.
Drive and operate fire fighting vehicles and equipment.
Inspect fire sites after flames have been extinguished to ensure that there is no further danger.
Position and climb ladders to gain access to upper levels of buildings, or to rescue individuals from burning structures.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™; US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection. (Using onet291)

Projections Quick View:

Virginia: +5.2%

National: +4.2%

Education

High School Diploma

Job Zone:

Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Income Range:

Highest ($50,000 and up)

Median Earnings:

National

$57,120.00

State

$54,170.00

Regional

Firefighters

Description

Career Cluster:

Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Firefighters

Education

Required Level of Education

High School Diploma - or the equivalent (for example, GED) = 35.89%
Post-Secondary Certificate - awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in agriculture or natural resources, computer services, personal or culinary services, engineering technologies, healthcare, construction trades, mechanic and repair technologies, or precision production) = 24.60%
Some College Courses = 19.50%
Less than a High School Diploma = 9.36%
Associate's Degree (or other 2-year degree) = 7.15%
First Professional Degree - awarded for completion of a program that: requires at least 2 years of college work before entrance into the program, includes a total of at least 6 academic years of work to complete, and provides all remaining academic requirements to begin practice in a profession. = 2.96%
Bachelor's Degree = 0.43%
Doctoral Degree = 0.10%

Related Work Experience

None = 43.89%
Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years = 18.36%
Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years = 15.31%
Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year = 10.61%
Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months = 6.14%
Up to and including 1 month = 3.07%
Over 6 years, up to and including 8 years = 2.40%
Over 4 years, up to and including 6 years = 0.11%
Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months = 0.05%
Over 8 years, up to and including 10 years = 0.05%

On-Site or In-Plant Training

Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months = 25.89%
Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years = 25.04%
Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year = 23.42%
None = 8.37%
Over 10 years = 7.43%
Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years = 7.16%
Over 4 years, up to and including 10 years = 2.46%
Up to and including 1 month = 0.13%
Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months = 0.10%

On-the-Job Training

Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year = 31.17%
Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years = 21.78%
Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years = 12.65%
Over 10 years = 11.96%
Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months = 10.63%
None or short demonstration = 10.17%
Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months = 1.46%
Anything beyond short demonstration, up to and including 1 month = 0.18%

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Firefighters

Tasks

Core Tasks Include:

Rescue survivors from burning buildings, accident sites, and water hazards.
Dress with equipment such as fire-resistant clothing and breathing apparatus.
Assess fires and situations and report conditions to superiors to receive instructions, using two-way radios.
Move toward the source of a fire, using knowledge of types of fires, construction design, building materials, and physical layout of properties.
Respond to fire alarms and other calls for assistance, such as automobile and industrial accidents.
Create openings in buildings for ventilation or entrance, using axes, chisels, crowbars, electric saws, or core cutters.
Drive and operate fire fighting vehicles and equipment.
Inspect fire sites after flames have been extinguished to ensure that there is no further danger.
Position and climb ladders to gain access to upper levels of buildings, or to rescue individuals from burning structures.
Select and attach hose nozzles, depending on fire type, and direct streams of water or chemicals onto fires.
Maintain contact with fire dispatchers at all times to notify them of the need for additional firefighters and supplies, or to detail any difficulties encountered.
Collaborate with other firefighters as a member of a firefighting crew.
Patrol burned areas after fires to locate and eliminate hot spots that may restart fires.
Collaborate with police to respond to accidents, disasters, and arson investigation calls.
Participate in fire drills and demonstrations of fire fighting techniques.
Maintain knowledge of current firefighting practices by participating in drills and by attending seminars, conventions, and conferences.
Prepare written reports that detail specifics of fire incidents.
Participate in physical training activities to maintain a high level of physical fitness.
Protect property from water and smoke, using waterproof salvage covers, smoke ejectors, and deodorants.
Inform and educate the public on fire prevention.
Salvage property by removing broken glass, pumping out water, and ventilating buildings to remove smoke.
Orient self in relation to fire, using compass and map, and collect supplies and equipment dropped by parachute.
Clean and maintain fire stations and fire fighting equipment and apparatus.
Inspect buildings for fire hazards and compliance with fire prevention ordinances, testing and checking smoke alarms and fire suppression equipment as necessary.
Take action to contain any hazardous chemicals that could catch fire, leak, or spill.
Extinguish flames and embers to suppress fires, using shovels or engine- or hand-driven water or chemical pumps.
Operate pumps connected to high-pressure hoses.

