4 Firefighter Resume Examples + Popular Templates
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A firefighter is someone who responds to emergencies like fires, accidents, and natural disasters to save lives and protect property. They put out fires, rescue people, provide medical help, and educate the community about fire prevention. Firefighters need to be physically fit, brave, good at teamwork, and great at problem-solving. And I’ll show you how to write a firefighting resume that shows those qualities.
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Firefighter Resume Example
Matthew Davidson
Firefighter
123-456-7890
matthewdavidson@email.com
linkedin.com/in/matthew.davidson
Resume Summary
Certified and highly skilled Firefighter with over 7 years of experience. Eager to support the Fort Worth Fire Department in safeguarding lives and property through the efficient and safe response to emergencies by leveraging extensive experience in rescues and first aid. Recognized by the Phoenix Fire Department for extinguishing a 5-acre wildfire, protecting residential properties and local wildlife.
Experience
Firefighter
Phoenix Fire Department, Phoenix, AZ
July 2017–August 2024
Key Qualifications & Responsibilities
- Responding to fire emergencies and conducting rescue operations.
- Performing maintenance of fire equipment.
- Training and mentoring newly recruited firefighters.
- Participating in fire drills and physical fitness training.
Key Achievement:
- Extinguished a 5-acre wildfire, protecting residential properties and local wildlife.
Education
Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science
Tarrant County College, Fort Worth, TX
August 2013–May 2016
Relevant extracurricular activities
- Active Member, Fire Science Club
- Volunteer, Community Fire Safety Awareness Program
Academic achievements
- Graduated with Honors.
- Received the Best Student Award in Fire Science.
Skills
- Fire suppression and rescue techniques
- Equipment maintenance
- Excellent physical condition
- Emergency medical care
- Teamwork
- Problem-solving
- Decision-making under pressure
- First aid and CPR
Certifications
- Certified Firefighter, Texas Commission on Fire Protection, 2016
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certification, National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians, 2016
Awards
- Firefighter of the Year, Phoenix Fire Department, 2020
Memberships
Member of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) since 2017
- Delivered a lecture on Fire Safety during the 2022 IAFF conference, Phoenix
Languages
- English—Native
- Spanish—Intermediate
Interests
- Volunteering for local community events.
- Training for and participating in marathons.
Entry-Level / Junior Firefighter Resume Example
An entry-level firefighter, often called a probationary firefighter or rookie, responds to emergencies, learns fire suppression techniques, and provides medical aid under the supervision of experienced firefighters. They also assist with equipment maintenance and participate in training exercises. Essential skills include physical fitness, teamwork, a willingness to learn, and basic emergency response knowledge.
Here’s a sample beginner/entry-level firefighter resume:
James T. Smith
Entry-Level Firefighter
james.smith@mail.com
(123) 456-7890
linkedin.com/in/jamestsmith
Resume Objective
Dedicated and physically fit individual seeking an entry-level firefighter position. Leveraging 2 years of volunteer firefighting experience and certified qualifications to protect lives and property while enhancing community safety. Committed to teamwork, continuous learning, and delivering high-quality emergency response services at San Francisco Fire Department.
Education
Firefighter I Academy
Fire Training Academy, Los Angeles, CA
Graduated: May 2023
- Completed 240 hours of intensive training in fire suppression, rescue operations, and hazardous materials handling.
- Acquired knowledge in fire behavior, building construction, and emergency medical procedures.
High School Diploma
Springfield High School, Springfield, IL
Graduated: June 2020
- Relevant Coursework: First Aid and CPR, Physical Education, Chemistry
- Member of the School Safety Committee
Volunteer Experience
Volunteer Firefighter
July 2021–August 2023
Springfield Volunteer Fire Department, Springfield, IL
Key Responsibilities:
- Responded to fire alarms and emergency calls, assisting in fire suppression and rescue operations.
- Operated and maintained firefighting equipment and apparatus.
- Conducted fire prevention and safety inspections in residential and commercial properties.
