Firefighters

Job Zone

Job Zone 1-2: Very Little to Some Preparation Needed

Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not.

Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

Rescue survivors from burning buildings, accident sites, and water hazards.87
Administer first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation to injured persons or provide emergency medical care such as basic or advanced life support.84
Dress with equipment such as fire-resistant clothing and breathing apparatus.84
Move toward the source of a fire, using knowledge of types of fires, construction design, building materials, and physical layout of properties.83
Drive and operate fire fighting vehicles and equipment.83
Respond to fire alarms and other calls for assistance, such as automobile and industrial accidents.82
Search to locate fire survivors.82
Operate pumps connected to high-pressure hoses.81
Maintain contact with fire dispatchers at all times to notify them of the need for additional firefighters and supplies, or to detail any difficulties encountered.81
Extinguish flames and embers to suppress fires, using shovels or engine- or hand-driven water or chemical pumps.81
Maintain knowledge of current firefighting practices by participating in drills and by attending seminars, conventions, and conferences.80
Select and attach hose nozzles, depending on fire type, and direct streams of water or chemicals onto fires.79

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Collaborate with other firefighters as a member of a firefighting crew.78
Train new employees to control and suppress fires.78
Position and climb ladders to gain access to upper levels of buildings, or to rescue individuals from burning structures.78
Create openings in buildings for ventilation or entrance, using axes, chisels, crowbars, electric saws, or core cutters.78
Participate in fire drills and demonstrations of fire fighting techniques.78
Assess fires and situations and report conditions to superiors to receive instructions, using two-way radios.78
Inspect fire sites after flames have been extinguished to ensure that there is no further danger.76
Patrol burned areas after fires to locate and eliminate hot spots that may restart fires.76
Take action to contain any hazardous chemicals that could catch fire, leak, or spill.76
Prepare written reports that detail specifics of fire incidents.76
Protect property from water and smoke, using waterproof salvage covers, smoke ejectors, and deodorants.75
Inspect buildings for fire hazards and compliance with fire prevention ordinances, testing and checking smoke alarms and fire suppression equipment as necessary.74
Collaborate with police to respond to accidents, disasters, and arson investigation calls.74
Salvage property by removing broken glass, pumping out water, and ventilating buildings to remove smoke.73
Clean and maintain fire stations and fire fighting equipment and apparatus.72
Inform and educate the public on fire prevention.72
Orient self in relation to fire, using compass and map, and collect supplies and equipment dropped by parachute.72
Participate in physical training activities to maintain a high level of physical fitness.67

Skills

Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.

Coordination72
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Active Learning66
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Active Listening66
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Critical Thinking66
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Judgment and Decision Making63
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Monitoring63
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Service Orientation63
Actively looking for ways to help people.
Speaking63
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Complex Problem Solving53
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Social Perceptiveness53
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Operation and Control50
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Operations Monitoring50
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.

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Reading Comprehension50
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Time Management50
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Learning Strategies47
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Equipment Maintenance44
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Instructing44
Teaching others how to do something.
Systems Analysis44
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Equipment Selection41
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Persuasion41
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
Troubleshooting41
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Writing41
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Negotiation38
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Quality Control Analysis38
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Systems Evaluation38
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Mathematics35
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Management of Material Resources25
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Management of Personnel Resources25
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Repairing25
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Science25
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Management of Financial Resources19
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
Technology Design16
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
Operations Analysis13
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
Programming10
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Installation6
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.

Knowledge

Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.

Public Safety and Security77
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Customer and Personal Service60
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Transportation60
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Medicine and Dentistry59
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Mechanical58
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Communications and Media55
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Education and Training55
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Building and Construction52
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Telecommunications52
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Geography50
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
English Language49
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Administration and Management47
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

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Law and Government45
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Computers and Electronics42
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Personnel and Human Resources41
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Psychology41
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Therapy and Counseling41
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Chemistry34
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Engineering and Technology34
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Mathematics34
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Physics34
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Administrative33
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Design28
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Economics and Accounting28
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Production and Processing23
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Biology20
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Foreign Language18
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
Sociology and Anthropology18
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
History and Archeology16
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Philosophy and Theology14
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
Food Production12
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
Sales and Marketing9
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
Fine Arts4
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

Problem Sensitivity78
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Stamina75
The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
Static Strength75
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
Control Precision72
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Oral Comprehension72
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Oral Expression72
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Trunk Strength72
The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
Arm-Hand Steadiness69
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Deductive Reasoning69
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Far Vision69
The ability to see details at a distance.
Information Ordering69
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
Manual Dexterity69
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.