Tasks Include:

Administer first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation to injured persons or provide emergency medical care such as basic or advanced life support.
Search to locate fire survivors.
Train new employees to control and suppress fires.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Firefighters

Knowledge

%	Subject	Description
88.25	Public Safety and Security	Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
79.75	Customer and Personal Service	Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
78.25	Education and Training	Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
75.75	Building and Construction	Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
72.75	English Language	Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
69.50	Mechanical	Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
65.50	Medicine and Dentistry	Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
64.50	Telecommunications	Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
60.75	Administration and Management	Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
60.50	Transportation	Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
60.00	Law and Government	Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
58.25	Chemistry	Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
56.00	Psychology	Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
54.00	Mathematics	Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Firefighters

Skills

%	Subject	Description
72.00	Critical Thinking	Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
65.50	Coordination	Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
65.50	Service Orientation	Actively looking for ways to help people.
65.50	Judgment and Decision Making	Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
62.50	Active Listening	Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
62.50	Speaking	Talking to others to convey information effectively.
62.50	Active Learning	Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
62.50	Monitoring	Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
59.50	Social Perceptiveness	Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
56.25	Complex Problem Solving	Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
56.25	Operations Monitoring	Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
56.25	Operation and Control	Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
53.00	Reading Comprehension	Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
53.00	Time Management	Managing one's own time and the time of others.
50.00	Instructing	Teaching others how to do something.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Firefighters

Abilities

%	Subject	Description
78.00	Problem Sensitivity	The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
72.00	Oral Comprehension	The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
68.75	Oral Expression	The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
68.75	Deductive Reasoning	The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
68.75	Static Strength	The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
68.75	Arm-Hand Steadiness	The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
68.75	Far Vision	The ability to see details at a distance.
65.50	Speech Clarity	The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
65.50	Stamina	The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
65.50	Inductive Reasoning	The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
65.50	Control Precision	The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
65.50	Multilimb Coordination	The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
65.50	Near Vision	The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
62.50	Information Ordering	The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
62.50	Manual Dexterity	The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
62.50	Trunk Strength	The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
62.50	Dynamic Strength	The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
62.50	Reaction Time	The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
62.50	Flexibility of Closure	The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
62.50	Speech Recognition	The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
59.50	Written Comprehension	The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
59.50	Extent Flexibility	The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
59.50	Perceptual Speed	The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
59.50	Auditory Attention	The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
56.25	Spatial Orientation	The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
56.25	Visualization	The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
53.00	Depth Perception	The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
53.00	Gross Body Coordination	The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
53.00	Category Flexibility	The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
53.00	Speed of Closure	The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
53.00	Visual Color Discrimination	The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
53.00	Selective Attention	The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
53.00	Explosive Strength	The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
50.00	Written Expression	The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
50.00	Finger Dexterity	The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
50.00	Response Orientation	The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
50.00	Gross Body Equilibrium	The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Firefighters

