Fighting fires is a noble career that offers excitement and great pay. If you’ve thought about becoming a firefighter in North Carolina, then you should learn the requirements today so you can see what it takes to get the job. While you do not need to go to schools or colleges to earn fire science degrees, having that knowledge and a degree can be very helpful when you are trying to advance in the department.
How to Become a Firefighter in North Carolina
Applicants who want to become firefighters in North Carolina need to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or a GED. They also need to have a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record, since they will need to respond to emergencies. In addition, they can have no misdemeanor or felony convictions and no history of illegal drug abuse in the last year. In some areas of the state, applicants also need to have a North Carolina Emergency Medical Technician certificate. It is in your best interest to have one of these certificates, even if the department to which you want to apply doesn’t require it. The more training you have the better.
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If you meet the basic requirements, you will then fill out an application for the department. In some cities, you will need to fill out an application to work for the city, as well as an application for the department. You also need to take and pass a written exam that will test your reading comprehension. In some cities, you will need to have a Career Readiness Certificate instead of taking the written test.
You also have to pass the physical agility test. In Durham, you will take the physical test the same day that you take the written exam. This is not the case in other areas. You also need to complete a formal interview with a board.
Employment Trends for Firefighters
Attending programs in fire science can help you when you are getting ready to become a firefighter in North Carolina. Getting a job in the departments today can be difficult so you want to give yourself every possible advantage.
Salary and Employment Facts
Firefighters in North Carolina have an average salary of around $55,000 per year. The cost of living in many areas of the state is low enough that this is a very sizable wage, even though it is 3% lower than in other states.
Firefighter Activity in the News
Many North Carolina fire departments are going to attend the Raleigh Fire Department’s upcoming centennial celebration. Some of the activities include firefighting challenges between the departments.