Position
Salary

How much does a Incident Commander make?

The average salary for a Incident Commander is $105,836 per year in the US.

An Incident Commander plays a crucial role in emergency situations. They manage the response and coordinate the efforts of various teams. This demanding job requires experience and strong leadership skills. Professionals in this role can earn a solid income.

The salary for an Incident Commander can vary. Most earn between $41,060 and $194,642 a year. The average yearly salary is about $105,836. Those with more experience or in larger organizations may earn at the higher end of this range. Here is a look at the salary distribution for Incident Commanders:

  • 11.01% earn up to $41,060
  • 12.46% earn between $41,060 and $56,418
  • 14.67% earn between $56,418 and $71,776
  • 11.16% earn between $71,776 and $87,135
  • 11.69% earn between $87,135 and $102,493
  • 10.39% earn between $102,493 and $117,851
  • 8.10% earn between $117,851 and $133,209
  • 4.74% earn between $133,209 and $148,567
  • 3.52% earn between $148,567 and $163,925
  • 3.97% earn between $163,925 and $179,284
  • 3.29% earn more than $179,284
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What are the highest paying cities for a Incident Commander?

Job seekers looking for Incident Commander roles can find some of the highest paying opportunities in Salem, Oregon, where salaries reach up to $190,963 annually. Other top cities include Sacramento and Riverside in California, and Chicago, Illinois, where average salaries hover around the $150,000 mark. These cities offer competitive compensation packages, making them attractive destinations for those in the field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Incident Commander jobs, highlighting Salem, OR with the highest at $190,963 and Raleigh, NC with the lowest at $86,426.
  1. Salem, OR
    Average Salary: $190,963
    Salem offers a stable environment for those leading emergency responses. With key agencies like the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training, professionals find ample opportunities to hone their crisis management skills. The city’s commitment to public safety enhances the role's impact.
    Find Incident Commander jobs in Salem, OR


  2. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $157,972
    In Sacramento, leading emergency responses brings a sense of community service. Key players like the California Emergency Management Agency provide robust support. The diverse environment enriches the experience, making each challenge unique and rewarding.
    Find Incident Commander jobs in Sacramento, CA


  3. Riverside, CA
    Average Salary: $150,282
    Riverside presents a dynamic setting for emergency leaders. With major institutions such as the Riverside County Fire Department, professionals can expect hands-on experience. The city’s focus on resilience offers a fulfilling career path.
    Find Incident Commander jobs in Riverside, CA


  4. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $115,748
    Chicago's fast-paced environment demands quick thinking and strong leadership. Working with agencies like the Chicago Fire Department provides valuable experience. The city’s diverse challenges keep the role exciting and impactful.
    Find Incident Commander jobs in Chicago, IL


  5. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $111,156
    In Austin, emergency leadership is about innovative problem-solving. Collaborating with organizations like the City of Austin Office of Emergency Management, professionals drive effective responses. The vibrant community spirit enhances job satisfaction.
    Find Incident Commander jobs in Austin, TX


  6. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $102,808
    Washington, DC, offers a unique blend of national and local responsibilities. Agencies such as the U.S. Department of Homeland Security provide a prestigious platform. The city’s high-stakes environment ensures constant engagement and learning.
    Find Incident Commander jobs in Washington, DC


  7. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $92,868
    Boston provides a rich history of emergency management. Working with institutions like the Boston Emergency Medical Services, professionals gain deep insights. The city’s dedication to public safety creates a meaningful career path.
    Find Incident Commander jobs in Boston, MA


  8. Houston, TX
    Average Salary: $89,777
    Houston’s emergency leaders face diverse challenges daily. With key players like the Houston Emergency Center, the role is both demanding and rewarding. The city’s focus on preparedness ensures a dynamic work environment.
    Find Incident Commander jobs in Houston, TX


  9. St. Louis, MO
    Average Salary: $87,842
    St. Louis offers a balanced environment for emergency leadership. Working with agencies such as the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, professionals find stability and growth. The city’s emphasis on community resilience enhances job fulfillment.
    Find Incident Commander jobs in St. Louis, MO


  10. Raleigh, NC
    Average Salary: $86,426
    Raleigh provides a supportive environment for emergency leaders. With institutions like the North Carolina Emergency Management, professionals thrive. The city’s commitment to safety and preparedness enriches the role's impact.
    Find Incident Commander jobs in Raleigh, NC

What are the best companies a Incident Commander can work for?

Peckham & McKenney leads the way with the highest average salary for Incident Commanders, offering around $243,976 annually. This figure significantly exceeds other companies like Washington State Patrol, which provides $84,082. Rural Metro and State of Washington also provide competitive salaries, around $81,738 and $80,336 respectively. These top-paying companies present excellent opportunities for those in the field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Incident Commander jobs, highlighting Peckham & McKenney with the highest at $243,976 and Flexential with the lowest at $52,327.
  1. Peckham & McKenney
    Average Salary: $243,976
    Peckham & McKenney offers rewarding Incident Commander roles with competitive pay. These positions are available across multiple locations, including major cities. The company focuses on environmental consulting and offers opportunities for career growth.


  2. Washington State Patrol
    Average Salary: $84,082
    The Washington State Patrol provides high-paying Incident Commander jobs. These roles are located throughout Washington state. Employees gain valuable experience in law enforcement and emergency response.


  3. Rural Metro
    Average Salary: $81,738
    Rural Metro offers Incident Commander positions with a solid salary. They have locations across several states, providing diverse work experiences. Employees receive comprehensive training in emergency services.


  4. State of Washington
    Average Salary: $80,336
    The State of Washington has many Incident Commander jobs available across the state. These roles come with a solid salary and offer a chance to contribute to public safety. Employees often find opportunities for advancement.


  5. Surefox North America
    Average Salary: $58,222
    Surefox North America offers Incident Commander jobs with an average salary. Locations include major cities across the United States. The company provides a supportive work environment and focuses on cybersecurity.


  6. Flexential
    Average Salary: $52,327
    Flexential offers Incident Commander positions with competitive salaries. The company operates data centers across the country, providing stable and rewarding roles. Employees benefit from a focus on safety and reliability.

How to earn more as a Incident Commander?

An Incident Commander plays a crucial role in managing emergency situations. They need a mix of skills and experience to earn more in this role. Focus on these areas to boost your earning potential. First, gain more experience in managing incidents. Experience brings confidence and skill, which can lead to higher pay.

Second, obtain additional certifications. These can show you have advanced skills and knowledge. Look for certifications related to emergency management, such as FEMA's Incident Command System (ICS) courses. These can set you apart from others.

Third, develop strong leadership skills. Being able to lead a team effectively under pressure can lead to higher positions and pay. Fourth, seek advanced degrees or specialized training. Degrees in emergency management or related fields can increase your qualifications. Finally, network within the industry. Build relationships with other professionals. This can lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries.

By focusing on these factors, an Incident Commander can enhance their career and earnings.

Here are some key factors to consider:

  1. Gain more experience in managing incidents
  2. Obtain additional certifications
  3. Develop strong leadership skills
  4. Seek advanced degrees or specialized training
  5. Network within the industry

Currently 163 Incident Commander job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Incident Commander in the US?

Learn what a Incident Commander does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Incident Commander today.
Position
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Incident Commander
163 Job Openings