Work Activities

%	Subject	Description
88.50	Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials	Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
87.25	Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment	Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
87.00	Assisting and Caring for Others	Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
84.50	Making Decisions and Solving Problems	Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
83.25	Performing General Physical Activities	Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
81.00	Getting Information	Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
80.25	Performing for or Working Directly with the Public	Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
80.00	Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings	Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
80.00	Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events	Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
80.00	Handling and Moving Objects	Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
79.50	Documenting/Recording Information	Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
77.25	Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge	Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
76.50	Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates	Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
75.75	Controlling Machines and Processes	Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
70.75	Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships	Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
70.75	Training and Teaching Others	Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
68.50	Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment	Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
67.75	Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People	Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
67.25	Developing and Building Teams	Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
67.00	Communicating with People Outside the Organization	Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
66.75	Processing Information	Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
64.75	Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards	Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
64.75	Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work	Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
64.00	Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information	Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
61.75	Coaching and Developing Others	Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
60.25	Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others	Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
60.00	Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others	Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
58.75	Developing Objectives and Strategies	Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
57.75	Analyzing Data or Information	Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
57.75	Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates	Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
57.25	Thinking Creatively	Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
56.00	Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others	Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
55.50	Providing Consultation and Advice to Others	Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
52.00	Working with Computers	Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
52.00	Monitoring and Controlling Resources	Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
51.75	Scheduling Work and Activities	Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Firefighters

Work Styles

%	Subject	Description
92.00	Stress Tolerance	Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.
91.25	Dependability	Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
90.25	Self-Control	Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
89.25	Integrity	Job requires being honest and ethical.
89.00	Attention to Detail	Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
87.50	Concern for Others	Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.
87.25	Cooperation	Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
85.50	Leadership	Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction.
84.50	Adaptability/Flexibility	Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
81.75	Initiative	Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
79.75	Persistence	Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
79.25	Social Orientation	Job requires preferring to work with others rather than alone, and being personally connected with others on the job.
75.00	Achievement/Effort	Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
72.50	Analytical Thinking	Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
66.00	Innovation	Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
56.25	Independence	Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Firefighters

Work Values

%	Subject	Description
80.50	Support	Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.
77.83	Relationships	Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.
75.00	Achievement	Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
63.83	Recognition	Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.
61.17	Independence	Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
58.33	Working Conditions	Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Firefighters

Work Context

%	Subject	Description
97.00	Face-to-Face Discussions	How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?
94.60	Contact With Others	How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it?
94.20	Work With Work Group or Team	How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job?
92.40	Physical Proximity	To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks in close physical proximity to other people?
92.00	Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets	How much does this job require wearing common protective or safety equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hard hats or life jackets?
90.40	Deal With External Customers	How important is it to work with external customers or the public in this job?
89.40	Responsible for Others' Health and Safety	How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job?
89.40	Outdoors, Exposed to Weather	How often does this job require working outdoors, exposed to all weather conditions?
85.60	Exposed to Contaminants	How often does this job require working exposed to contaminants (such as pollutants, gases, dust or odors)?
85.40	Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable	How often does this job require working exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable?
85.40	Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results	What results do your decisions usually have on other people or the image or reputation or financial resources of your employer?
85.40	Importance of Being Exact or Accurate	How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?
85.20	In an Enclosed Vehicle or Equipment	How often does this job require working in a closed vehicle or equipment (e.g., car)?
84.80	Telephone	How often do you have telephone conversations in this job?
83.80	Exposed to Hazardous Equipment	How often does this job require exposure to hazardous equipment?
83.80	Consequence of Error	How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not readily correctable?
83.00	Coordinate or Lead Others	How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job?
82.60	Frequency of Decision Making	How frequently is the worker required to make decisions that affect other people, the financial resources, and/or the image and reputation of the organization?
81.60	Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting	How often does this job require working in extremely bright or inadequate lighting conditions?
81.40	Exposed to Disease or Infections	How often does this job require exposure to disease/infections?
79.20	Responsibility for Outcomes and Results	How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers?
79.00	Electronic Mail	How often do you use electronic mail in this job?
78.80	Freedom to Make Decisions	How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?
77.60	Structured versus Unstructured Work	To what extent is this job structured for the worker, rather than allowing the worker to determine tasks, priorities, and goals?
76.60	Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection	How much does this job require wearing specialized protective or safety equipment such as breathing apparatus, safety harness, full protection suits, or radiation protection?
75.80	Exposed to Hazardous Conditions	How often does this job require exposure to hazardous conditions?
74.00	Very Hot or Cold Temperatures	How often does this job require working in very hot (above 90 F degrees) or very cold (below 32 F degrees) temperatures?
72.80	Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls	How much does this job require using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls?
72.80	Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled	How often does this job require working indoors in non-controlled environmental conditions (e.g., warehouse without heat)?
72.60	Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions	How often does this job require working in cramped work spaces that requires getting into awkward positions?
72.20	Level of Competition	To what extent does this job require the worker to compete or to be aware of competitive pressures?
72.00	Time Pressure	How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines?
71.40	Exposed to High Places	How often does this job require exposure to high places?
70.40	Deal With Unpleasant or Angry People	How frequently does the worker have to deal with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous individuals as part of the job requirements?
68.80	Importance of Repeating Same Tasks	How important is repeating the same physical activities (e.g., key entry) or mental activities (e.g., checking entries in a ledger) over and over, without stopping, to performing this job?
68.60	Spend Time Standing	How much does this job require standing?
68.00	Indoors, Environmentally Controlled	How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions?
67.80	Frequency of Conflict Situations	How often are there conflict situations the employee has to face in this job?
66.40	Outdoors, Under Cover	How often does this job require working outdoors, under cover (e.g., structure with roof but no walls)?
64.20	Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings	How often does this job require exposure to minor burns, cuts, bites, or stings?
62.40	Spend Time Bending or Twisting the Body	How much does this job require bending or twisting your body?
60.40	Letters and Memos	How often does the job require written letters and memos?
60.20	In an Open Vehicle or Equipment	How often does this job require working in an open vehicle or equipment (e.g., tractor)?
58.20	Spend Time Walking and Running	How much does this job require walking and running?
57.60	Deal With Physically Aggressive People	How frequently does this job require the worker to deal with physical aggression of violent individuals?
55.20	Public Speaking	How often do you have to perform public speaking in this job?
55.20	Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions	How much does this job require making repetitive motions?
53.60	Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling	How much does this job require kneeling, crouching, stooping or crawling?
50.20	Exposed to Whole Body Vibration	How often does this job require exposure to whole body vibration (e.g., operate a jackhammer)?
49.80	Spend Time Sitting	How much does this job require sitting?

