Position
Salary
An Incident Commander plays a key role in emergency situations, guiding teams to respond effectively. With a strong focus on safety and efficiency, this role requires experience and training. Professionals in this field often find rewarding positions in government, private sectors, and non-profits. On average, an Incident Commander earns about $103,772 a year. This figure can vary based on factors like location, industry, and experience level.
The salary range for Incident Commanders is broad, reflecting the critical nature of their work. The lowest 10% of earners make around $40,000 annually, while the top 10% earn more than $210,000. Most Incident Commanders fall between $70,909 and $117,273 per year. This wide range highlights the potential for growth and advancement in the field. Experience, certifications, and the complexity of incidents handled can influence these earnings.

Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $156,702
In Sacramento, this role involves managing emergencies to keep the city safe. Key employers include state agencies and large tech firms. Leadership and quick decision-making are crucial here.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $151,948
Riverside offers a chance to lead crisis response teams effectively. Companies such as UCR Health and local government agencies rely on skilled leaders. This role demands strong organizational skills and teamwork.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $118,349
In Chicago, this position means handling emergencies for a bustling metropolis. Major employers include city government and healthcare institutions. It requires strong leadership and coordination with various city services.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $110,688
Austin’s job involves managing crises in a tech-driven environment. Companies like Dell and the state government are prominent employers. This role requires adaptability and excellent communication skills.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $109,109
In Washington, DC, this role is vital for national security and emergency response. Employers include federal agencies and large corporations. Leadership and strategic planning are key here.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $96,438
Boston offers the chance to lead during emergencies in a historic city. Key employers include local government and renowned universities. This role demands strong analytical skills and quick thinking.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $91,575
In Houston, this role involves managing disaster response for the energy hub. Employers include oil companies and local government. It requires resilience and strong crisis management skills.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $87,842
St. Louis offers a role that means leading through emergencies in a diverse environment. Key employers include local government and large manufacturing firms. It demands strong problem-solving skills and teamwork.
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Raleigh, NC
Average Salary: $86,426
Raleigh provides a role in managing crises for a growing tech city. Employers include government agencies and tech firms. This role requires strong leadership and community engagement skills.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $84,042
In San Francisco, this role involves managing emergencies in a tech-heavy city. Major employers include tech giants and city government. It demands strong coordination skills and innovative thinking.
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Rural Metro
Average Salary: $82,628
Rural Metro offers top-notch compensation for Incident Commanders. This company operates nationwide, providing emergency services in many locations. They value leadership and safety, offering robust training and career growth opportunities. Positions are available across the United States.
State of Washington
Average Salary: $80,209
The State of Washington provides a competitive salary for Incident Commanders. They operate statewide, ensuring public safety through emergency response services. Job opportunities span various regions within the state, offering a chance to make a significant impact on community safety.
Surefox North America
Average Salary: $57,857
Surefox North America offers a solid salary for Incident Commanders. The company operates across multiple states, focusing on integrated security solutions. Incident Commanders here play a key role in coordinating responses and ensuring security across their sites.
Flexential
Average Salary: $52,162
Flexential provides a decent salary for Incident Commanders. This company offers data center solutions across the United States. Incident Commanders ensure safety and compliance within their facilities, supporting critical IT infrastructure.
State of Wyoming
Average Salary: $51,408
The State of Wyoming offers a reasonable salary for Incident Commanders. Operating statewide, they focus on emergency management and public safety. Incident Commanders here contribute to maintaining safety and security across various regions in Wyoming.
To earn more as an Incident Commander, focus on gaining experience and enhancing your skills. Experience plays a crucial role in securing higher positions. Incident Commanders with more years in the field often command higher salaries. They understand the job's nuances and manage crises effectively, which companies value.
Consider the following factors to increase your earning potential: