A firefighter’s salary in Canada ranges from around $54,000 per annum at entry level to approximately $118,000 in 2023. Mid-range salaries are in the region of $95,000 per annum. This range covers firefighter apprentices through to firefighter inspectors.
What Is A Firefighter’s Salary In Canada By Province?
The best government statistics for comparing wages by province are presented as hourly pay rates. This applies to all occupations, including those where pay is based on an annual salary.
Low and high wage rates are provided along with the average median wage; the median is the middle point of the data range when all wages are listed in numerical order.
| Firefighter's Hourly Wages By Province (NOC 42101) | |||
| Province | Low ($ Hr) | Median ($ Hr) | High ($ Hr) |
| Canada | 25.57 | 45.00 | 56.00 |
| Alberta | 33.85 | 49.00 | 56.25 |
| British Columbia | 33.84 | 46.21 | 57.17 |
| Manitoba | 22.00 | 41.27 | 55.00 |
| New Brunswick | 24.00 | 33.65 | 47.00 |
| Newfoundland | 24.21 | 37.66 | 51.28 |
| Northwest Territories | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Nova Scotia | 28.05 | 36.17 | 44.87 |
| Nunavut | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Ontario | 30.45 | 47.62 | 57.23 |
| Prince Edward Island | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Quebec | 22.00 | 38.46 | 48.08 |
| Saskatchewan | 30.33 | 40.06 | 55.67 |
| Yukon Territory | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| This information has been compiled from several sources, including data from Statistics Canada and the Labour Force Survey. As of May 2023 this is the most recent published data, gathered from prior years surveys. | |||
Which Province Has The Highest Firefighter’s Salary In Canada?
The highest firefighter’s salary in Canada is found in Alberta, followed by Ontario and British Columbia.
Salaries in Alberta are typically higher than in other provinces in Canada. This applies across all job sectors, but the most significant differences are seen in occupations related to the oil and gas industry.
At the other end of the scale, the lowest firefighter salaries in Canada are found in the maritime province, where mid-range salaries are around 15-25% less than national averages. However, the cost of living here is lower than in many regions of Canada, so this offsets the wages.
Are Firefighters In Demand In Canada?
According to government projections, the three-year prospects for firefighters range from “moderate” to “very good,” with the best prospects in Yukon, Alberta and Quebec. The job market is pretty balanced, which is expected to continue for the foreseeable future.
However, firefighting is a very competitive sector in Canada. If you are starting in the profession, you may compete with thousands of other applicants.
There is also a lot you can do to improve your chances of being taken on as a trainee firefighter, including:
- Work as a volunteer firefighter
- Get involved in the community
- Improve qualifications (degree in a fire-related area)
- Undertake specialized training (such as ice water rescue)
- Get additional medical training (e.g. EMR)
A firefighter’s salary in Canada in 2023 is expected to be around 4% higher than a firefighter’s salary in Canada in 2022.
What Is An NOC Code In Canada?
National Occupational Classification Codes (or NOC Codes) are numbers used to categorize jobs in Canada. All occupations are numbered based on the training, education, experience and responsibilities required to perform the job. In 2022 a new system of numbers was introduced whereby the previous 4-digit NOC codes were replaced with new 5-digit codes.
What Is The NOC Code For A Firefighter In Canada?
The current NOC code for firefighters in Canada is 42101 (note that under the old system, the NOC code was 4312). This NOC code covers all jobs with the following names:
- Airport firefighter
- Fire captain
- Firefighter
- Firefighter lieutenant
- Industrial firefighter
- Shipboard firefighter
Can An Immigrant Be A Firefighter In Canada?
If you qualified as a firefighter overseas, you might be able to work in Canada without further training. However, first, you should have your qualifications assessed to ensure they meet Canadian standards. You can do this through the ECA page of the Government of Canada website.
However, you should be aware that the immigration classification of “in demand” does not always mean worker shortages for an occupation. For example, firefighters’ current job market is very competitive, and securing Canadian residency won’t guarantee a job.