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Firefighters

Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Overall Experience
- Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
Job Training
- Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Examples
- These occupations usually involve using communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Examples include hydroelectric production managers, desktop publishers, electricians, agricultural technicians, barbers, court reporters and simultaneous captioners, and medical assistants.
Education
- Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Firefighters

Earnings Benefits*

Region	Entry Level	Median	Experienced
United States	$31,600.00	$57,120.00	$75,320.00
Virginia	$38,030.00	$54,170.00	$67,560.00

Region	Entry Level	Median	Experienced
Alexandria/Arlington	$45,650.00	$59,540.00	$69,520.00
Bay Consortium	$39,700.00	$48,500.00	$55,570.00
Capital Region Workforce Partnership	$42,770.00	$61,380.00	$68,830.00
Central VA/Region2000	$36,220.00	$48,160.00	$49,020.00
Crater Area	$40,970.00	$53,860.00	$60,780.00
Greater Peninsula	No Data	No Data	No Data
Hampton Roads	$47,690.00	$57,970.00	$66,220.00
New River/Mt. Rogers	$25,350.00	$32,610.00	$40,130.00
Northern Virginia	$50,030.00	$64,240.00	$74,060.00
Piedmont Workforce	$29,420.00	$47,790.00	$54,060.00
Shenandoah Valley	$30,570.00	$39,510.00	$48,280.00
South Central	$26,390.00	$42,990.00	$47,350.00
Southwestern Virginia	$25,580.00	$31,660.00	$39,450.00
West Piedmont	$31,530.00	$39,280.00	$47,950.00
Western Virginia	$32,840.00	$41,430.00	$47,510.00

* Earnings Calculations:

Regional Earnings:
   Entry = Annual mean of the lower 1/3 wage distribution;
   Experienced = Annual mean of the upper 2/3 wage distribution.