- Participated in community outreach programs to educate the public on fire safety and prevention.
- Attended regular training sessions to maintain and enhance firefighting skills.
Key Achievements:
- Successfully assisted in extinguishing 50+ fires and rescuing 30+ individuals from hazardous situations.
- Conducted over 20 fire safety workshops in the community, increasing public awareness and knowledge.
- Recognized by the fire chief for dedication and outstanding performance during emergency responses.
Certifications
- Firefighter I Certification, California State Fire Marshal, May 2023
- EMT-B Certification, National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT), March 2022
- CPR and First Aid Certification, American Red Cross, February 2021
Skills
- Fire Suppression
- Rescue Operations
- Hazardous Materials Handling
- Fire Prevention and Safety Inspections
- Equipment Operation and Maintenance
- Team Collaboration
- Communication
- Problem-Solving
- Physical Fitness
- Stress Management
Projects & Initiatives
Community Fire Safety Education Program
- Developed and implemented a fire safety education program for local schools.
- Delivered presentations and hands-on demonstrations to students, teaching fire prevention techniques and emergency response actions.
- Successfully increased fire safety awareness among 500+ students, contributing to a safer community.
Equipment Maintenance Improvement Initiative
- Identified and addressed gaps in the maintenance schedule for firefighting equipment.
- Developed a comprehensive maintenance checklist and training program for volunteers.
- Improved equipment reliability and readiness, reducing downtime by 15%.
Languages
- English: Native Proficiency
- Spanish: Conversational Proficiency
Middle Firefighting Resume Example
Mid-level firefighters operate and maintain firefighting equipment, lead small teams during emergencies, and conduct training sessions for junior firefighters. Essential skills include advanced fire suppression techniques, leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication.
Here’s a sample resume for middle firefighting officers:
Robert A. Johnson
Firefighter
robert.johnson@mail.com
(789) 012-3456
linkedin.com/in/robertajohnson
Resume Summary
Seasoned firefighter with 5 years of professional experience in fire suppression, emergency medical response, and public safety education. Dedicated to protecting the lives and property of local residents. Successfully led fire suppression efforts in 100+ fire incidents, minimizing property damage and saving numerous lives.
Professional Experience
Firefighter
San Francisco Fire Department, San Francisco, CA
June 2020–December 2023
Key Responsibilities:
- Respond to emergency calls, performing fire suppression, search and rescue, and emergency medical services.
- Operate and maintain firefighting equipment, including hoses, ladders, and emergency vehicles.
- Conduct fire safety inspections and investigations to ensure compliance with fire codes and regulations.
- Engage in community outreach programs to educate the public on fire prevention and safety practices.
Key Achievements:
- Successfully led fire suppression efforts in 100+ fire incidents, minimizing property damage and saving numerous lives.
- Developed and implemented a fire safety education program, reaching over 1,000 community members annually.
- Recognized with the "Firefighter of the Year" award in 2019 for exemplary performance and dedication.
- Enhanced department efficiency by creating a new equipment maintenance protocol, reducing equipment downtime by 20%.
Volunteer Firefighter
Springfield Volunteer Fire Department, Springfield, IL
June 2018–June 2020
Key Achievements:
- Played a critical role in reducing response times by 15% through improved coordination and training.
- Received commendation for bravery and quick action during a high-rise building fire.
Education
Firefighter I & II Academy
Fire Training Academy, Los Angeles, CA
Graduated: May 2020
- Comprehensive training in fire behavior, advanced firefighting techniques, rescue operations, and hazardous materials management.
- Specialized coursework in leadership, fire prevention, and emergency medical procedures.
