Massachusetts is a state with a lot of history. It’s also a beautiful place to live and work, and if you’ve been searching for a great new career, then firefighting might be the choice for you.
How to Become a Firefighter in Massachusetts
Your first step is going to be getting ready to take the firefighter civil service test. The state offers the exam every two years. It is a multiple-choice exam, but you don’t have to know anything about firefighting to be able to complete it. Remember, this is the civil service test and it simply means you are eligible for further consideration as a potential firefighter.
You will also have to pass the physical ability test. During the test, you will have to wear a weighted vest that will simulate the weight of firefighting gear. You may want to start getting in shape and by engaging in some intense physical training now so you can pass this test. Once you pass, you will be able to start looking for employment at a fire department in the state.
Featured Schools:
| Anna Maria College | https://aspireclicks.com/AnnaMariaFireScienceSchoolsFSB |
| Eastern Oregon University | https://aspireclicks.com/EasternOregonFireScienceSchoolsFSB |
| Southern New Hampshire University | https://aspireclicks.com/SNHUFireScienceSchoolsFSB |
The Massachusetts Firefighting Academy is the best place to gain the skills that you need to become a firefighter. You have to be employed by a fire department to be able to train at the academy, so you have to complete the above first. The academy has 12-week programs that will complete your beginning training. You will find that you can return to the academy to take other classes including fire scene investigation.
Employment Trends for Firefighters
Getting into a fire department today might seem tougher than it used to be, and that’s because the growth rate for the job around the country is only 9%. Jobs are still coming available. However, more people are competing for them. This means that you can increase your chances if you attend schools and colleges that have fire science degrees.
Salary and Employment Facts
Firefighters in Massachusetts will have an average salary of $65,000 per year. This is one of the highest firefighter rates in the nation, and it is no wonder that so many want to have this job.
Firefighter Activity in the News
Firefighters in Massachusetts have been busy with brushfires lately, and it led to the injury of a Paxton firefighter. The unnamed firefighter was part of a crew dealing with a brushfire near Leicester. The fireman receives an injury to the back of the head from a falling branch. He was taken to the hospital, but the injury was not serious.