Question 1

How much do Fire Services Managers make?

Accepted Answer

Fire Services Managers earn a national median salary of $76,960 per year, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Entry-level Fire Services Managers (10th percentile) earn around $46,322. Experienced professionals (90th percentile) can earn $124,436 or more. The highest-paying states for Fire Services Managers include California ($104K), New York ($104K), and New Jersey ($103K).

Question 2

What does a Fire Services Manager do?

Accepted Answer

A program focusing on the principles, theory, and practices associated with the management of fire operations, firefighting services, and community fire issues. Common day-to-day tasks include observe and evaluate students' work to determine progress, provide feedback, and make suggestions for improvement, present lectures and conduct discussions to increase students' knowledge and competence using visual aids, such as graphs, charts, videotapes, and slides, and supervise and monitor students' use of tools and equipment. Fire Services Managers typically work in City or county fire departments, Emergency operations centers (EOCs), Fire prevention and inspection offices.

Question 3

How long does it take to become a Fire Services Manager?

Accepted Answer

Most Fire Services Manager training programs take 6mo-1.5yr to complete. Programs typically lead to a certificate or diploma and cover hands-on skills needed for entry-level positions. You can search and compare Fire Services Manager programs at TradeSchoolGo to find one that fits your schedule and budget.

Question 4

Is Fire Services Manager a good career?

Accepted Answer

The Fire Services Manager field is projected to see 2.0% job growth, which is about average, with approximately 7,650 job openings annually. Communities continue to invest in emergency preparedness, wildfire mitigation, and all-hazards response, increasing the need for strong incident command and administrative leadership. Retirements in the fire service can also create openings for new supervisors and managers.

Question 5

What skills do I need to become a Fire Services Manager?

Accepted Answer

Key skills for Fire Services Managers include Incident command and decision-making under pressure, Leadership, coaching, and team supervision, Emergency planning and risk assessment, Budgeting and resource management, and Knowledge of fire codes, regulations, and compliance. These skills are developed through formal training programs and on-the-job experience.

Question 6

What is the work environment like for a Fire Services Manager?

Accepted Answer

Fire Services Managers typically work in City or county fire departments, Emergency operations centers (EOCs), Fire prevention and inspection offices, Training academies and community colleges, Wildland fire and interagency command posts. Many roles follow a set schedule for administrative work, but leaders may work nights, weekends, and extended hours during major incidents or disasters. Work is a mix of office-based planning and field response, with moderate standing and walking and occasional climbing or lifting during emergencies. Stress and long shifts during incidents can be demanding even when the job is not continuously physical.

Question 7

What are the pros and cons of being a Fire Services Manager?

Accepted Answer

Advantages of a Fire Services Manager career include strong pay potential in supervisory roles, high-impact public safety work, and clear promotion pathways in many departments. Challenges to consider: the Fire Services Manager trade can involve high responsibility and pressure during emergencies, irregular hours during major incidents, and exposure to hazardous scenes and traumatic events.

Question 8

How much does Fire Services Manager school cost?

Accepted Answer

Fire Services Manager training program costs vary depending on the school, location, and program length. Certificate programs are generally less expensive than associate degree programs. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants may be available to help cover costs. Browse and compare Fire Services Manager programs with tuition information on TradeSchoolGo.

Question 9

Can I become a Fire Services Manager without a college degree?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Fire Services Manager careers typically require a certificate or diploma from a trade school or vocational program, not a four-year college degree. Most programs take 6mo-1.5yr to complete and focus on hands-on, practical training. Some Fire Services Managers also enter the field through apprenticeship programs that combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction.

Fire Services Manager

What Fire Services Managers Do

Common Tasks

Career/Technical Education Teachers, Postsecondary

What You'll Learn

Types of Fire Services Managers

Work Environment

Locations

Schedule

Physical Demands

Salary & Job Outlook

Top Paying States

Why Demand May Grow

Skills You'll Need

Pros & Cons

Pros

Cons

Common Questions About the Fire Services Manager Trade

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