Associate Degree in Fire Science
City College of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
Graduated: May 2018
- Relevant Coursework: Fire Protection Systems, Firefighter Safety, Emergency Medical Services, Fire Investigation
- Member of the Fire Science Club
Certifications
- Firefighter I & II Certification, California State Fire Marshal, May 2020
- EMT-B Certification, National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT), March 2019
- Hazardous Materials Technician Certification, California Specialized Training Institute, February 2019
- CPR and First Aid Certification, American Red Cross, February 2016
Skills
- Fire Suppression
- Search and Rescue Operations
- Hazardous Materials Management
- Fire Investigation and Inspection
- Emergency Medical Response
- Leadership and Team Coordination
- Communication
- Problem-Solving
- Physical Fitness
- Stress Management
Projects & Initiatives
Fire Safety Education Program
- Developed and implemented a comprehensive fire safety education program for schools and community centers.
- Delivered interactive presentations and demonstrations on fire prevention, emergency response, and safety protocols.
- Successfully increased fire safety awareness, contributing to a 25% decrease in fire-related incidents in the community.
Equipment Maintenance Protocol Development
- Identified inefficiencies in the department's equipment maintenance procedures.
- Created and implemented a new maintenance protocol, including detailed checklists and training for all personnel.
- Improved equipment reliability and readiness, reducing downtime by 20%.
Languages
- English: Native Proficiency
- Spanish: Professional Working Proficiency
Experienced / Senior Firefighter Resume Example
Senior firefighter jobs, such as Fire Captain, Battalion Chief, or Fire Chief, involve high-level management and strategic oversight within the fire department. Responsibilities include setting departmental policies, managing large teams, overseeing major emergency operations, planning budgets, and coordinating with other emergency services. Essential skills include executive leadership, strategic planning, decision-making, and advanced firefighting expertise.
Here’s a sample resume for experienced firefighters:
Michael T. Anderson
Fire Chief
michael.anderson@mail.com
(987) 654-3210
linkedin.com/in/michaeltanderson
Professional Summary
Dedicated and strategic fire chief with 12 years of professional experience in fire service, including leadership roles in fire suppression, emergency management, and public safety education. Successfully reduced fire incident response times by 20% by implementing new dispatch protocols. Seeking to leverage expertise and leadership skills to ensure community safety and operational excellence at the New York Fire Department.
Professional Experience
Fire Chief
San Francisco Fire Department, San Francisco, CA
June 2019–August 2023
Key Responsibilities:
- Led and managed all fire department operations, including fire suppression, rescue operations, and emergency medical services.
- Developed and implemented policies and procedures to ensure departmental efficiency and effectiveness.
- Oversaw budget management, resource allocation, and personnel administration.
- Coordinated with local, state, and federal agencies during major emergencies and disaster response.
- Conducted regular training and professional development programs for department staff.
Key Achievements:
- Successfully reduced fire incident response times by 20% through the implementation of new dispatch protocols.
- Led the department to achieve ISO Class 1 rating, reflecting excellence in fire protection services.
- Implemented a comprehensive community risk reduction program, resulting in a 30% decrease in fire-related incidents.
- Recognized with the "Fire Chief of the Year" award in 2020 for outstanding leadership and service.
Deputy Fire Chief
San Francisco Fire Department, San Francisco, CA
June 2015–June 2019
Key Achievements:
- Improved firefighter training programs, resulting in a 25% increase in operational readiness.
- Led a task force that successfully implemented new fire prevention measures, reducing residential fire incidents by 15%.
- Received commendation for exceptional leadership during a multi-agency wildfire response effort.
Battalion Chief
San Francisco Fire Department, San Francisco, CA
June 2011–June 2015
Key Achievements:
- Developed and implemented training programs that increased firefighter proficiency by 25%, resulting in improved operational readiness and safety.
- Conducted over 150 fire inspections per year, leading to a 20% increase in compliance with fire safety regulations and reduced risk of fire incidents.
- Oversaw a budget of $2 million, optimizing resource allocation to ensure operational efficiency and cost-effective management of fire department activities.
