How much does a Incident Commander make?
An Incident Commander plays a crucial role in managing emergency situations. This job often requires a lot of experience and responsibility. The average yearly salary for an Incident Commander is around $106,610. This salary can change based on experience, location, and the type of organization.
The salary for Incident Commanders can vary widely. The lowest 10% earn about $42,360 a year. The highest 10% earn more than $211,500. Most Incident Commanders fall somewhere in the middle. For example, the 25th percentile earns about $57,736, while the 75th percentile earns around $165,371. This range shows that with more experience and skills, the salary can increase significantly.
What are the highest paying cities for a Incident Commander?

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Salem, OR
Average Salary: $196,487
In Salem, leading emergency response teams is a critical role. Companies like Salem Health and the Oregon National Guard offer opportunities to manage and coordinate disaster response. The city's focus on public safety makes it a rewarding place for professionals in this field.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $119,261
Chicago offers a dynamic environment for managing incidents. With major organizations like the Chicago Fire Department and the American Red Cross, professionals here play a key role in city safety. The city's diverse challenges provide a rich learning experience.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $117,483
Minneapolis is known for its proactive approach to public safety. Working with companies like the Minneapolis Police Department and Allina Health, professionals here ensure effective emergency management. The city's commitment to community safety makes it an ideal place for this career.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $106,203
In Washington, DC, managing incidents involves coordinating with federal agencies. The U.S. Secret Service and the Department of Homeland Security offer key roles. The city's political and cultural landscape provides a unique setting for emergency management.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $104,764
Austin offers a vibrant environment for emergency management. With companies like the Austin Fire Department and the Texas Department of Public Safety, professionals here manage a variety of incidents. The city's growing tech industry adds to the diversity of challenges.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $91,121
San Francisco is a hub for emergency response, with organizations like the San Francisco Fire Department and the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services. Professionals here manage natural disasters and urban emergencies. The city's innovative spirit makes it an exciting place to work.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $88,247
Boston offers a rich history of emergency management. Working with the Boston Emergency Medical Services and the Massachusetts National Guard, professionals here ensure public safety. The city's academic and medical institutions provide a strong support network.
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Raleigh, NC
Average Salary: $87,594
Raleigh provides a supportive environment for emergency management. With companies like the Raleigh Police Department and the North Carolina Emergency Management, professionals here coordinate disaster response. The city's growing population adds to the complexity of their work.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $79,904
Charlotte offers a fast-paced environment for managing incidents. Working with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and Duke Energy, professionals here ensure effective emergency response. The city's economic growth creates new challenges and opportunities.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $60,521
Miami is a key location for emergency management, with organizations like the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and the Florida Division of Emergency Management. Professionals here manage hurricanes and other natural disasters. The city's diverse population adds to the complexity of their work.
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What are the best companies a Incident Commander can work for?

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Travis County
Average Salary: $88,273
Travis County offers rewarding Incident Commander jobs. They operate in Austin, Texas. Employees manage emergency response and ensure public safety.
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Washington State Patrol
Average Salary: $81,942
Washington State Patrol provides Incident Commander roles with a competitive salary. They serve across Washington. Employees lead emergency response teams and coordinate with law enforcement.
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Allied Universal
Average Salary: $77,402
Allied Universal offers Incident Commander positions with a strong salary. They operate nationwide. Employees manage security operations and ensure safety at events and facilities.
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State of Washington
Average Salary: $75,341
The State of Washington provides Incident Commander jobs with a solid salary. They serve across Washington. Employees lead emergency response efforts and coordinate with various agencies.
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Rural Metro
Average Salary: $75,303
Rural Metro offers Incident Commander roles with a good salary. They operate in multiple states. Employees manage emergency medical services and ensure quick response times.
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Surefox North America
Average Salary: $60,361
Surefox North America provides Incident Commander jobs with a decent salary. They operate in the United States. Employees manage security operations and ensure safety for clients.
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Flexential
Average Salary: $55,421
Flexential offers Incident Commander positions with a fair salary. They operate in major cities. Employees manage data center security and ensure operational safety.
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Securitas
Average Salary: $50,873
Securitas provides Incident Commander roles with a competitive salary. They operate globally. Employees manage security operations and ensure safety for clients in various locations.
How to earn more as a Incident Commander?
Becoming a top-performing Incident Commander can lead to higher earnings. This role requires strong leadership skills and the ability to manage complex situations. To enhance your earning potential, focus on the following key areas:
- Experience: Gaining more experience in emergency management can lead to higher pay. Look for opportunities to work on diverse projects and in different environments.
- Certifications: Earning certifications such as the Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) or Incident Command System (ICS) credentials can boost your resume and salary.
- Education: Pursuing advanced degrees in emergency management, public administration, or a related field can open up higher-paying positions.
- Networking: Building a strong professional network can lead to job opportunities and salary negotiations. Attend conferences and join professional organizations.
- Performance: Demonstrating excellence in past roles can lead to promotions and higher pay. Keep track of your achievements and be ready to discuss them during interviews.
Focusing on these areas can help an Incident Commander earn more. Continuous learning and professional development are key to advancing in this career. Stay proactive and seek out opportunities to grow and excel.



