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Global Insights Network

How to become a firefighter in ma

Author

Rachel Acosta

Updated on March 09, 2026

How long does it take to become a firefighter in Massachusetts?

Once you have been hired as a firefighter, you would take a 12 week training course at the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy.

How much do firefighters make ma?

The average salary for a firefighter in Massachusetts is around $59,330 per year.

What are the requirements to be a firefighter in Massachusetts?

How to Become a Firefighter in Massachusetts
  • 18 or older with some departments at 21 years old.
  • Proof of residency and a state driver’s license.
  • High school education or higher.
  • Physically fit.
  • EMT training essential.

Do you have to be a paramedic to be a firefighter in Massachusetts?

Applicants must possess MA certification as an EMTParamedic with a minimum of one year of job-related experience. If the successful applicant has not completed the MA Fire Academy’s Career Firefighter Recruit Training Program, he/she will be enrolled post-hire.

Is there an age limit for firefighters in Massachusetts?

Upper Age Limit: 31 years old or younger as of the original examination date.

What disqualifies you from being a firefighter?

Typically, a firefighter background check will include a criminal history search, an employment verification check, and a medicine test. Crimes that usually lead to disqualification for fire department recruits include arson, any kind of theft, any kind of assault or battery, and violent crimes.

Is firefighter a good career?

A firefighter career is both demanding and rewarding. The work is hard and often dangerous, but it’s extremely satisfying to save lives and help others in need. Because of the unique requirements of the career, a firefighter job requires a combination of preparation and research.

Is becoming a firefighter worth it?

Firefighting is an incredibly rewarding job that’s truly worth it if you’re willing to put in the time and effort. Though you will have to give up some much-valued time with your friends and family and put yourself at risk in dangerous situations, being a firefighter has plenty of benefits.

Why are firefighters paid so little?

Firefighters in California tend to make up for their relatively low hourly wages by working overtime in addition to their already long work-week. It is almost always cheaper for employers to hire back off-duty firefighters on overtime than hiring additional personnel.

Are firefighters happy?

Firefighters are one of the happiest careers in the United States. As it turns out, firefighters rate their career happiness 3.8 out of 5 stars which puts them in the top 16% of careers.

How long is firefighting training?

The average fire academy program takes about 12 to 14 weeks to complete a total of 600 hours of training. While most programs want all students to enter at the same time, some have staggered entrance options. Generally, you’ll need to commit anywhere from 40 to 48 hours weekly to undergo the program.

Is 28 too old to become a firefighter?

You can become a professional firefighter after 30, 40, or even 50 at some fire departments. There are departments that have upper age limits between 28 and 40, while others have no upper age requirements for firefighters. There are usually no upper age limits to be a volunteer firefighter.

Do you have to sleep at Fire Academy?

Students will need to be awake, dressed, fed, at the academy, gear ready and prepared and ready to go by that time. I had to wake up at 4:00 am in order to make it to the academy on time and be prepared each day. Being up so early for fire academy takes discipline, but so does being dressed for fire academy.

How long does it take to get hired as a firefighter?

Once a fire department is hiring, the entire process should take no more than 6 weeks. Recruitment training will vary based on the department and municipal regulations, but it should take no more than 6 months.