Education
Master of Science in Emergency Management
University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
Graduated: May 2019
Bachelor of Science in Fire Science
University of California, Berkeley, CA
Graduated: May 20011
Certifications
- Chief Fire Officer Certification, National Fire Academy, December 2018
- Hazardous Materials Incident Commander, California Specialized Training Institute, February 2017
- Fire Officer Certification, California State Fire Marshal, June 2015
- EMT-B Certification, National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT), March 2012
- CPR and First Aid Certification, American Red Cross, February 2009
Skills
- Fire Department Management
- Emergency Response and Incident Command
- Fire Suppression and Rescue Operations
- Budgeting and Resource Allocation
- Policy Development and Implementation
- Community Outreach and Fire Prevention
- Training and Professional Development
- Interagency Coordination
- Risk Assessment and Management
- Crisis Communication
Conferences & Speaking Engagements
"Innovative Fire Prevention Strategies"
International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) Annual Conference, August 2020
- Presented on the development and implementation of successful fire prevention programs.
"Effective Leadership in Emergency Management"
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Conference & Expo, June 2019
- Discussed best practices and strategies for leading fire departments during large-scale emergencies.
Publications
- Anderson, M. T. (2020). "Enhancing Firefighter Training Programs for Better Preparedness." Journal of Fire Science and Technology, 14(3), 123–138.
- Anderson, M. T. (2019). "Strategies for Effective Community Risk Reduction." International Fire Service Journal, 11(4), 89–102.
- Anderson, M. T. (2018). "Leadership in Emergency Management: Lessons from the Field." Fire Chief Magazine, 10(2), 45–58.
Resume Templates for Firefighters
Based on an analysis of 11 million resumes created using the Zety Resume Builder, these are the top three resume template choices favored by firefighters.
Concept
For experienced firefighters, I would suggest choosing Concept, modern resume template designed for reverse-chronological formats. With a thin sidebar for dates and section icons, it offers customizable colors for headings and sidebar. Choose from dozens of combinations to create your perfect look.
Cascade
If you’re starting out as a firefighter, I recommend choosing Cascade, a professional resume design. It's built to navigate Applicant Tracking Systems and impresses with its clear and stylish presentation of your achievements.
Crisp
I recommend Crisp as a stylish one-page resume template offering ample white space, ideal for firefighters. It effectively showcases your skills and versatile professional experience, allowing you to make a strong impression quickly. The clean resume icons add a dynamic touch, ensuring the hiring manager remains engaged until the very end.
How to Write an Effective Firefighter Resume:
1. Start With the Best Firefighter Resume Format
In a job where a single mistake can prove fatal, a firefighter's resume format matters. You fight fires, but your resume template has to start them—just not literally.
Here’s how to apply proper resume formatting to a firefighter resume:
- Pick a trusted layout like the reverse-chronological resume template. It puts your best moments where the chief will see them.
- Use white space, clear headings on the resume, and the best resume fonts to keep it visual.
- Apply 11–12 size for all entries, except for headings, which should be larger.
- Set the line spacing to 1–1.15 points.
- Choose 1-inch margins on all sides.
- Last, save your resume as a PDF. Once you send it in Word format, firefighters' resumes can become structurally unsound.
Make sure you include these resume parts on your fire department resume:
- Header: Include your name and contact details.
- Summary: Highlight the key points of your resume concisely.
- Experience: Showcase your top firefighting accomplishments.
- Education: List relevant educational background.
- Skills: Include the skills specified in the job advertisement.
- Additional Sections: Add any relevant certifications, training courses, or notable volunteer work.
It may be obvious, but stay out of trouble. You won't get hired with a criminal record.
Pro Tip: Switching to firefighting from another career? Highlight transferable achievements. The combination resume format does that best.
2. Add the Perfect Firefighter Job Description for a Resume
You can’t just say “experienced firefighter” on a resume. You’ve got to show accomplishments the fire chief cares about, and metrics that prove their size.
Lucky for you, almost 70% of all U.S. firefighters are paid volunteers, so it’s easy to gain experience as a firefighter.
But still, no matter how much and how well of a job you did as a firefighter, if you don’t show it in your work experience section, your resume will flop. Here’s what I recommend you do to customize your resume:
- Start with your newest job title first.
- Add the department’s name and the dates of when you worked there.
