Mississippi,MS: How to Become a Firefighter

Featured Programs and Schools


Mississippi firefighters work hard day in and day out to prevent and combat fires. With its 414 fire departments always ready to fight fire, the residents of Mississippi can sleep peacefully at night. If you are passionate about working in this field, then you ought to know the following details regarding how to become a firefighter in Mississippi.

Education Required To Be A Firefighter In Mississippi

To become a fire fighter in Mississippi, no formal education is required and a high school diploma is sufficient. However, it will certainly benefit an applicant if they enroll in two years’ associate degree program in fire science or a related field. It is mandatory to acquire 16-week firefighter 1 module training from the fire academy.

Duties of a Firefighter in Mississippi

The main duties of a firefighter are:

  • Respond to fire alarms.
  • Conduct search & rescue operations.
  • Respond to medical emergencies.
  • Rescue people in car, ship, or other vehicle related accidents.
  • Participate in buildings inspection and hydrants.
  • Respond to situations involving hazardous materials.
  • Participate in fire prevention and training.

Requirements to Become a Firefighter in Mississippi

In order to apply for this job, you will have to meet the following requirements:

  • Residence requirements: You must show proof of US citizenship
  • Educational qualifications: You should hold a high school diploma or a GED
  • Age Bracket: You must be 18 years old
  • Legal Records: You must have a clean criminal history
  • License Requirements: You must have a valid driver’s license

How Long Does It Take to Become a Firefighter in Mississippi?

The hiring procedure is pretty lengthy. The first step involves clearing the written exam, which is followed by a physical exam. Once you have passed these exams, you will be invited for a panel interview, where the interviewers will assess your aptitude, knowledge, and passion for this job. After completing this stage, you will have to undergo a polygraph test, a psychological test, drug screening, and a background check. After clearing these stages, you will be finally hired for the job, depending on the availability of positions.

How Much Does a Firefighter Make in Mississippi?

The annual mean wage of firefighters in Mississippi was $32,870 in 2021 as per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Career Outlook for Firefighters in Mississippi

According to O*Net Online, the firefighting profession is expected to see a growth in Mississippi; it is expected that the employment of firefighters will grow by 11% in Mississippi from 2020 to 2030. This growth rate will create 320 more jobs annually in the state.

You May Also Like

How to Become a Firefighter in Missouri
How to Become a Firefighter in Montana
How to Become a Firefighter in Nebraska