Fire Science Degree Programs in Idaho | Firefighter Training

Written by Timothy Levin
Last Updated: Feb 6, 2020

Wherever they work, firefighters provide a crucial service to their communities by responding to fires, medical emergencies, and natural disasters. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a steady increase in opportunities for this fulfilling profession. According to the BLS, employment for firefighters is projected to grow by 5% from 2018-2028, leading to almost 18,000 new jobs.


The expansion of opportunities for firefighters comes as fires and other emergencies continue to pose a problem in the U.S. The BLS notes that firefighters should expect an increase in jobs, even as the pool of volunteer firefighters grows.


Consider entering this growing and satisfying profession by becoming a firefighter in Idaho. This page covers the major aspects of how to become a firefighter in Idaho, including requirements, exams, academic options, and training programs. Below, you can also explore salaries, job growth figures, and useful resources for firefighters in the Gem State.



Firefighter Requirements in Idaho


Firefighter requirements in Idaho vary among different counties, towns, and cities. Unlike some other jobs, there are no national or statewide requirements that all firefighters need to meet. Instead, aspiring firefighters in Idaho should research the hiring process and requirements for the area in which they plan to work.


For example, firefighters looking to work in one of Boise's 17 fire stations must be at least 18 years old, possess a high school diploma or equivalent, and hold a valid driver's license. Additionally, candidates must be certified emergency medical technicians (EMT) through a state agency or through the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians. They must complete a written exam, an oral interview, a medical test, and a fitness exam.


Boise also boasts firefighter/paramedic positions. Candidates for these positions must satisfy all firefighter requirements and earn certifications in paramedic, CPR, cardiac life support, and pediatric advanced life support.


The City of Pocatello requires candidates to pass a civil service exam, and applicants with emergency medical services certification earn additional points on their exam. Additionally, candidates must pass a combat test to demonstrate their physical fitness. Applicants need to pass a background check, drug screen, and medical exam.


Becoming a Firefighter in Idaho: Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the specific training for Idaho?

    There is no standard training for all firefighters in Idaho. Once hired or before applying, firefighters typically need to complete training in firefighter skills and emergency medical services.

  • Is EMT/paramedic/other training or certification required?

    Firefighter requirements in Idaho often include some kind of emergency medical training, either before applying for a position or during a probationary period. Some departments may require candidates to earn paramedic or firefighter 1 certification.

  • What is the test like for firefighters in Idaho?

    Candidates often need to pass an oral and a written exam. In departments that require firefighter 1 training and certification, candidates must pass exams based on National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards.

  • What kind of shape should I be in to be a firefighter?

    Firefighters must be in great physical shape to do their jobs effectively, and fire departments administer fitness exams to new recruits. Candidates often need to perform a series of demanding tasks, such as stair climbs, in full gear.

  • What if I only want to fight wildfires in Idaho?

    Wildland firefighters often work seasonally, typically during the summer months when forest fires increase. In Idaho, firefighters looking to battle wildfires may opt to join a crew such as the Boise Hotshot Crew or Idaho City Hotshot Crew.

  • How long does it take to become a firefighter in Idaho?

    The time it takes to become a firefighter in Idaho varies among departments. Some departments require preliminary training and certifications, while others hire firefighters without prior training. Additionally, some departments enforce a one-year probationary period.

Firefighter Courses and Programs in Idaho


Aspiring firefighters can choose from a variety of schools and firefighter courses in Idaho. Training and educational requirements vary among Idaho's fire departments, and many programs can prepare you for a fruitful career in firefighting. Firefighters need to work quickly and efficiently in high-pressure situations, and they benefit from extensive training and coursework.


Though postsecondary education is not typically a requirement for becoming a firefighter in Idaho, earning a degree or a certificate in a field like fire science may help you impress employers and secure a firefighting position. Read on to learn about some firefighter schools in Idaho.

College of Eastern Idaho

Program Name Fire Service Technology Degree
Program Description The Idaho Fire Service Technology (FST) Program partners with fire departments and fire districts to train firefighters according to NFPA standards. The program holds accreditation from the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress. Since each fire department establishes its own training standards, FST offers 200 courses that satisfy training requirements for over 240 fire departments.

Idaho State University

Program Name Associate of Science in Fire Services Administration
Program Description Idaho State University offers associate and bachelor's degrees in fire service administration. The degrees prepare students for leadership positions in emergency services. Students complete 38 credits of general education courses along with fire service-specific classes on topics such as fire behavior and combustion, building construction, and fire protection systems.

College of Western Idaho

Program Name Fire Service Technology - Basic Technical Certificate
Program Description This program prepares students for jobs as career and volunteer firefighters. Students explore topics such as ethical issues, fire department organization, tactical approaches, and national firefighting standards. They also learn to pass written and practical firefighter examinations. Students take part in hands-on demonstrations and physical fitness training.

Fire Science Colleges in Idaho

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Degree Level
School Type
Environment

Firefighter Salaries and Job Growth in Idaho


As of May 2018, just over 1,500 firefighters were working in Idaho. Projections Central expects that opportunities for firefighters in the state will grow 10.7% from 2018-2028, more than double the job growth rate for firefighters nationally.


Firefighter salaries vary across the U.S., and firefighters in Idaho earn a median annual salary of $40,490, below the national median salary for firefighters, which sits at $49,620. The highest-paid 10% of firefighters in Idaho earn $64,760 or more, while the bottom 10% of earners take home $21,190 or less.


Aspiring firefighters should keep in mind that salary expectations in Idaho depend on numerous factors, including geographic location. For example, firefighters in Boise earn an annual income of $50,800, well above the firefighter salary in Idaho. As the table below illustrates, professional experience also affects firefighter salaries.


National Average Salaries for Firefighters

0-12 Months

Entry Level

$40,657
1-4 Years

Early Career

$41,666
5-9 Years

Mid-Career

$48,760
10-19 Years

Experienced

$56,191

Source: PayScale

Firefighter Resources in Idaho


Aspiring and experienced firefighters alike can benefit immensely from professional resources and organizations in the field. Firefighters' unions, which operate at the local, state, and national levels, help firefighters organize, fight for fairer pay, and advocate for legislation.


Additionally, professional organizations provide a great way to stay apprised on trends in firefighting and gain additional skills. NFPA, for instance, publishes data, news, and research on topics like firefighter injuries, fire causes, and fire protection systems. The International Association of Fire Fighters offers online learning opportunities, Fire Fighter Quarterly Magazine, and a daily news outlet.


Boise Fire Fighters Local 149

This union represents firefighter employees in Boise's 17 fire stations. The organization helps with employee negotiations on behalf of Boise's firefighters. It also hosts events, maintains charitable funds, and offers useful links and resources.

International Association of Fire Fighters

This labor union represents over 318,000 professional firefighters and paramedics across the U.S. and Canada. The union offers a multitude of resources and services, including scholarships, a legal department, pension resources, and continuing education opportunities.

Professional Fire Fighters of Idaho

PFFI is Idaho's IAFF affiliate organization. It offers resources on retirement, benefits, scholarships, and local political issues. It also boasts a hazmat training program and an annual convention.

Idaho Fire Chiefs Association

IFCA aims to improve Idaho's emergency services by supporting fire and emergency medical services chiefs. The association boasts an annual conference, grant programs, and a newsletter.

National Fire Protection Association

As a nonprofit organization, NFPA dedicates its work to reducing the overall effect of fire, electrical, and related emergencies. The association creates codes and standards, including standards for being a firefighter. It also offers certification and training programs.