Become a Firefighter in Minnesota

MinnesotaIf you’ve always dreamed of becoming a firefighter, and you are a resident of Minnesota, it’s important that you learn all of the requirements and qualifications to see if it might be a good career move for you. Being a firefighter is a great way to make a living by serving your community. Best of all, you know that you are helping people who need you.

How to Become a Firefighter in Minnesota

You need to have a high school diploma, and you have to be at least 18 years old. Colleges and degrees aren’t necessary, but you might find that they can be very helpful. Schools offering fire science degrees can give you a boost when it comes to finding employment.

If you hope to become a firefighter, you need to make sure that your body is going to be able to withstand the physical demands of the career. You will have to pass a physical test in order to be eligible to become a firefighter. Get your firefighter training through a local academy or one of the schools that offers the program. Once you meet the eligibility requirements, you will be able to take the Firefighter I exam. The test has 150 multiple-choice questions.

Featured Schools:

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

Once you do all of the above, you will be able to apply at local fire departments when they are hiring. They may have their own hiring processes, so it’s a good idea to ask for details.

Employment Trends for Firefighters

Minnesota is a good place to become a firefighter, but you can be sure the competition for the jobs is going to be just as tough here as in other states. With just a 9% estimated growth, you have to show that you are the right candidate. Having a degree and having EMT certification before you apply can help.

Salary and Employment Facts

Your salary is going to vary depending upon where you live in the state. If you live in a Metropolitan area, you are likely to be paid a higher salary. For example, according to the St. Paul Minnesota website, firefighters working in St. Paul have and average salary of about $55,000 per year. Those who have been in the department longer are going to have a higher salary, naturally. You also have to consider your location. Some areas, such as large cities, will have a higher salary.

Firefighter Activity in the News

Firefighters in St. Paul, MN rescued a woman from the third floor window of a home recently. While this might seem the stereotypical type of rescue, nothing is rote or stereotypical about any rescue. Firefighters much treat each rescue as a unique event because of the variations inherent in any fire.