Firefighter in Biddeford, ME

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Firefighters considering a move to Biddeford, ME.

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The Salary Picture: Where Biddeford Stands

As a local, I can tell you that firefighting in Biddeford isn’t about getting rich; it’s about stability, community, and a solid middle-class life. The numbers back it up. The median salary for a Firefighter here is $57,736/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $27.76/hour. This is just slightly above the national average of $57,120/year, a small but meaningful difference that helps offset the slightly higher cost of living.

The job market here is tight. In the Biddeford metro area (which includes neighboring towns like Saco and Kennebunkport), there are only about 44 firefighting jobs total. This isn’t a place with massive, constant turnover, so openings are competitive. However, the 10-year job growth projection is a healthy 4%. This growth isn't explosive, but it’s steady, driven by retirements, population growth in surrounding areas, and the need to replace aging staff. It means the door is open, but you have to be ready when it is.

To give you a clearer picture of how experience translates to pay, here’s a general breakdown. Note: These are estimates based on local union contracts and state data; specific rates can vary by department.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	$48,000 - $52,000	Probationary firefighter, EMT-Basic certified, primary suppression duties.
Mid-Career	$57,736 - $65,000	Senior firefighter, EMT-Paramedic certified, driver/operator, training officer.
Senior	$65,000 - $75,000	Lieutenant, Captain, Specialized Rescue Technician, shift supervisor.
Expert/Chief	$75,000+	Battalion Chief, Fire Marshal, Public Fire Educator, Administration.

When you compare Biddeford to other Maine cities, the context matters. While $57,736 might be the median here, it’s in line with other mid-sized coastal cities like Auburn or Lewiston. It’s higher than rural northern Maine but lower than the high-demand, high-cost areas around Portland. For a firefighter with a family, Biddeford offers a compelling balance of salary and affordability that you won’t find in bigger metros.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about the budget. A single firefighter earning the median salary of $57,736 will take home significantly less after taxes. We’re looking at an estimated $1,400-$1,500 per month for federal and state income taxes, Social Security, and Medicare. That leaves a net monthly income of approximately $3,400 to $3,500.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Biddeford is $1,139/month. This is a key number. It means housing will eat up about 33% of your take-home pay. That’s at the upper limit of what’s considered affordable (30%), but it’s manageable, especially if you’re willing to have a roommate or live in a slightly older building.

Here’s a sample monthly budget breakdown for a mid-career firefighter:

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR Average)	$1,139	You can find places for $950-$1,200.
Utilities (Heat, Electric, Internet)	$200 - $300	Depends on the building's age and efficiency.
Car Payment/Insurance/Gas	$400 - $600	Crucial Insight: Biddeford is not a walkable city for daily life. You need a reliable car.
Groceries & Household	$350 - $450
Health Insurance	$150 - $250	Often a good deal with municipal jobs, but still a cost.
Retirement Savings (401k/457)	$200 - $300	Start early; pensions are good but not always 100% replacement.
Discretionary/Fun	$300 - $500	Dining out, entertainment, hobbies.
Total	$2,739 - $3,539	Leaves a small buffer if managed well.

Can you afford to buy a home? Yes, but with caveats. The median home price in Biddeford hovers around $325,000. With a 10% down payment ($32,500), a 30-year mortgage at current rates would have a monthly payment of around $1,800-$2,000 (including taxes and insurance), which is higher than the average rent. This is doable for a dual-income household or for a senior firefighter earning closer to $70,000+. For a single, entry-level firefighter, buying a home immediately is a stretch. Many local firefighters live in neighboring Saco (where prices are similar) or in the more affordable neighborhoods of Biddeford itself (like the Hill or near the hospital) and build equity over time.

Where the Jobs Are: Biddeford's Major Employers

The Biddeford Fire Department is the primary employer, but the ecosystem around it is what creates stability and opportunities. Here are the key players:

1. Biddeford Fire Department: The main show. A combination career department with full-time, part-time, and on-call staff. They run three stations covering a city of over 22,000 people. Hiring is periodic and based on test scores and veteran preference. They handle everything from structure fires to medical calls (EMT is essential here).

2. Saco Fire Department (Neighbors): Just over the line in Saco, this department is a major competitor for talent. They often have similar pay scales and benefits. Many firefighters live in Biddeford but work in Saco, or vice-versa. The commute is 5-10 minutes.

3. Kennebunkport Fire & Rescue: Another nearby employer known for covering a large, seasonal tourist population. Their hiring can be more competitive due to the prestige of the area, but they offer unique experience in marine and seasonal incident response.

4. Maine Medical Center (in Portland): While not a fire department, this is a massive regional employer (15-minute drive). They have a robust Emergency Department and often hire EMTs and Paramedics for their ground and air ambulances. Many firefighters work PRN (as-needed) shifts here to supplement income.

5. York Hospital: Located in York, a 25-minute drive south. Their emergency services are a major employer for regional EMTs and Paramedics. This is a key spot for those looking to build medical experience before landing a full-time firefighter spot.

6. Biddeford-Saco-Old Orchard Beach (BSOO) Transit: While not a fire employer, this bus service is vital. If your car breaks down, reliable public transit connects you to Portland and surrounding areas, which is a critical backup.

Hiring Trends: The trend here is toward EMT-Paramedic certification. Simply being a firefighter isn't enough; you need advanced medical skills. The departments are also looking for candidates with clean driving records, no criminal history, and the ability to pass rigorous physical agility tests (CPAT). The 10-year growth of 4% means retirements are the biggest driver of openings, so networking with current firefighters at local events (like the Biddeford Annual Public Safety Appreciation Day) is a smart move.