What Is A Firefighter’s Salary In Ontario?
A firefighter’s salary in Ontario ranges from around $65,000 per annum to $120,000 per annum in 2023. Mid-range salaries are about $100,000 annually, slightly higher than national averages.
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What Is A Firefighter’s Pay Scale In Ontario?
There isn’t one single firefighter pay scale in Ontario. Municipal fire departments employ most firefighters, and the department will negotiate salaries and terms of employment with the municipal government.
What Is The Starting Salary For A Firefighter In Ontario?
A starting salary for a firefighter in Ontario is around $65,000 per annum; this is almost 20% higher than national averages. However, entry-level firefighter salaries in Ontario do vary according to the region as local and municipal governments set pay scales.
The requirements for a trainee firefighter vary from area to area, but you will generally need the following as a minimum:
- Grade 12 Diploma
- Unrestricted Drivers Licence
- Clean Criminal Record
- First Aid Certificate
- Good Vision
- Normal Unaided Hearing
- Fitness Certificate
What Is A Firefighter’s Salary In Toronto?
A firefighter’s salary in Toronto ranges from $86,000 starting salary to $124,000 annually. A mid-range firefighter’s salary in Calgary is approximately $101,000 per annum, similar to other Ontario regions.
However, you should be aware that living costs in Toronto are high, and the city has some of the highest property prices in Canada (and the world).
What Is A Firefighter’s Salary In Ottawa?
A mid-range firefighter’s salary in Ottawa is $96,000 annually, slightly lower than provincial averages. However, starting salaries and salaries at the top ends of pay scales are above average.
Compared to Toronto, a firefighter’s pay in Ottawa is slightly lower, although the overall cost of living is less than in Toronto. Some consumer goods are more expensive in Ottawa, but real estate and rental rates are significantly lower.
Are Firefighters In Demand In Ontario?
Government projections rate the 3-year prospects for firefighters in Ontario as “moderate.” The local or municipal governments employ the majority of firefighters in Ontario, so job opportunities are determined by the budgets of these organizations.
However, firefighter numbers in Ontario have consistently increased in recent years. This is partly due to a growing population and an increased incidence of forest fires, especially in northern Ontario.
What Is A Firefighter’s Salary In Quebec?
A firefighter’s salary in Quebec ranges from $46,200 to $100,968 annually. The mid-range salary in the province is $80,766. This is somewhat lower than national averages but is generally offset by a lower cost of living.
What Is A Firefighter’s Starting Salary In Quebec?
A firefighter’s starting salary in Quebec is around $46,200 per year. This is around 10% lower than the national average for Canada.
What Is A Firefighter’s Salary In Montreal?
A mid-range firefighter’s salary in Montreal is around $80,766, which aligns with the provincial average.
It’s worth noting that the cost of living in Montreal, especially regarding property prices, is lower than in many other Canadian cities. Real estate costs are around half what you’d find in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, allowing for a higher standard of living.
What Is A Firefighter’s Salary In Quebec City?
A mid-range firefighter’s salary in Quebec City is $78,666, lower than provincial averages and lower than salaries in Montreal.
Like Montreal, the cost of living in Quebec City, particularly in terms of property prices, is lower than in many other Canadian cities. Real estate costs are around half those in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, suggesting that you’re likely to enjoy a higher standard of living in Quebec City.
Are Firefighters In Demand In Quebec?
Yes, firefighters are in demand in Quebec. The job prospects here are rated “good,” according to government forecasts covering 2022 to 2024.
Government budgets determine job opportunities, but firefighter numbers in Quebec are increasing partially due to a growing population and an increased incidence of forest fires.
What Is A Firefighter Salary In Alberta?
Some of the highest-paid firefighters in Canada are found in Alberta. A firefighter’s salary in Alberta ranges from around $71,000 starting salary to approximately $118,000 annually. Mid-range salaries are $103,000 annually, close to 10% above national averages.
