Firefighter in Aberdeen, SD

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Firefighters considering a move to Aberdeen, South Dakota.

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The Salary Picture: Where Aberdeen Stands

If you're looking at the financial picture for a Firefighter in Aberdeen, you're looking at a market that sits just slightly below the national average but offers a significantly lower cost of living. The median salary for a Firefighter in Aberdeen is $55,320/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $26.6/hour. This is compared to a national average of $57,120/year. While the salary is about $1,800 less than the national figure, Aberdeen's cost of living index of 89.5 (where the U.S. average is 100) means your dollar stretches much further here.

The job market for Firefighters in the Aberdeen metro area is stable but not explosive. According to local data, there are approximately 56 jobs in the metro, with a 10-year job growth projected at 4%. This suggests a steady demand for replacing retiring firefighters rather than a rapid expansion of departments.

To understand where you might fit in, here’s a breakdown of typical salary progression:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Notes for Aberdeen
Entry-Level (0-3 years)	$45,000 - $52,000	Typically starts as a Firefighter/EMT. Requires state certification.
Mid-Level (4-9 years)	$52,000 - $60,000	Often includes driver/operator or specialist roles (e.g., Hazmat).
Senior (10-19 years)	$60,000 - $70,000	Usually involves officer roles (Lieutenant, Captain).
Expert/Chief (20+ years)	$70,000+	Battalion Chief or Fire Chief. Highly competitive, limited openings.

Insider Tip: Many firefighters in South Dakota supplement their income with on-call or volunteer work in smaller surrounding communities, though Aberdeen's departments are primarily full-time, paid positions.

When compared to other South Dakota cities, Aberdeen offers a balanced middle ground. Sioux Falls, the state's largest city, has a higher cost of living and more competition, but also higher top-end salaries. Rapid City has a similar cost of living but a different job market driven by tourism and proximity to national parks. Aberdeen's strength is its stability and affordability.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about what a $55,320 salary means for your monthly budget in Aberdeen. After federal and state taxes (South Dakota has no state income tax, which is a major advantage), your take-home pay will be approximately $3,400 - $3,600 per month.

With the average 1BR rent in Aberdeen at $760/month, a single firefighter can live comfortably. Here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown:

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR Apartment)	$760	Average in areas like the North Side or near the hospital.
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Internet)	$250	Sioux Valley Energy is the primary provider.
Groceries	$400	For a single person. Local chains include Hy-Vee and Super Target.
Vehicle (Gas, Insurance, Maintenance)	$350	Essential. Aberdeen is a driving city with limited public transit.
Healthcare (Insurance Premiums)	$150	Often covered well by city benefits, but budget for copays.
Miscellaneous (Food, Entertainment, Gear)	$400	Firefighters often have personal gear expenses.
Total Estimated Expenses	$2,310
Remaining for Savings/Debt	$1,090 - $1,290

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in Aberdeen is approximately $220,000. With a strong credit score and a 10% down payment ($22,000), a monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would be around $1,400-$1,550. This is highly affordable on a $55,320 salary, especially for a dual-income household. Many firefighters in the area live in nearby suburbs like Mansfield or on acreages outside the city limits.

Where the Jobs Are: Aberdeen's Major Employers

Aberdeen's firefighting jobs are concentrated within a few key employers. The city is not a major hub for large private fire departments, so your focus should be on municipal and regional agencies.

