Firefighters
🤍 Save CareerFirefighters play a vital role in the US economy, with 345K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $59,530, with projected growth of 3% through 2034 (As fast as average).
💰 Salary Range
📈 Growth Outlook
moderate — 3% projected growth🤖 AI Automation Risk
AI may assist but is unlikely to replace this role.
🤖AI Impact Deep Dive: Firefighters
🔬 AI Impact Deep Dive: Firefighters
AI Collaboration Score
Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)
🔮 Future Outlook
The core duties of firefighting are intensely physical and require real-time presence in unpredictable, hazardous environments where AI cannot currently operate. While AI may enhance peripheral tasks like incident reporting, equipment maintenance scheduling, and predictive wildfire modeling, the essential work of rescuing victims and extinguishing fires remains a human-centric manual task.
Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.
🌅A Day in the Life
🌟Career Outlook & Getting Started
Why It's Promising
With 3% projected growth and a median salary of $59,530, this career offers steady prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.
How to Get Started
Entry typically requires postsecondary nondegree award. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.
Who Is It For
Anyone interested in firefighters who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.
🎓Majors & Top Schools
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Firefighters make in 2026?▼
The median salary for a Firefighters is $59,530 per year. Entry-level positions start around $35,718, while experienced professionals can earn up to $95,248 depending on location, specialization, and industry.
How do I become a Firefighters?▼
Entry typically requires postsecondary nondegree award. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is certificate.
What degree do you need to be a Firefighters?▼
Most Firefighters positions require certificate. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.
What AP courses should I take to become a Firefighters?▼
Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Firefighters. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.
What does a Firefighters do on a daily basis?▼
As a firefighter, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
Is Firefighters a good career in 2026?▼
With 3% projected growth and a median salary of $59,530, this career offers steady prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent. Job growth is projected at 3%, which is declining. The median salary of $59,530 also positions it competitively in the job market.
Will AI replace Firefighterss?▼
Firefighters has an AI automation risk score of 30/100 (Low). AI will change how this work is done, but the core skills remain valuable. Professionals who learn to work with AI tools will have a significant advantage.
What kind of person makes a good Firefighters?▼
Anyone interested in firefighters who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.
Is Firefighters Right for You?
Take our career quiz to see how Firefighters matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.
Free · No signup required