How to Become A Firefighter in Nevada

According to the statistics reported by the US Fire Administration, in 2018, the state of Nevada had an average of 2.2 deaths and 13.6 injuries per 1,000 fires. Whereas, the national average was reported as 2.5 deaths and 9.8 injuries per 1,000 fires.

Should I Become a Firefighter in Nevada?

All prospective Firefighters in the state of Nevada must earn an EMT certification. Not only that, but they also must not be convicted of any felonies. Moreover, all candidates must hold (at least) a High School Diploma or a GED. However, many of the local Fire Departments/Stations prefer hiring candidates who have earned a college degree. Further hiring requirements are detailed as follows.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2019)

Career Outlook

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasted a 5% employment growth for Firefighters between 2018 and 2028. Moreover, 324,620 Firefighters were reported to be employed in the US, and 2,020 of those were in Nevada in 2019. In addition to that, BLS predicted that the employment numbers of Firefighters will rise to 350,000 by 2028.

Steps to Becoming a Firefighter in Nevada

If becoming a firefighter is your goal and you want to work in Nevada, then this hiring guideline can be of help. The general hiring criteria has been explained below, although the local Fire Departments and Stations may have additional hiring requirements.

1. Meet the Minimum Education Requirements

The state of Nevada requires all Firefighters to hold at least a High School Diploma or a GED. Whereas, many local Fire Departments and Stations often hire candidates who possess a 2-year associate’s or a 4-year bachelor’s degree in Fire Science.

2. Clear the Hiring Process

After officially applying for the position of Firefighter, all candidates are subjected to several tests that must be cleared to get hired. These tests include,

• A written exam
• The physical ability test (CPAT)
• An oral interview
• A complete medical exam
• A drug test
• Background check, and so on

3. Get Certified as an EMT

All interested individuals who want to be employed as Firefighters in the state of Nevada must get certified as Emergency Medical Technicians who can provide immediate medical care to the rescued. They must hold a valid EMT certification at the time of application or soon after getting hired.

4. Graduate from a Fire Academy

All firefighters in Nevada must get their Firefighter I/II certifications. To get these certifications they are required to attend a Fire Academy. All recruits must graduate successfully from their Fire Academies to officially join their post.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Firefighter in Nevada?

Becoming a Firefighter in the state of Nevada can take you about 2 years or more. This duration varies depending upon the type of education and certifications you decide to complete i.e., High School Diploma or a College Degree and EMT or Paramedic certifications as well as the Firefighter I/II certifications.

What Are the Requirements of Becoming a Firefighter in Nevada?

If your goal is to become a part of Nevada’s Fire Emergency System as a Firefighter, you must complete the state-set requirements. These requirements state that the candidate must,

• Hold at least a High School Diploma or a GED
• Be at least 18 years old legal US citizen
• Possess a valid "Class C" Nevada driver’s license at the time of appointment
• Have a height that is proportionate to their weight
• Be physically and mentally fit
• Not have been convicted of a felony

How Much Will I be Able to Earn as a Firefighter in Nevada?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported $69,310 as the annual mean salary of Firefighters employed in the state of Nevada in 2019.

Firefighters In Other States

How to Become a Firefighter in NC

If you want to know how to become a firefighter in NC, then there are certain steps and requirements you would have to meet. You will have to meet the minimum educational requirements, which is a high school diploma or a GED in most states. You might also have to get EMT certification to apply for the position of a firefighter. Every fire department in the country has a strict hiring process that you will have to clear to become a firefighter in North Carolina. Once you pass all the steps, you will have to complete fire academy training to get sworn in as a firefighter.