1. Aberdeen Fire Department (City of Aberdeen): The primary employer. This is a full-time, career department serving the city of ~28,297 people. They operate from multiple stations and offer robust benefits, including a pension plan. Hiring is competitive and typically occurs every 2-3 years as retirees leave. They run a joint 911 dispatch center with the police department.
2. Brown County Fire Department: Covers the unincorporated areas of Brown County. They often work in tandem with the Aberdeen Fire Department on large incidents. Some positions may be part-time or on-call, but full-time opportunities can arise.
3. South Dakota State Fire Marshal: While not a field firefighting role, the State Fire Marshal's office has a presence in the region. They conduct inspections, investigations, and training. A background as a firefighter is a prerequisite for these roles.
4. Avera St. Luke's Hospital: While the hospital has its own internal safety and maintenance staff, they are a major community partner. Firefighters often train with them on medical emergencies and hazardous material incidents. The hospital is a significant employer in the city and a hub for EMS collaboration.
5. Northern State University (NSU): The university has its own campus safety and facilities staff. While not a traditional fire department, they have fire safety needs and often partner with the city fire department for training and coverage.
6. South Dakota Army National Guard - Aberdeen National Guard Armory: The armory is a key facility in the city. Firefighters may provide training support or be called for incidents on the property. Some Guard members are also dual-status firefighters.
7. Local Industrial Sites (e.g., 3M, Hub City, Others): While not direct employers for firefighters, large industrial sites like 3M have significant internal safety teams and require close coordination with the fire department. This creates a network of safety professionals and potential for joint training.

Hiring Trends: The trend in Aberdeen is toward requiring advanced certifications at the time of hire, such as EMT-Basic or Paramedic. The 4% growth rate indicates that openings will be filled primarily by attrition, so networking and being proactive is key.

Getting Licensed in South Dakota

To be hired as a firefighter in South Dakota, you must be certified by the South Dakota Fire Marshal (SDFM). The process is straightforward but requires dedication.

State-Specific Requirements:

1. Firefighter I Certification: This is the baseline. The curriculum is based on NFPA 1001 standards. You must complete a state-approved training course (often at a community college or training academy) and pass the practical and written exams.
2. EMT-Basic Certification: In Aberdeen and most of SD, this is essentially a requirement. Most departments run a combined Fire/EMS model. You must be certified by the South Dakota Department of Health.
3. Physical Fitness Test: Candidates must pass the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT), which is a nationally recognized standard. Aberdeen's department uses this test.
4. Background Check & Driving Record: A clean record is non-negotiable.

Costs and Timeline:

• Firefighter I Certification: Can cost between $1,500 - $3,000 if taken at a private academy. Many community colleges (like Lake Area Technical Institute in Watertown, ~60 miles away) offer programs within this range.
• EMT-Basic: Typically costs $1,000 - $1,500 for the course.
• Total Initial Investment: $2,500 - $4,500.
• Timeline: It typically takes 6-12 months to complete Firefighter I and EMT-Basic if pursued full-time. Many candidates work part-time or volunteer while training.

Insider Tip: Check with the Aberdeen Fire Department for potential tuition reimbursement programs or sponsorship opportunities. Some departments will pay for your training if you commit to working for them for a set number of years.

Best Neighborhoods for Firefighters

Aberdeen is a compact, navigable city. Commutes are short, but choosing the right neighborhood can improve your quality of life.

1. North Side / Near Avera St. Luke's: This is a popular area for healthcare workers and first responders. It has a mix of older, well-maintained homes and newer apartments. It's very close to the hospital and the main fire station (Station #1 on 8th Ave NW). Rent Estimate: $700 - $850 for a 1BR.
2. South Side / Near Northern State University: A quieter, family-friendly area with good schools. Homes are typically single-family, offering more space. The commute to downtown stations is still short (10-15 minutes). Rent Estimate: $650 - $800 for a 1BR; great value for 2BRs.
3. East Side / Near the Mall Area: Modern apartments and townhomes dominate here. It's convenient for shopping and dining, with easy access to Highway 12. A good option for younger, single firefighters. Rent Estimate: $750 - $950 for a 1BR.
4. West Side / Historic District: Features charming, older homes with character. It's close to the city center and parks like Wylie Park. Commute is negligible. Rent Estimate: A 1BR might be harder to find (more single-family homes), but rentals in the area average $700 - $900.
5. Suburbs - Mansfield & Claremont: If you desire more space and a small-town feel, these towns are 10-15 minutes outside of Aberdeen. Rent or mortgage costs are even lower, and you get a true "home base" feel. Rent Estimate: $600 - $750 for a rental house.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Career progression in Aberdeen follows a traditional path, but specialization can lead to increased pay and responsibility.

