Become a Firefighter in Utah

UtahIf you are considering trying to become a firefighter in Utah, you should begin your physical training as early as possible. You want to be in the best possible physical shape simply because the job is so demanding.

How to Become a Firefighter in Utah

Depending on where you live in the state, and the county in which you are trying to find employment, the requirements are going to differ for becoming a firefighter. Always make sure that you check to see what the requirements are going to be for the department that you want to join. In all instances though, you are going to have to be at least 18 year old and a high school graduate or GED holder. You also need to have an EMT certificate for the state of Utah.

Even though it isn’t necessary, it is good idea to have some fire training when you apply. Having fire science degrees from schools such as Utah Valley State College and other colleges can help you receive preference points when you are applying.

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 be placed on the hiring roster, the you will have to pass a firefighter exam as well as a physical agility test. The highest scores from the written exam will be able to take the physical agility test. Passing all of the portions of the tests can get you on the roster for when a spot opens.

Employment Trends for Firefighters

The departments usually only give their tests for the position every couple of years, and this means that the competition is always fierce. With only a 9% growth in the job nationwide, it is important that you show the departments that you are the best candidate for the job. This means you should attend those aforementioned fire science programs so you can get those preference points.

Salary and Employment Facts

You can be sure that you will have a great salary when you are a firefighter in Utah. The average salary is $53,000 per year. Your salary will vary based on time in the department, your location, and other factors.

Firefighter Activity in the News

Firefighters in Utah work in their own communities and state, but that doesn’t mean that they won’t go wherever help is needed. A number of Utah firefighters, along with hundreds from other states, recently traveled to Colorado to help them with their devastating wildfires.