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How much does a First Responder make?

The average salary for a First Responder is $83,612 per year in the US.

First responders, including police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians, play a crucial role in keeping communities safe. Their dedication often comes with a rewarding salary. The average yearly salary for a first responder is around $83,612. This figure can vary based on experience, education, and location.

The salary range for first responders can be quite broad. At the lower end, some new officers or EMTs may earn around $30,000 per year. As they gain experience, their salary can increase significantly. Experienced firefighters and senior police officers can earn upwards of $150,000 annually. This range reflects the diverse responsibilities and the critical nature of their work. Many first responders also receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, which add to the overall value of their compensation package.

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What are the highest paying cities for a First Responder?

First responders in Eugene, OR, enjoy some of the highest salaries, with an average of $94,293. Seattle, WA, follows closely with an average of $90,667. Richmond, VA, offers a competitive average of $75,942. These cities provide attractive compensation packages for those in critical roles. Job seekers may find these locations particularly appealing for career growth and financial stability.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for First Responder jobs, highlighting Eugene, OR with the highest at $94,293 and Cincinnati, OH with the lowest at $50,778.
  1. Eugene, OR
    Average Salary: $94,293
    In Eugene, emergency services play a vital role in the community. The Eugene Springfield Fire Department offers a supportive environment. Eugene's mild climate makes for manageable conditions.
    Find First Responder jobs in Eugene, OR


  2. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $90,667
    Seattle's emergency services are highly regarded. The Seattle Fire Department provides excellent training. Seattle's diverse population requires a broad skill set.
    Find First Responder jobs in Seattle, WA


  3. Richmond, VA
    Average Salary: $75,942
    Richmond offers a dynamic environment for emergency responders. The Richmond Fire Department is known for its strong community ties. Richmond's history adds a unique aspect to the job.
    Find First Responder jobs in Richmond, VA


  4. Albuquerque, NM
    Average Salary: $65,832
    Albuquerque's emergency services face unique challenges. The Albuquerque Fire Rescue Department offers diverse experiences. Albuquerque's high altitude can be a factor to consider.
    Find First Responder jobs in Albuquerque, NM


  5. Lansing, MI
    Average Salary: $63,731
    Lansing provides a stable environment for emergency responders. The Lansing Fire Department is well-equipped. Lansing's four-season climate requires preparedness for all weather.
    Find First Responder jobs in Lansing, MI


  6. San Antonio, TX
    Average Salary: $62,055
    San Antonio's emergency services are in high demand. The San Antonio Fire Department offers many opportunities. San Antonio's hot climate can be demanding.
    Find First Responder jobs in San Antonio, TX


  7. Tampa, FL
    Average Salary: $61,144
    Tampa's emergency services face frequent challenges. The Tampa Fire Rescue Department is proactive. Tampa's humid climate and hurricane season require constant vigilance.
    Find First Responder jobs in Tampa, FL


  8. Syracuse, NY
    Average Salary: $60,771
    Syracuse offers a mix of urban and rural challenges. The Syracuse Fire Department is well-respected. Syracuse's harsh winters require special skills.
    Find First Responder jobs in Syracuse, NY


  9. Yuma, AZ
    Average Salary: $59,134
    Yuma's emergency services deal with extreme heat. The Yuma Fire Department is prepared for desert conditions. Yuma's dry climate can be a challenge.
    Find First Responder jobs in Yuma, AZ


  10. Cincinnati, OH
    Average Salary: $50,778
    Cincinnati's emergency services are well-supported. The Cincinnati Fire Department offers many resources. Cincinnati's variable weather requires adaptability.
    Find First Responder jobs in Cincinnati, OH

What are the best companies a First Responder can work for?

Blue Rose Consulting Group, Inc. offers the highest salaries for first responder jobs, averaging $150,052 per year. MultiCare Health System follows closely with an average salary of $103,294. These companies provide competitive compensation, making them attractive options for job seekers.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for First Responder jobs, highlighting Blue Rose Consulting Group, Inc. with the highest at $150,052 and First Call Environmental with the lowest at $40,727.
  1. Blue Rose Consulting Group, Inc.
    Average Salary: $150,052
    Blue Rose Consulting Group, Inc. offers rewarding First Responder jobs with a focus on safety and emergency response. They operate in various locations, providing critical services to communities.


  2. MultiCare Health System
    Average Salary: $103,294
    MultiCare Health System provides excellent First Responder positions. They focus on health and safety, operating in multiple locations to ensure community well-being.


  3. Pacific Clinics
    Average Salary: $70,010
    Pacific Clinics offers First Responder jobs with a strong emphasis on community care. They operate in several locations, providing essential emergency services.


  4. Liberty Resources, Inc.
    Average Salary: $57,160
    Liberty Resources, Inc. provides First Responder jobs with a focus on community support. They operate in various locations, ensuring safety and emergency response.


  5. Upper Valley Services
    Average Salary: $50,000
    Upper Valley Services offers First Responder jobs with a commitment to community safety. They operate in multiple locations, providing essential emergency services.


  6. Rural Metro
    Average Salary: $49,069
    Rural Metro provides First Responder jobs with a focus on rural emergency response. They operate in several locations, offering critical services to communities.


  7. Allied Universal
    Average Salary: $48,526
    Allied Universal offers First Responder jobs with a strong emphasis on safety and security. They operate in various locations, providing essential emergency services.


  8. RHA Health Services
    Average Salary: $45,714
    RHA Health Services provides First Responder jobs with a focus on health and safety. They operate in multiple locations, ensuring community well-being.


  9. Securitas
    Average Salary: $41,698
    Securitas offers First Responder jobs with a commitment to safety and security. They operate in various locations, providing essential emergency services.


  10. First Call Environmental
    Average Salary: $40,727
    First Call Environmental provides First Responder jobs with a focus on environmental safety. They operate in several locations, offering critical emergency response services.

How to earn more as a First Responder?

First responders play a crucial role in society, ensuring safety and providing aid in emergencies. Those in this field often seek ways to increase their earnings. Understanding the factors that influence salary can help in making informed career decisions. By focusing on these areas, first responders can enhance their earning potential.

Several key factors contribute to higher earnings for first responders. These include gaining specialized certifications, accumulating more experience, choosing the right location, pursuing higher education, and considering additional roles. Each of these elements offers a pathway to greater financial rewards.

  1. Specialized Certifications: Obtaining certifications in areas like advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) or hazardous materials (HAZMAT) can lead to higher pay. These certifications demonstrate advanced skills and knowledge, making the responder more valuable.
  2. Experience: More years of experience often result in higher salaries. Employers value seasoned professionals who can handle complex situations with ease. Continuous learning and skill development can also lead to promotions and pay raises.
  3. Location: Salaries can vary significantly based on geographic location. Urban areas with higher living costs typically offer higher wages to attract and retain first responders. Researching salary trends in different regions can help in making location-based career decisions.
  4. Higher Education: Pursuing a degree in emergency management, criminal justice, or a related field can open up higher-paying opportunities. Advanced degrees may lead to administrative or supervisory roles with better compensation.
  5. Additional Roles: Taking on extra responsibilities, such as training new recruits or serving as a team leader, can increase earnings. These roles often come with additional pay or benefits, providing a boost to the overall salary.

Currently 131 First Responder job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a First Responder in the US?

Learn what a First Responder does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a First Responder today.
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First Responder
131 Job Openings