Generally, firefighter salaries are consistent across the province. However, wages at the mid and top end of the range are higher in the Wood Buffalo/Cold Lake region. This results from the high wages paid to workers associated with the oil industry, especially in Fort McMurray.
| Firefighter's Hourly Wages In Alberta By Region | |||
| Province | Low ($ Hr) | Med ($ Hr) | High ($ Hr) |
| Alberta | 33.85 | 49.00 | 56.25 |
| Athabasca–Grande Prairie–Peace River | 33.85 | 49.00 | 56.25 |
| Calgary | 33.85 | 49.00 | 56.25 |
| Edmonton | 38.64 | 49.00 | 55.29 |
| Lethbridge–Medicine Hat | 33.85 | 49.00 | 56.25 |
| Red Deer | 33.85 | 49.00 | 56.25 |
| Wood Buffalo–Cold Lake | 25.00 | 50.00 | 67.75 |
| This information has been compiled from several sources, including data from Statistics Canada and the Labour Force Survey. As of May 2023 this is the most recent published data, gathered from prior years surveys. | |||
What Is A Firefighter’s Pay Scale In Alberta?
Most firefighters are employed by municipal fire departments, meaning that pay scales are set according to the municipal budget. This means there isn’t a single pay grid for firefighters within the province.
What Is The Starting Salary For A Firefighter In Alberta?
Firefighter salaries in Alberta are some of the highest in Canada, and a starting salary for a firefighter is around $64,000 annually, more than 30% higher than national averages. However, firefighter salaries in Alberta will vary according to the region as local and municipal governments set pay scales.
What Is A Firefighter’s Salary In Calgary?
A firefighter’s salary in Calgary is around $71,000 per annum for a probationer, up to $118,000 annually. A mid-range firefighter’s salary in Calgary is approximately $103,000 per annum, which is higher than most other Canadian cities.
The cost of living in Calgary is also low compared to other major cities such as Vancouver and Toronto. This means a firefighter in Calgary will enjoy a good standard of living.
The Calgary Fire Department is the biggest employer of firefighters in the city, with around 1300 active firefighters.
What Is A Firefighter’s Salary In Edmonton?
Mid-range firefighter’s salaries in Edmonton are around $103,000 annually, which is in line with provincial averages and very similar to pay levels in Calgary.
However, the cost of living in Edmonton is lower than in Calgary and significantly lower than in other major Canadian cities, leading to an excellent standard of living for firefighters.
Are Firefighters In Demand In Alberta?
According to government forecasts, the 3-year prospects for firefighters in Alberta are rated as “good, ” better than almost all other parts of the country. Only the territory of Yukon forecasts stronger demand.
Also, demand in Alberta is expected to be consistently strong across the province; the only exception is the Cold Lake-Buffalo region, where prospects are rated as ‘moderate.”
Where Can I Find More Information About Firefighter Jobs In Alberta?
Alberta Alis is a government organization that provides training and career planning support. In addition, they provide information for different occupations in Alberta, including job postings.
What Is A Firefighter’s Salary In BC?
A firefighter’s salary in BC ranges from around $71,000 per annum starting salary up to $120,000 per annum in 2023. Mid-range salaries are about $97,000 annually, slightly higher than national averages.
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What Is A Firefighter’s Pay Scale In BC?
Municipal fire departments employ most firefighters, and the municipal government sets pay scales in negotiation with the municipal fire department. As a result, there isn’t a single pay grid which applies across the province.
What Is The Starting Salary For A Firefighter In BC?
A starting salary for a firefighter in BC will vary according to region, but they are generally significantly higher than national averages. An entry-level salary for a firefighter in BC is around $64,000 per annum, compared to $54,000 nationally.
What Is A Firefighter’s Salary In Vancouver?
Firefighter salaries in Vancouver are typical of BC, with a mid-range salary of around $97,000 annually. However, the cost of living in Vancouver is very high, especially real estate costs which are amongst the highest in the world.
What Is A Firefighter’s Salary In Victoria?
A mid-range firefighter’s salary in Victoria is around $96,000 per annum, which is in line with provincial averages. Salaries in Victoria are also similar to those of firefighters in Vancouver.