• Specialty Premiums: While not always a formal "premium," expertise in certain areas is highly valued and can lead to promotion. These include:
  • Driver/Operator: Requires obtaining a Class B CDL and mastering the fire apparatus. A key step to becoming an officer.
  • Hazardous Materials Technician: A specialized certification that makes you invaluable for industrial incidents in the region.
  • Fire Inspector/Investigator: These roles often come with higher pay and are based at the administrative level. Requires additional state certification.
  • EMS Lead/Paramedic: If you pursue your Paramedic license (another 1-2 years of training), your value to the department increases exponentially, as most medical calls in the region are handled by fire-based EMS.
• Advancement Path: Firefighter → Driver/Operator → Lieutenant → Captain → Battalion Chief → Fire Chief. The timeline from entry-level to Lieutenant can be 8-15 years, depending on openings and department size.
• 10-Year Outlook: With a 4% job growth, the outlook is stable. The key is to adapt. The trend is toward more integrated EMS and fire suppression. Firefighters who are also Paramedics will have the most opportunities for advancement and job security. Aberdeen's aging population will also increase the demand for medical response, which is a core function of the local departments.

The Verdict: Is Aberdeen Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $55,320 salary goes much further than in major metros.	Limited Job Market: Only 56 jobs in the metro; hiring is sporadic.
Stable, Close-Knit Community: A great place to raise a family.	Weather: Harsh winters with heavy snow and ice, and hot, humid summers.
No State Income Tax: A significant financial benefit.	Isolation: It's a 3-hour drive to Sioux Falls; you're in the heart of the Great Plains.
Strong Department Benefits: Pension, health insurance, and job security.	Slower Pace: Limited nightlife and cultural amenities compared to larger cities.
Short Commutes: You can live anywhere and be at work in minutes.	Lower Ceiling: Top-end salaries are modest compared to national standards.

Final Recommendation:
Aberdeen is an excellent choice for a firefighter who values stability, community, and financial quality of life over high-octane city living or rapid career acceleration. It's ideal for those who are early in their careers looking to buy a home quickly, or for senior firefighters seeking a quieter pace. If you're willing to advance your skills (especially as a Paramedic) and embrace the outdoor lifestyle, Aberdeen offers a fulfilling and financially sound career path.

FAQs

Q: Do I need to be a certified EMT to get hired in Aberdeen?
A: While not always listed as a formal requirement, it is a de facto necessity. Over 80% of calls in Aberdeen are medical. Departments strongly prefer (and often only hire) candidates who already have their EMT-Basic certification.

Q: Is volunteer firefighting a common path to a full-time job here?
A: Yes. While the Aberdeen Fire Department is full-time, many surrounding towns and Brown County rely on volunteers. Getting your Firefighter I and EMT certifications through a volunteer department is a fantastic way to gain experience and build relationships that can lead to a full-time position.

Q: What is the housing market like for a single firefighter on a $55k salary?
A: Very affordable. You can comfortably rent a 1BR apartment for $760/month and still have over $1,000 left for savings, debt, and discretionary spending. Many firefighters choose to buy a home within their first 2-3 years of employment.

Q: How do Aberdeen's winters affect the job?
A: Significantly. Firefighters must be prepared for blizzards, frozen hydrants, and icy roads. Training includes cold-weather operations, and gear is designed for extreme conditions. Your personal vehicle must be reliable in winter.

Q: What is the best way to find out about openings?
A: Monitor the City of Aberdeen's official website under the "Careers" section. Also, connect with the South Dakota Firefighter's Association and network at training events. Jobs aren't always advertised widely; knowing someone already on the department can be a huge advantage.