National and State Earnings:
   Entry = Annual 10th percentile wage;
   Experienced = Annual 75th percentile wage.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection. (Using onet291)

Firefighters

Employment Projections

USA: 2023-2033

Virginia: 2022-2032

Regions: 2020-2030

	Current	Projected	% Change
United States	326,800	340,500	+4.2%
Virginia	10,368	10,906	+5.2%

Region	Current*	Projected	% Change
Alexandria/Arlington	No Data	No Data	No Data
Bay Consortium	No Data	No Data	No Data
Capital Region Workforce Partnership	No Data	No Data	No Data
Central VA/Region2000	No Data	No Data	No Data
Crater Area	No Data	No Data	No Data
Greater Peninsula	No Data	No Data	No Data
Hampton Roads	No Data	No Data	No Data
New River/Mt. Rogers	No Data	No Data	No Data
Northern Virginia	2,402	2,852	+18.7%
Piedmont Workforce	No Data	No Data	No Data
Shenandoah Valley	508	576	+13.4%
South Central	No Data	No Data	No Data
Southwestern Virginia	125	113	-9.6%
West Piedmont	No Data	No Data	No Data
Western Virginia	No Data	No Data	No Data

* - Estimated

The data sources for the information displayed here include: US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection. (Using onet291)

Firefighters

Related Occupations

The related occupations here have similar general capabilities and interests; career explorers may also be interested in the related occupations:

Careers in Emergency and Fire Management Services Pathway:

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Firefighters

View Videos

CareerOneStop Video

View Video & Transcript on CareerOneStop

CareerOneStop Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security Videos
Overview
Occupations

The data sources for the information displayed here include: New York State Department of Labor; New Jersey Department of Labor; California Occupational Information Coordinating Committee; CareerOneStop. (Using onet291)

Firefighters

Military Training

The following military job classifications are available for this occupation:

Aircraft Accessories
Aircraft Launch Equipment
Firefighting and Damage Control
Not Occupationally Qualified, General
Other Craftsworkers, N.E.C., General

The data sources for the information displayed here include: Defense Manpower Data Center. (Using onet291)

Firefighters

Proficiency Ratings

These proficiencies are scored on a scale from 1 to 5 with 1 being not
important to the job and 5 being extremely important to the job.

Proficiency	Rating
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials	4.5
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment	4.5
Assisting and Caring for Others	4.5
Making Decisions and Solving Problems	4.5
Performing General Physical Activities	4.5
Getting Information	4.0
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public	4.0
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings	4.0
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events	4.0
Handling and Moving Objects	4.0
Documenting/Recording Information	4.0
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge	4.0
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates	4.0
Controlling Machines and Processes	4.0
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships	4.0
Training and Teaching Others	4.0
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment	3.5
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People	3.5
Developing and Building Teams	3.5
Communicating with People Outside the Organization	3.5
Processing Information	3.5
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards	3.5
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work	3.5
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information	3.5
Coaching and Developing Others	3.5
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others	3.5
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others	3.5
Developing Objectives and Strategies	3.5
Analyzing Data or Information	3.5
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates	3.5
Thinking Creatively	3.5
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others	3.0
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others	3.0
Working with Computers	3.0
Monitoring and Controlling Resources	3.0
Scheduling Work and Activities	3.0
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment	3.0
Performing Administrative Activities	3.0
Staffing Organizational Units	3.0
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment	2.5
Selling or Influencing Others	2.5

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Firefighters

Titles

Fire Engine Pump Operator
Fire Equipment Operator
Fire Fighter
Forest Firefighter
Marine Firefighter
Municipal Firefighter
Smoke Jumper
Wildland Firefighter

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Firefighters

Related Schools

Central Virginia Community College
Germanna Community College
Northern Virginia Community College
Patrick & Henry Community College
Southside Virginia Community College
Tidewater Community College
Virginia Peninsula Community College
Wytheville Community College

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)