Become a Firefighter in Arizona

ArizonaIn Arizona, you will find that wildfires are as much of a danger as building fires are, and that means that firefighters who are working in the state will likely have to fight both types of fire at some point. Having a good education with fire science degrees can help to give you more insight into the nature of fires, and they can help to prepare you for working as an actual firefighter.

How to Become a Firefighter in Arizona

In order to become a firefighter in Arizona, you have to be at least 18 years old, and you have to have either a high school diploma or a GED. Even though colleges aren’t necessary, getting an aforementioned fire science degree can be quite helpful. You will also need to be able to pass a background check.

You are going to need to pass the physical agility test, a physical exam, and a written test and practical exam. You also have to have Arizona State Firefighter I and II certifications in order to qualify. In Arizona, you will find that you also need to have other certifications in various programs in order to become a firefighter. You need to have the Arizona State Emergency Medical Technician certification, and First Responders Operations certification.

Featured Schools:

Anna Maria CollegeOnline BS in Fire Science
Eastern Oregon UniversityOnline FSA Degree
Southern New Hampshire UniversityOnline Degrees in Criminal Justice

If you want to improve your chance of becoming a firefighter in Arizona, you will also want to have a solid workout regimen that encompasses strength training as well as cardio training. Those who have all of the training they need and the certifications in addition to being in great shape are going to have a better shot at landing a good job with a department somewhere in the state.

Employment Trends for Firefighters

The employment outlook for firefighters isn’t exactly bleak, but it doesn’t seem to be growing as quickly as other sectors are. The national growth rate for the job is about 9%, and that’s about where it is in Arizona. Jobs are available, but you have to make sure that you take steps to improve your chances of getting one. Fire science degrees can help.

Salary and Employment Facts

The average salary for those who are working as firefighters in Arizona is $50,000 per year. Of course, this is all going to depend on the department for which you work, as well as your experience on the job. Going to school for a fire science degree can help improve your odds of getting a job, as well as of advancing in the department.

Firefighter Activity in the News

Girl Scouts of Southern Arizona and the City of Yuma Fire Department recently held their 2nd annual Camp Fury. It gives the scouts a chance to see what it’s like to work as a firefighter.