Firefighters (Enlisted)
Opportunities
Military firefighters do much more than fight fires. They also perform inspections to minimize fire dangers, provide first aid to accident victims, and respond to hazardous materials spills. They assist civilian fire departments when needed.
Training Provided
Firefighters will gain skills through classes and on-the-job experience, including practice in fighting fires.
- Firefighting systems and equipment operations
- Techniques for fighting various types of fires
- First aid and rescue procedures
- Use of protective equipment
- Dispatching procedures
- Damage control
- Fire inspection and prevention
All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training.
Earnings
Military pay and benefits are set by Congress, which normally grants a cost-of-living pay increase once each year. All members of the military receive "basic pay," which is the largest component of a member's pay. A member's grade (usually the same as rank) and years of service determines the amount of basic pay received. Enlisted members can progress through nine enlisted pay grades during their careers. In 2023, most enlisted personnel started as recruits at Grade E-1 ($23,011/year basic pay); however, those with special skills or above average education started as high as Grade E-4 ($30,042/year basic pay). In addition to pay, the military provides many of life's necessities, such as food, clothing, and housing, or pays allowances for them. Other benefits include health care, 30 days paid vacation, legal assistance, recreational programs, education assistance, and military store privileges.
Services offering this occupation
Air Force
Army
Marine Corps
Navy