- Show job accomplishments in the form of bullet points.
See some of the more common responsibilities and resume keywords to target on firefighter resumes:
Firefighter Keywords for a Resume
- Responding to Emergencies: Quickly and efficiently respond to fire alarms, medical emergencies, and other calls for assistance.
- Fire Suppression: Extinguish fires using various firefighting equipment and techniques.
- Rescue Operations: Conduct search and rescue operations to save individuals trapped in burning buildings or other hazardous situations.
- Medical Assistance: Provide first aid and basic life support to injured or ill individuals at the scene.
- Equipment Maintenance: Inspect, maintain, and repair firefighting equipment and apparatus to ensure they are in good working order.
- Training: Participate in ongoing training and drills to maintain and improve firefighting skills and knowledge.
- Fire Prevention: Conduct fire inspections and educate the public on fire prevention and safety practices.
- Incident Reporting: Prepare detailed reports on fire incidents, medical responses, and other emergency calls.
- Team Collaboration: Work closely with other firefighters and emergency personnel to coordinate and execute emergency response plans.
- Community Engagement: Engage with the community through fire safety programs, school visits, and public events.
- Hazardous Material Response: Identify and safely handle hazardous materials during emergency situations.
And remember to start each bullet point with an action verb:
Firefighter Resume Action Verbs
- Responded
- Extinguished
- Rescued
- Administered
- Operated
- Inspected
- Maintained
- Conducted
- Trained
- Educated
- Coordinated
- Reported
- Engaged
- Handled
- Collaborated
Prove you’re responsible about being on time. That’s a big thing in the fire service considering it’s paramilitary background. As we say, ‘Early is on time, on time is late, and late is unacceptable.
3. Make Your Education Section Count
Let’s get one thing straight. Firefighters don’t need an education. A high school diploma is enough. But it’s better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it. In other words, you have to show it. So—use it to show the right stuff.
Start the resume education section with:
- School Name and Location
- Years in School
- Degree
Then, add relevant firefighter accomplishments like:
- GPA
- School Projects
- Club Memberships
- Academic Awards
- Relevant Coursework
Not sure if high school graduation belongs on a resume? Check here: Putting High School on a Resume
4. Put Skills on a Resume for a Firefighter
Don’t let your firefighter resume go unnoticed. The key? Understand the specific skills the fire department values. Then—highlight those skills in your skills section and weave them into your experience bullet points.
Firefighter Resume Skills
- Fire Suppression Techniques
- Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
- Hazardous Materials Handling
- Search and Rescue Operations
- Incident Command System (ICS)
- Fire Prevention and Inspection
- Use of Firefighting Equipment (hoses, ladders, etc.)
- Breathing Apparatus Operation
- Vehicle Extrication
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
- Advanced First Aid
- Structural Firefighting
- Wildland Firefighting
- Rope and Technical Rescue
- Water Rescue
- Fire Investigation
- Public Safety Education
- Thermal Imaging Camera Operation
- Fire Alarm Systems Understanding
- Building Construction Knowledge
- Microsoft Office Skills
- Interpersonal Skills
- Leadership Skills
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Decision Making Skills
- Written and Verbal Communication
- Active Listening
- Analytical Skills
- Organizational Skills
- Problem Solving
- Time Management
- Critical Thinking
Departments are usually looking for solid work ethic and honesty. I would say those are two of the most highly coveted traits. Anything on a resume that shows those would be good.
By reviewing 11 million resumes made in our builder, we discovered that:
- Firefighters include an average of 9 skills on their resumes.
- Firefighters frequently list the following skills as their top qualities: fire containment, firefighting, fire safety, and conditions assessment.
- Firefighters tend to create resumes spanning about 2.5 pages in length.
Pro Tip: Don’t be a woo-woo! Never brag in a resume for firefighters. “Responsible for truck maintenance and ordering supplies” is resume gold. “Carried two old ladies from a burning building” isn’t.
5. Show Other Sections on Your Firefighter Resume
I suggest you never stop here. Spending a bit more time developing bonus sections on a resume will increase your chances of securing a job.