However, the cost of real estate in Victoria is significantly lower than in Vancouver, so a firefighter is likely to have a better standard of living in Victoria.
Are Firefighters In Demand In BC?
Government sources rate the 3-year prospects for firefighters in BC as “moderate,” Overall, the BC job market is seen as stable.
However, local and municipal budgets dictate job opportunities, so there is some variation across the province. The most demand for firefighters is expected for the Kootenay and the Vancouver-Coastal regions.
What Is A Forest Firefighter’s Salary In Canada By Province?
A forest firefighter’s salary in Canada ranges from around $34,000 to $67,000 annually in 2023; mid-range salaries are around $47,000 per annum.
The best government statistics for comparing wages by province are presented as hourly pay rates. This applies to all occupations, including those where pay is based on an annual salary.
Low and high wage rates are provided along with the average median wage; the median is the middle point of the data range when all wages are listed in numerical order.
| Forest Fighfighter's Hourly Wages By Province (NOC 84111) | |||
| Province | Low ($ Hr) | Median ($ Hr) | High ($ Hr) |
| Canada | 16.20 | 22.50 | 32.00 |
| Alberta | 17.50 | 21.83 | 28.00 |
| British Columbia | 18.00 | 24.00 | 38.01 |
| Manitoba | 14.00 | 18.37 | 27.50 |
| New Brunswick | 15.00 | 21.60 | 29.13 |
| Newfoundland | 16.00 | 20.50 | 30.00 |
| Northwest Territories | 22.15 | 29.79 | 34.93 |
| Nova Scotia | 15.00 | 20.50 | 29.00 |
| Nunavut | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Ontario | 16.35 | 22.50 | 30.31 |
| Prince Edward Island | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Quebec | 18.20 | 23.00 | 32.26 |
| Saskatchewan | 13.24 | 16.51 | 25.39 |
| Yukon Territory | 20.00 | 26.00 | 32.00 |
| This information has been compiled from several sources, including data from Statistics Canada and the Labour Force Survey. As of May 2023 this is the most recent published data, gathered from prior years surveys. | |||
Which Province Has The Highest Paid Forest Firefighters In Canada?
Outside of the territories, the highest forest firefighter’s salary in Canada is found in British Columbia, where salaries are around 7% higher than the national average. After BC, the next highest-paid forest firefighters are found in Quebec.
At the other end of the scale, the lowest forest firefighter’s salary in Canada is found in Saskatchewan, where wages are more than 25% less than the national average. However, the cost of living in Saskatchewan is lower than in many regions of Canada, so this helps to offset the wages.
Are Forest Firefighters In Demand In Canada?
The 3-year prospects for forest workers (including forest firefighters) in Canada are rated moderately good overall.
As expected, much of the work is seasonal, and many forestry workers are employed part-time. However, work experience as a forest firefighter can boost your application if you plan a career as a regular firefighter.
What Is The NOC Code For Forest Firefighters In Canada?
The NOC code for forest firefighters in Canada is 84111, and this code covers a range of other forestry worker positions, such as:
- Clearing saw operator – forestry
- Forestry crew worker
- Scarification equipment operator – forestry
- Silviculture worker
- Thinning saw operator
The NOC code for a forest firefighter is different from a regular firefighter. The NOC code for firefighters is 42101.
Can Immigrants Get Forest Firefighter Jobs In Canada?
For an entry-level position, a forest firefighter may only need a high school diploma and possibly some first aid or emergency medical training. Often a short training program is provided for recruits.
This means there aren’t any barriers to immigrants provided you have a high school education that is considered equivalent to the Canadian one. In addition, if you have high levels of fitness and previous firefighting experience, these are also a benefit.
For anyone interested in higher-level positions or progressing in the field, post-secondary qualifications in forestry or a fire science field may be needed. However, this job sector isn’t regulated, and the hiring organization will set minimum requirements.
What Is A Forest Firefighter’s Salary In Ontario?
A forest firefighter’s salary in Ontario ranges from around $34,000 per annum to $64,000 per annum. Mid-range salaries are about $47,000 annually, which is in line with national averages.