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Multilimb Coordination69
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
Reaction Time69
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
Inductive Reasoning66
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Near Vision66
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Dynamic Strength63
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
Flexibility of Closure63
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
Speech Clarity63
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Speech Recognition63
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
Spatial Orientation60
The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
Auditory Attention56
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
Depth Perception56
The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
Extent Flexibility56
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Gross Body Coordination56
The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
Written Comprehension56
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Category Flexibility53
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Explosive Strength53
The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
Gross Body Equilibrium53
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
Rate Control53
The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
Response Orientation53
The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
Selective Attention53
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
Visualization53
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Finger Dexterity50
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
Hearing Sensitivity50
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
Perceptual Speed50
The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
Speed of Closure50
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
Time Sharing50
The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
Visual Color Discrimination50
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
Written Expression50
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Fluency of Ideas47
The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
Memorization47
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
Peripheral Vision47
The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
Glare Sensitivity44
The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
Sound Localization44
The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
Speed of Limb Movement44
The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
Originality41
The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
Wrist-Finger Speed41
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
Number Facility38
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
Dynamic Flexibility35
The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Mathematical Reasoning35
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
Night Vision35
The ability to see under low-light conditions.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment84
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems82
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge79
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials78
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events77
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Getting Information76
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings75
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Performing General Physical Activities74
Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates72
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Documenting/Recording Information72
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Assisting and Caring for Others70
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Training and Teaching Others70
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.

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Handling and Moving Objects69
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization66
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards65
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People65
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work65
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public65
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Controlling Machines and Processes62
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment62
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
Developing Objectives and Strategies61
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Processing Information61
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Coaching and Developing Others58
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates57
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others56
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others56
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Thinking Creatively56
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Developing and Building Teams55
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Scheduling Work and Activities53
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others52
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others48
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Analyzing Data or Information46
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships46
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information46
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources41
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Performing Administrative Activities41
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Working with Computers41
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment39
Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
Staffing Organizational Units36
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
Selling or Influencing Others32
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment31
Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.

Work Styles

Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

Self-Control100
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
Stress Tolerance100
A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
Dependability98
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
Cooperation94
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
Adaptability87
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
Integrity85
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
Perseverance83
A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
Self-Confidence77
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
Initiative70
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.
Leadership Orientation64
A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
Attention to Detail63
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
Achievement Orientation61
A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.

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Sincerity56
A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
Tolerance for Ambiguity47
A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
Empathy46
A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feelings at work.
Optimism46
A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.
Social Orientation44
A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
Humility38
A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
Cautiousness36
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
Intellectual Curiosity25
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
Innovation15
A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.

Interests (RIASEC)

Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.

Realistic92
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Conventional41
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Social40
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.
Enterprising34
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
Investigative32
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Artistic5
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

Health and Safety of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility73%
- High responsibility18%
Physical Proximity
- Very close (near touching)62%
- Moderately close (at arm's length)38%
Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Very important42%
Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
- Extremely important57%
- Very important22%
- Important16%
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Extremely important39%
- Very important47%
- Important14%
Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility34%
- High responsibility54%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
- Very important19%
- Important24%
Freedom to Make Decisions
- A lot of freedom21%
- Some freedom72%
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Very important results48%
- Important results29%
- Moderate results11%
- Minor results12%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
- Every day33%
- Once a week or more but not every day44%
- Once a month or more but not every week22%
Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Every day29%
- Once a week or more but not every day44%
- Once a month or more but not every week28%
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Every day40%
- Once a week or more but not every day26%
- Once a month or more but not every week25%

