Fire Science Technology
Offerings for Fire Science Technology:| AAS Degree | Basic Structural Certificate | Continuing Education Certificate |
| This degree is designed to prepare you for employment in a specific career. In addition to general education requirements, specific technical or occupational curriculum is required for each program. More |
Need to freshen up your skills? A certificate is a great option for those who want to obtain a new skill or advance in their current field. More |
Individuals interested in a non-credit option should consider our volunteer firefighting certificate available through the Continuing Education division. |
Offerings Available At:
- CyFair
- Kingwood
- Montgomery
The Fire Science Technology Program Has Additional Entrance Requirements, Please Read Further.
Salary:
Median annual earnings of fire fighters were $41,190 in May 2006. The middle 50 percent earned between $29,550 and $54,120. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $20,660, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $66,140. Median annual earnings were $41,600 in local government, $41,070 in the Federal Government, and $37,000 in State governments.
Median annual earnings of first-line supervisors/managers of fire fighting and prevention workers were $62,900 in May 2006. The middle 50 percent earned between $50,180 and $79,060. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $36,820, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $97,820. First-line supervisors/managers of fire fighting and prevention workers employed in local government earned a median of about $64,070 a year.
Median annual earnings of fire inspectors and investigators were $48,050 in May 2006. The middle 50 percent earned between $36,960 and $61,160 a year. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $29,840, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $74,930. Fire inspectors and investigators employed in local government earned a median of about $49,690 a year.
According to the International City-County Management Association, average salaries in 2006 for sworn full-time positions were as follows:
| Minimum Annual Base Salary | Maximum Annual Base Salary | |
| Fire Chief | $73,435 | $95,271 |
| Deputy Chief | $66,420 | $84,284 |
| Assistant Fire Chief | $61,887 | $78,914 |
| Battalion Chief | $62,199 | $78,611 |
| Fire Captain | $51,808 | $62,785 |
| Fire Lieutenant | $47,469 | $56,511 |
| Fire Prevention/Code Inspector | $45,951 | $58,349 |
| Engineer | $43,232 | $56,045 |
Fire fighters who average more than a certain number of work hours per week are required to be paid overtime. The hours threshold is determined by the department. Fire fighters often earn overtime for working extra shifts to maintain minimum staffing levels or during special emergencies.
Fire fighters receive benefits that usually include medical and liability insurance, vacation and sick leave, and some paid holidays. Almost all fire departments provide protective clothing (helmets, boots, and coats) and breathing apparatus, and many also provide dress uniforms. Fire fighters generally are covered by pension plans, often providing retirement at half pay after 25 years of service or if the individual is disabled in the line of duty.
Job Growth:
Although employment is expected to grow as fast as the average for all jobs, candidates for these positions are expected to face keen competition as these positions are highly attractive and sought after.
For more information please visit our Fire Science Department.
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