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What Is A Forest Firefighter’s Pay Scale In Ontario?
Individual employers set forest firefighter pay scales in Ontario, and these include wildfire management agencies, provincial and federal parks as well as private companies. As a result, there isn’t a single provincial pay scale for forest firefighters.
What Is The Starting Salary For A Forest Firefighter In Ontario?
A starting salary for a firefighter in Ontario is around $34,000 per annum; this is almost 20% higher than national averages. However, entry-level firefighter salaries in Ontario do vary according to the region and the employer.
Are Forest Firefighters In Demand In Ontario?
Demand for forest firefighters in Ontario is seasonal, generally in summer. Demand here isn’t as high as in provinces such as BC and Alberta, but Ontario has seen an increase in forest fires in recent years. This has led to an increased need for forest firefighters.
What Is A Forest Firefighter’s Salary In Quebec?
A forest firefighter’s salary in Quebec ranges from $38,220 to $67,746 annually. The mid-range salary in Quebec is $48,300, which is in line with the mid-range salary of $47,250 in Canada.
What Is A Forest Firefighter’s Starting Salary In Quebec?
A forest firefighter’s starting salary in Quebec is $38,220. This is around 10% higher than the national average.
What Is A Forest Firefighter’s Salary In Montreal?
A forest firefighter’s salary in the Montreal area, focusing on the mid-range, is $58,212. This is significantly higher than the provincial average.
It’s worth noting that the cost of living in Montreal, especially regarding property prices, is lower than in many other Canadian cities. Real estate costs are around half what you’d find in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, allowing for a higher standard of living.
What Is A Forest Firefighter’s Salary In Quebec City?
A mid-range forest firefighter’s salary in the Quebec City region is $51,828. This is slightly higher than provincial averages.
Like Montreal, the cost of living in Quebec City, particularly in terms of property prices, is lower than in many other Canadian cities. Real estate costs are around half those in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, suggesting that you’re likely to enjoy a higher standard of living in Quebec City.
Are Forest Firefighters In Demand In Quebec?
Demand for forest firefighters in Quebec is seasonal, generally in summer. Demand here usually isn’t as high as in provinces such as BC and Alberta, but Quebec has seen an increase in forest fires in recent years, and 2023 was a particularly bad year for fires.
What Is A Forest Firefighter Salary In Alberta?
A forest firefighter’s salary in Alberta ranges from around $37,000 starting salary to approximately $59,000 annually. Mid-range salaries are $46,000 annually, but many forest firefighters are employed on a seasonal basis.
| Firefighter's Hourly Wages In Alberta By Region | |||
| Province | Low ($ Hr) | Med ($ Hr) | High ($ Hr) |
| Alberta | 33.85 | 49.00 | 56.25 |
| Athabasca–Grande Prairie–Peace River | 33.85 | 49.00 | 56.25 |
| Calgary | 33.85 | 49.00 | 56.25 |
| Edmonton | 38.64 | 49.00 | 55.29 |
| Lethbridge–Medicine Hat | 33.85 | 49.00 | 56.25 |
| Red Deer | 33.85 | 49.00 | 56.25 |
| Wood Buffalo–Cold Lake | 25.00 | 50.00 | 67.75 |
| This information has been compiled from several sources, including data from Statistics Canada and the Labour Force Survey. As of May 2023 this is the most recent published data, gathered from prior years surveys. | |||
What Is A Forest Firefighter’s Pay Scale In Alberta?
Forest firefighters are employed by various employers, including Alberta’s wildfire management agency, provincial parks and private companies. The employers set salaries, and there isn’t a single pay grid for forest firefighters within the province.
What Is The Starting Salary For A Forest Firefighter In Alberta?
The starting salary for a forest firefighter in Alberta is about $37,000 per annum, around 9% higher than national averages.
Are Forest Firefighters In Demand In Alberta?
The demand for forest firefighters in Alberta is typically high during the fire season, which occurs between spring and fall. Alberta is known for its vast forested areas, including the boreal forest, which is very susceptible to wildfires.