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Contact With Others
- Constant contact with others38%
- Contact with others most of the time32%
- Occasional contact with others21%
Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
- Some freedom67%
- Limited freedom24%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
- Every day33%
- Once a week or more but not every day25%
- Once a month or more but not every week34%
E-Mail
- Every day40%
- Once a week or more but not every day14%
- Once a month or more but not every week39%
Consequence of Error
- Extremely serious49%
- Very serious26%
- Not serious at all24%
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Every day32%
- Once a week or more but not every day19%
- Once a month or more but not every week39%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
- Every day30%
- Once a week or more but not every day22%
- Once a month or more but not every week33%
- Once a year or more but not every month14%
Exposed to Contaminants
- Every day27%
- Once a week or more but not every day24%
- Once a month or more but not every week32%
Frequency of Decision Making
- Every day31%
- Once a week or more but not every day16%
- Once a month or more but not every week35%
- Once a year or more but not every month18%
Spend Time Standing
- More than half the time50%
- About half the time41%
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection
- Every day34%
- Once a week or more but not every day15%
- Once a month or more but not every week35%
Importance of Repeating Same Tasks
- Extremely important28%
- Very important19%
- Important30%
- Fairly important24%
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Continually or almost continually14%
- More than half the time35%
- About half the time38%
- Less than half the time13%
Telephone Conversations
- Once a week or more but not every day43%
- Once a month or more but not every week44%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Every day33%
- Once a month or more but not every week32%
- Once a year or more but not every month29%
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
- Every day27%
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
- Once a month or more but not every week34%
- Once a year or more but not every month26%
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
- Every day27%
- Once a month or more but not every week46%
- Once a year or more but not every month21%
Spend Time Walking or Running
- More than half the time47%
- About half the time28%
- Less than half the time19%
Time Pressure
- Every day22%
- Once a week or more but not every day16%
- Once a month or more but not every week39%
- Once a year or more but not every month21%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
- Every day28%
- Once a month or more but not every week35%
- Once a year or more but not every month32%
Exposed to High Places
- Every day26%
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
- Once a month or more but not every week20%
Outdoors, Under Cover
- Every day14%
- Once a week or more but not every day30%
- Once a month or more but not every week23%
- Once a year or more but not every month31%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
- Every day18%
- Once a month or more but not every week43%
- Once a year or more but not every month30%
Conflict Situations
- Every day11%
- Once a week or more but not every day25%
- Once a year or more but not every month29%
Exposed to Disease or Infections
- Every day25%
- Once a month or more but not every week30%
- Once a year or more but not every month32%
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Every day19%
- Once a week or more but not every day14%
- Once a month or more but not every week31%
- Once a year or more but not every month21%
- Never14%
Written Letters and Memos
- Every day18%
- Once a week or more but not every day16%
- Once a month or more but not every week28%
- Once a year or more but not every month16%
- Never22%
Level of Competition
- Extremely competitive17%
- Highly competitive12%
- Moderately competitive27%
- Slightly competitive27%
- Not at all competitive17%
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
- Once a month or more but not every week30%
- Once a year or more but not every month48%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Every day23%
- Once a month or more but not every week30%
- Once a year or more but not every month25%
- Never20%
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- More than half the time22%
- About half the time23%
- Less than half the time50%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
- More than half the time16%
- About half the time37%
- Less than half the time41%
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Extremely important14%
- Very important19%
- Important14%
- Fairly important39%
- Not important at all13%
Public Speaking
- Every day14%
- Once a month or more but not every week39%
- Once a year or more but not every month32%
- Never15%
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
- Once a month or more but not every week37%
- Once a year or more but not every month32%
- Never16%
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
- Once a month or more but not every week21%
- Once a year or more but not every month51%
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
- Continually or almost continually16%
- Less than half the time65%
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
- About half the time35%
- Less than half the time58%
Work Schedules
- Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)58%
- Regular (established routine, set schedule)37%
Duration of Typical Work Week
- More than 40 hours31%
- Less than 40 hours69%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- About half the time26%
- Less than half the time60%
Spend Time Sitting
- About half the time20%
- Less than half the time77%
Degree of Automation
- Moderately automated31%
- Slightly automated26%
- Not at all automated32%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
- Once a week or more but not every day14%
- Once a year or more but not every month42%
- Never36%
Exposed to Radiation
- Never83%

Typical Education Levels Reported

Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.

High school diploma or equivalent
Post-secondary certificate
Less than high school diploma

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

Data base user interface and query software
Affiliated Computer Services ACS FIREHOUSE, Fire incident reporting systems, Microsoft Access
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Electronic mail software
Email software, Microsoft Outlook
Office suite software
Corel WordPerfect Office Suite, Microsoft Office software
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Geographic information system
Geographic information system GIS software
Operating system software
Microsoft Windows
Word processing software
Microsoft Word
Analytical or scientific software
Plume modeling software
Internet browser software
Web browser software
Project management software
Incident command system ICS software

Professional Associations

Organizations related to this occupation, such as industry and licensing bodies.

Related Occupations

Occupations that call for similar work and worker requirements.

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

Rescue people from hazardous situations.
Implement advanced life support techniques.
Provide first aid or rescue assistance in emergencies.
Select tools, equipment, or technologies for use in operations or projects.
Treat medical emergencies.
Operate firefighting equipment.
Locate fires or fire danger areas.
Respond to emergencies to provide assistance.
Request emergency personnel.
Attend training to learn new skills or update knowledge.
Maintain professional knowledge or certifications.
Prepare hoses or water supplies to fight fires.

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Assess characteristics of fires.
Communicate with other workers to coordinate activities.
Demonstrate activity techniques or equipment use.
Relay information about incidents or emergencies to personnel using phones or two-way radios.
Train personnel on proper operational procedures.
Protect property from fire or water damage.
Examine debris to obtain information about causes of fires.
Patrol natural areas to ensure safety or enforce regulations.
Prepare investigation or incident reports.
Collaborate with law enforcement or security agencies to respond to incidents.
Inspect equipment to ensure safety or proper functioning.
Inspect facilities to ensure compliance with fire regulations.
Educate the public about fire safety or prevention.
Maintain fire fighting tools or equipment.
Participate in physical training to maintain fitness.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

Fire Apparatus Engineer
Fire Engineer
Fire Fighter
Fire Fighter Diver
Fire Fighter Paramedic
Fire Fighter Specialist Wildland
Fire Fighter, Crash, Fire
Fire Medic
Fire Suppression Technician
Wildland Fire Fighter Specialist

This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology