Fire Department Jobs in India play a crucial role in public safety, emergency response, disaster management, and rescue operations. These jobs require courage, discipline, physical fitness, and a deep commitment to saving lives. Whether you are looking to become a Firefighter, Fire Officer, Station Officer, Driver-cum-Operator, or work in fire safety engineering, the fire services sector offers many opportunities for long-term growth.
This blog explains eligibility, job roles, salary, work hours, career path, recruitment process, and training requirements in Fire Department Jobs across India. If you are planning to join fire services, this guide will help you understand the complete journey.
What Are Fire Department Jobs in India?
Fire Department Jobs involve responding to emergencies such as:
- Fire accidents
- Road accidents
- Natural disasters
- Industrial fires
- Chemical hazards
- Building collapses
- Rescue of trapped individuals
The main goal of a fire service worker is to protect life, property, and the environment.
Fire departments operate under:
- State Fire Services
- Municipal Corporations
- Industrial Fire Safety Departments
- Airports
- Ports
- Railways
- Defence Establishments
- Private Fire Safety Companies
Fire Department Job Positions (With Roles & Responsibilities)
Below are some of the major positions and what they do:
1. Firefighter / Fireman
Main Job: Respond to fire emergencies, rescue victims, control fire spread, operate hose and ladders.
Skills Needed: Physical fitness, teamwork, courage, mechanical knowledge.
2. Leading Fireman
Supervises a group of firefighters and ensures smooth execution during emergencies and drills.
3. Driver-cum-Pump Operator
Handles fire tenders and water pumps. Ensures all fire engines are functional and available during emergencies.
4. Station Officer
Manages fire stations, training, planning operations, and coordinating rescue units.
5. Sub-Fire Officer
Assists the Station Officer, leads teams during operations, and handles reports and documentation.
6. Fire Safety Officer
Often works in industries, malls, airports, and factories to ensure compliance with fire safety rules.
7. Fire Engineer
Handles design of fire safety systems, sprinklers, hydrants, smoke alarms, hazard analysis, and audits.
Eligibility Criteria for Fire Department Jobs
Educational Qualification
Different posts require different qualifications:
| Post | Qualification Required |
|---|---|
| Fireman | 10th / 12th Pass |
| Driver-cum-Operator | 10th Pass + Driving License (Heavy Vehicle) |
| Leading Fireman | 12th Pass + Fire Training |
| Sub-Fire Officer | Diploma in Fire Safety / Fire Engineering |
| Station Officer | Graduation + Fire Engineering |
| Fire Safety Officer | Diploma/Degree in Fire & Safety |
| Fire Engineer | B.Tech in Fire Engineering / Safety Engineering |
Age Limit for Fire Service Jobs
| Category | Age Limit |
|---|---|
| General | 18–27 years |
| OBC | 18–30 years |
| SC/ST | 18–32 years |
| Ex-Servicemen | As per government rules |
Physical Fitness Requirements
To join fire services, physical strength and stamina are very important.
For Men:
- Height: 165 cm (varies by state)
- Chest: 81–86 cm
- Running: 1 km in 6 minutes
- Ladder Climbing Test
- Hose Running Test
For Women:
Some states allow female candidates with similar but slightly adjusted standards.
Fire Department Salary in India
Salary varies according to state government, location, and experience. Below is an average estimate:
| Position | Monthly Salary (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Fireman | ₹25,000 – ₹45,000 |
| Leading Fireman | ₹32,000 – ₹50,000 |
| Driver-cum-Operator | ₹30,000 – ₹48,000 |
| Sub-Fire Officer | ₹40,000 – ₹60,000 |
| Station Officer | ₹50,000 – ₹70,000 |
| Fire Safety Officer | ₹35,000 – ₹60,000 |
| Fire Engineer | ₹60,000 – ₹1,00,000 |
Fire Department Jobs salary increases with promotions, experience, and special allowances.
Work Time & Shift Details
Firefighters work in shifts due to 24×7 emergency operations.
Typical Working Hours:
- 8-hour shifts or 24-hour rotational shifts depending on department
- Emergency duty anytime
- Quick response required within minutes
Fire services require dedication because emergencies can arise at any moment.
Career Growth in Fire Department Jobs
The career ladder in the fire department looks like this:
- Fireman
- Leading Fireman
- Driver-Operator
- Sub-Fire Officer
- Station Officer
- Assistant Divisional Officer
- Divisional Fire Officer
- Chief Fire Officer
With experience, training, and exams, promotions are steady and rewarding.
How to Apply for Fire Department Jobs in India?
You can apply through:
- State Fire Service recruitment portals
- Municipal Corporation job notifications
- Airport Authority (AAI) recruitment
- Industrial companies
- UPSC/State PSC exams (for engineering and officer posts)
Selection Process Usually Includes:
- Written Exam
- Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
- Skill Test (Pump operation, ladder climbing, hose running)
- Document Verification
- Medical Test
Fire & Safety Courses That Help in Getting Jobs
Many candidates take fire training courses before applying.
Popular Courses:
- Diploma in Fire and Safety
- Certificate in Fireman Training
- B.Tech in Fire and Safety Engineering
- Industrial Safety Training
- Disaster Management Training
These programs increase chances of selection in both government and private sectors.
Industries That Hire Fire & Safety Professionals
Fire safety experts are needed in:
- Oil & gas companies
- Airports and airlines
- Metro rail corporations
- Malls
- Factories
- Chemical plants
- Hotels
- Railways
- Construction companies
- Power plants
Why Fire Department Jobs Are a Strong Career Choice
Fire department jobs are respected, stable, and service-oriented careers. They offer:
- Government job security
- Housing & medical benefits
- Pension
- Respect in society
- Growth opportunities
- Chance to save lives
This field is ideal for individuals who want to serve society with courage and responsibility.