Here are some suggestions:
- Certifications: List relevant certifications such as EMT, Paramedic, Hazardous Materials (HazMat) certification, Fire Instructor certification, or Advanced Firefighter certification.
- Specialized Training: Include specialized training courses attended, such as swift water rescue, high-angle rescue, confined space rescue, or advanced lifesaving techniques.
- Awards and Commendations: Highlight any awards, commendations, or recognitions received for exemplary service, bravery, or specific achievements.
- Volunteer Experience: Showcase volunteer work, especially related to firefighting, emergency response, or community service.
- Professional Memberships: Include memberships in professional organizations such as the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) or the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
- Community Involvement: Detail involvement in community outreach programs, public safety education, or fire prevention initiatives.
- Languages: Mention any additional languages spoken, along with proficiency levels, especially if bilingual skills are relevant to the community served.
- Fitness Achievements: Include details of physical fitness training, achievements, or participation in related events, demonstrating your physical readiness for the job.
- Publications: If you have authored or contributed to articles, research papers, or manuals related to firefighting or emergency response, include a section for publications.
Most fire departments are taking over EMS responsibilities, so an EMT cert is useful. However, a paramedic certification is almost a guaranteed "in". It can take a year or sometimes 2 to get it. But with a paramedic license, many departments (even big cities) will let you skip most of the long drawn out hiring process and straight-up hire you.
Pro Tip: Got a valid driver’s license? That’s a must on a resume for firefighter jobs. Also, add a DOD fire cert if you’ve got it. Other certifications from the NFPA look good, too.
6. Choose a Firefighter Resume Objective or Resume Summary
The typical job opening generates 250 resumes, according to our HR statistics report. That means the chief will likely skim—not read—your resume. Change that with a details-anchored firefighter resume objective or resume summary.
- A resume objective shows passion. Use one if your experience is just a spark.
- A resume summary shows experience. Write one if you were on the job when Steve McQueen was pretending to be.
Here’s how to craft a career profile for a firefighter resume:
- Begin with a descriptive term like strategic or dedicated.
- Add your title (firefighter, fire chief).
- Include your years of experience (1, 3+, 12).
- State your objective (enhance community safety at City Fire Department).
- Highlight your most significant academic or professional achievement.
- Review thoroughly to eliminate any errors.
Eyes and ears open, mouth shut. There’s too much to learn when you’re a rookie. That’s very important considering you may be fighting anywhere from 20 to 1,500 applicants!
Pro Tip: Write your firefighter EMT resume objective or resume summary last. With the rest of your resume in place, the spark of inspiration will come easy.
7. Write a Firefighter Cover Letter
Do you need to send a cover letter with a firefighter resume? Yes, but—
- Not a generic cover letter.
- Not a braggy cover letter.
- Not a why I want to be a firefighter essay.
To actually succeed with the perfect cover letter, follow these steps I’ll lay out for you:
- Format your cover letter.
- Begin your firefighter cover letter by addressing it to the department chief by name.
- Craft an engaging opening sentence to capture their interest right away.
- In the second paragraph, demonstrate your understanding of firefighter responsibilities and duties.
- Showcase how your skills and experiences make you an ideal candidate for the role.
- Finish your cover letter with a strong closing statement that leaves a lasting impression.
Should you follow up on your firefighter cover letter in three days? Maybe in one week? Do both. Two short, polite emails won’t annoy anyone, but they might get you the interview.
Read more: Firefighter Cover Letter Sample
Plus, a great cover letter that matches your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here. Here's what it may look like:
See more cover letter templates and start writing.
Still not committed to the life of ladders? Thinking about work as a police officer or security guard? See our other guides:
- Correctional Officer Resume
- Police Officer Resume
- Security Guard Resume
- Criminal Justice Resume
- 911 Dispatcher Resume
- EMT/Paramedic Resume
- Peace Corps Resume
- Lifeguard Resume
- Personal Trainer Resume
- All Resume Examples
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