Becoming a firefighter in Oklahoma is a dream job for many people. You will be able to have a great salary, work in an exciting and changing environment, and you can save lives. Understanding the requirements of the job before you apply is the best way to make sure that you will be ready. You don’t need degrees in fire science from top colleges and schools to qualify for the job, but more education can always be helpful. In the selection process, the more you have to offer the better the chance of getting a job.
How to Become a Firefighter in Oklahoma
Different areas and cities in Oklahoma have varying rules when it comes to applying for the job of a firefighter. All of the applicants are going to need to be able to pass a background check. Those who apply for the position will need to be at least 18 years old. In Oklahoma City, applicants can be between 18 and 44. They need to have a high school diploma, a GED, or the equivalent. Applicants can’t have any felony conviction in the last 10 years. Convictions more than 10 years ago go under review.
Featured Schools:
| Anna Maria College | Online BS in Fire Science |
| Eastern Oregon University | Online FSA Degree |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Online Degrees in Criminal Justice |
Applicants will need to be able to pass a written test and a physical agility test to make sure that they are capable of doing the job. Increase your chance of passing this test by starting physical training at least six months before you have to take it. If you already have a National or State of Oklahoma Paramedic Certificate, you can increase your odds of getting a job. You will need to have an EMT license before you complete a full probationary year, at least in Oklahoma City.
Employment Trends for Firefighters
The average growth rate for firefighter jobs is at 9%. This is lower than the 14% that other careers are seeing currently, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a job. It does mean, however, that you should take some fire science programs and get your paramedic training now to look better when the departments are hiring.
Salary and Employment Facts
Firefighters who are working in Oklahoma will have salaries that average $51,000 per year. However, you have to keep in mind that firefighters aren’t going to start out with this salary. Recruits and those who are in their first few years on the job are going to be making a bit less.
Firefighter Activity in the News
All across the Midwest, including Oklahoma, storms have been raging. This has caused wind damage, fires, and other life threatening events that firefighters throughout the state are contending with right now.