Alberta has its own wildfire management agency, Alberta Wildfire, responsible for wildfire prevention, preparedness, and suppression.
What Is A Forest Firefighter’s Salary In BC?
A forest firefighter’s salary in BC ranges from around $38,000 per annum starting salary up to $80,000 per annum in 2023. Mid-range salaries are about $50,000 annually, slightly higher than national averages.
What Is A Forest Firefighter’s Pay Scale In BC?
There isn’t a single pay grid which applies to forest firefighters across the province. Instead, individual employers determine salaries, including BC’s forest management agency, provincial parks and private companies.
What Is The Starting Salary For A Forest Firefighter In BC?
Firefighters in British Columbia are some of the country’s highest-paid, and a starting salary for a forest firefighter in BC is around $38,000 per annum, compared to $34,000 nationally.
Are Forest Firefighters In Demand In BC?
Forest firefighters are in high demand in British Columbia during the fire season between spring and fall. BC has extensive forested areas, and wildfires are common over the summer.
As a result, there is a continuous need for skilled forest firefighters to protect communities, infrastructure, and natural resources from wildfires. The BC Wildfire Service is responsible for wildfire prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery.
What Is A Fire Marshal’s Salary In Canada By Province?
A fire marshal’s salary in Canada ranges from around $50,000 to $165,000 annually in 2023; mid-range salaries are around $110,000 annually.
The best government statistics for comparing wages by province are presented as hourly pay rates. This applies to all occupations, including those where pay is based on an annual salary.
Low and high wage rates are provided along with the average median wage; the median is the middle point of the data range when all wages are listed in numerical order.
| Fire Marshal's Hourly Wages By Province (NOC 00011) | |||
| Province | Low ($ Hr) | Median ($ Hr) | High ($ Hr) |
| Canada | 25.50 | 55.03 | 84.62 |
| Alberta | 44.02 | 65.93 | 106.48 |
| British Columbia | 40.87 | 56.83 | 86.81 |
| Manitoba | 29.12 | 45.19 | 76.92 |
| New Brunswick | 33.33 | 45.00 | 73.76 |
| Newfoundland | 24.73 | 48.08 | 76.92 |
| Northwest Territories | 41.51 | 60.32 | 86.00 |
| Nova Scotia | 24.73 | 57.69 | 76.92 |
| Nunavut | 42.25 | 64.22 | 90.09 |
| Ontario | 20.00 | 57.00 | 84.62 |
| Prince Edward Island | 24.73 | 48.08 | 76.92 |
| Quebec | 28.00 | 49.15 | 66.48 |
| Saskatchewan | 27.44 | 40.00 | 56.82 |
| Yukon Territory | 38.13 | 56.17 | 78.13 |
| This information has been compiled from several sources, including data from Statistics Canada and the Labour Force Survey. As of May 2023 this is the most recent published data, gathered from prior years surveys. | |||
Which Province Has The Highest Paid Fire Marshals In Canada?
The highest fire marshal’s salary in Canada is found in Alberta, where salaries are around 20% higher than the national average. After Alberta, the next highest-paid fire marshals are found in the three territories.
At the other end of the scale, Canada’s lowest fire marshal’s salary is in Saskatchewan. However, the cost of living here is lower than in many regions of Canada, so this helps to offset the wages.
What Is The NOC Code For Fire Marshals In Canada?
The NOC code for fire marshals in Canada is 00011, which covers a range of senior government managers and officials. As well as fire marshals, this code covers positions such as:
- Chief administrative officer – regional municipality
- City administrator
- Deputy minister
- Director General – government services
- Executive director – government services
- High commissioner
Where To Find More Information About Firefighter Jobs In Canada?
If you would like more specific information for a particular job or location, the online “Job Bank” is a great resource.
The “Trends Analysis” section allows you to search for a job type in any location. It will then provide information including:
- Average wages levels
- Marketplace trends
- Qualification requirements
- Geographic comparisons
- Currently available jobs
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