What Does a Firefighter Do? – Tasks and Work Environment
A firefighter works to save lives, protect property, and prevent accidents through efforts in fires, traffic collisions, and other emergency situations. The role includes not only firefighting and rescue operations but also preventive work, public education, training exercises, and maintenance of equipment. The work environment is often physically demanding and can involve working in dangerous and stressful situations, outdoors and indoors, regardless of weather conditions. Firefighters work in shifts, which include night work, weekends, and standby duties. Good physical and mental health are essential to meet the demands of the profession.
Salary Development Over Time
The salary for firefighters has shown a steady but positive development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 34 900 SEK, increasing to 36 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 37 400 SEK in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 7.2% over the three-year period. This salary growth reflects an increased focus on work environment and safety, while demand for trained firefighters has remained stable. Regional and employer differences may occur, but the profession has generally experienced a consistent salary progression, partly due to union negotiations and index-linked agreements within the public sector.
Firefighter Salary – Complete Overview
- Average salary: 37 400 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 29,800 SEK/month (female, public sector, secondary education)
- Highest salary: 41,300 SEK/month (male, private sector)
- Hourly wage: 225 SEK/hour
- Gender differences: Men earn 37 600 SEK, women 34 900 SEK (93 % of men's salary)
- Regional differences: Salary variation occurs, mainly between larger and smaller municipalities and depending on employment type
Education and Qualifications
To work as a firefighter, a combination of formal education, practical training, and good physical ability is required. The most common route is the two-year post-secondary program Fire Safety and Rescue (SMO), but there are other pathways depending on employer and region. In addition to education, requirements include swimming proficiency, a driver’s license, and good health.
- Fire Safety and Rescue (SMO): Post-secondary education, 2 years
- Additional internal training: Often provided by the employer
- Internship/Trainee: Included in SMO and often during employment
- Prerequisites: High school diploma, swimming skills, B-driver’s license
- Certifications: Examples include CPR, smoke diving, C-driver’s license, which can be advantageous
Firefighters regularly participate in community outreach and educate school classes, companies, and individuals about fire safety and accident prevention. The pedagogical role is becoming increasingly important in modern rescue work.
Common Benefits and Compensation
Firefighters are often covered by collective agreements that provide benefits such as extra vacation days, overtime pay for unsociable hours, wellness allowances, and opportunities for further training. In addition to base salary, compensation for on-call, overtime, and special operations may apply. In some cases, pension benefits and insurance are provided through the employer.
Competition and Challenges
The labor market for firefighters is characterized by relatively high competition for permanent positions, especially in larger cities where many apply for the job. At the same time, there is a continuous need for substitutes and part-time firefighters, particularly in smaller municipalities. Challenges in the profession mainly involve physical and mental strains, shift work, and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure. Recruitment is also affected by requirements for physical capacity and specific certifications, which can limit the number of applicants.
Tips for Aspiring Firefighters
To succeed as a firefighter, it’s good to combine physical endurance with mental strength and a strong desire to help others. Regular training and maintaining good shape increase chances of passing recruitment tests, while stress tolerance and teamwork skills are crucial during operations. Demonstrating initiative and flexibility in unexpected situations is also important, as is developing communication skills to inform and calm people in crises. It’s advantageous to obtain a driver’s license early and consider additional certifications, as well as engaging in volunteer rescue or similar activities to gain insight into the profession. The ability to work systematically and stay calm under pressure are valuable qualities for those wanting to make a difference as a firefighter.
Key Facts About Firefighters
- Education level: Post-secondary education (SMO, 2 years)
- Work environment: Shift work, physically and mentally demanding
- Employment type: Full-time, part-time, and on-call
- Demand: 191 available jobs within the profession (May 2024)
- Gender distribution: Differences in salary and representation between men and women
Career Paths and Future Outlook
After three to five years as a firefighter, there are opportunities to specialize in areas such as smoke diving, instructor roles, rescue management, or work in fire prevention. Some choose to further qualify as strength leaders, incident commanders, or advance to managerial roles within the fire service. The Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts for the firefighter profession do not provide an exact assessment of future job opportunities, but there is a steady need for personnel, especially in smaller municipalities and part-time fire brigades. As of May 2024, there were 191 available jobs, indicating some mobility but also competition for permanent positions. Specialization and further education can improve career prospects over time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Firefighters
- What does a Firefighter earn?
- The average salary for a firefighter is 37 400 SEK/month.
- What education is required to become a firefighter?
- The most common education is Fire Safety and Rescue (SMO), a two-year post-secondary program.
- What are the working hours for firefighters?
- Firefighters typically work in shifts, including nights and weekends, and have standby and on-call duties.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn approximately 93 % of what men do within the profession.
- What is the job market like for firefighters?
- There are 191 available jobs within the profession (May 2024), but competition for permanent positions is high.
- What personal qualities are important for a firefighter?
- Physical endurance, stress tolerance, teamwork skills, and good communication are important qualities.