Getting Licensed in ME

Maine has clear, state-mandated pathways. It’s a process, but it’s straightforward.

1. Certification & Licensing:

• Firefighter I & II: You must be certified through the Maine Fire Service Institute (MFSI) or through a recognized academy. This is a non-negotiable prerequisite for most full-time jobs. The course typically costs $2,500 - $4,000 and takes 6-12 months if done part-time.
• EMT/Paramedic: This is your golden ticket. The state’s Office of Licensing and Certification oversees this. An EMT-Basic course runs $800 - $1,500 and takes 4-6 months. A Paramedic certification is a more intensive $8,000 - $12,000 and can take 1.5-2 years. Biddeford Fire requires EMT-Basic; having Paramedic makes you a top candidate.
• Driver's License: A valid Class B or C commercial driver’s license (CDL) is often required for operating fire apparatus. Many departments will train you, but having it already is a huge plus.

2. The Process & Timeline:

• Step 1 (3-6 months): Get your EMT-Basic and Firefighter I. You can do these concurrently at community colleges like Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) in South Portland.
• Step 2 (Ongoing): Pass the CPAT (Candidate Physical Ability Test). You need to train for this specifically; it’s not a gym workout. It’s a timed, weighted obstacle course.
• Step 3 (1-2 years): Apply. The Biddeford test is usually given every 1-3 years. You’ll take a written exam, then an oral board, then a background check. If you’re on the list, you could wait a year or more for an offer.
• Step 4: Once hired, you’ll undergo a probationary period (often 1 year) with intensive on-the-job training.

Insider Tip: The MFSI holds regular recruit classes. Getting into one of these can fast-track you. Also, Biddeford often hires from a certification list where you already have your Firefighter I/II and EMT. This means you should get certified before you move, as it’s easier to get hired when you’re already qualified.

Best Neighborhoods for Firefighters

Biddeford is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own vibe. For a firefighter, commute time and affordability are key.

• The Hill (Downtown Core): This is the historic heart of Biddeford. You’re close to all the action—coffee shops, bars, and the waterfront. It’s walkable, which is a rare luxury. Rent for a 1BR is around $1,100 - $1,300. The commute to any station is under 10 minutes. It’s ideal for young, single firefighters who want an active social scene.
• Biddeford Pool / Fortune’s Beach: This is the affluent coastal section. It’s quieter, with stunning homes and beach access. Rent is high ($1,400+ for a 1BR, if you can find one). It’s a 10-15 minute commute. This is more for senior firefighters or those with families who value space and the outdoors over nightlife.
• The West Side / Airport Road Area: This is more residential and suburban. You’ll find newer apartment complexes and single-family homes. Rents are more moderate ($1,000 - $1,200). The commute to Station 1 (Main St.) is easy, but you’ll need a car for everything. This is a great choice for firefighters starting a family who want a quiet, safe neighborhood with good schools (like Biddeford Intermediate).
• Saco (Just Across the Line): Many firefighters choose to live in Saco. The neighborhoods around Main Street and Route 1 are very similar to Biddeford’s West Side. Insider Tip: Property taxes can be slightly lower in Saco, and the public school system is often considered a bit better by some locals. The rent is comparable ($1,100 - $1,250), and you’re still only 5-10 minutes from the Biddeford stations.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Staying in Biddeford long-term is about specialization and moving up the chain of command.

• Specialty Premiums & Advancements: Once you’re a permanent firefighter, you can pursue specialized training, often with the department covering the cost. These specialties come with pay differentials or "hazard pay":

  • EMT-Paramedic: The most valuable. Can add $2,000 - $5,000 to your annual salary.
  • Technical Rescue: Rope, confined space, and trench rescue. Biddeford crews often train with Portland’s resources.
  • Fire Investigator: Leads to a role in the Fire Marshal’s office, often a 9-5 schedule.
  • Driver/Operator: Operating the engines and ladders. A critical skill that leads to Lieutenant.
  • Physical Fitness Incentive: Some departments offer a small annual bonus for maintaining top-tier fitness scores.

• 10-Year Outlook: The 4% job growth is positive. In 10 years, you could reasonably expect to be in a Lieutenant or Captain’s role if you’re proactive. The key advancement path is: Firefighter → Driver/Operator → Lieutenant → Captain → Battalion Chief. Each step requires additional training, testing, and leadership experience. Biddeford is a stable department; senior staff tend to stay until retirement, so openings at the top are predictable but competitive.

Insider Tip: Get involved in the union (IAFF Local 1476). It’s not just about contract negotiations; it’s about understanding the career ladder, securing better training opportunities, and building camaraderie. It’s a small, tight-knit group, and your reputation matters.

The Verdict: Is Biddeford Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Stable, Union-Protected Job with a pension.	Job Market is Tiny: Only 44 jobs in the metro. You must be patient.
Affordable Cost of Living relative to salary.	High Upfront Certification Costs ($3k-$12k) before you get hired.
Strong Community of firefighters; everyone knows each other.	Competitive Hiring: You need EMT-Paramedic and top CPAT scores to stand out.
Variety of Work: Coastal, urban, and suburban responses.	Car-Dependent City: You cannot live here easily without a vehicle.
Proximity to Portland & Beaches for days off.	Slower Pace: If you want a massive, fast-paced department, Biddeford isn't it.

Final Recommendation:
Biddeford is an excellent choice for a firefighter who values community, stability, and work-life balance over the chaos and prestige of a major city department. It’s ideal for someone who has already or is willing to invest in getting their EMT-Paramedic certification. The salary of $57,736 provides a solid, middle-class life here, but you must be financially disciplined, especially in the first few years. If you’re willing to live in a neighboring town like Saco, you open up more housing options without sacrificing commute time. This is a long-term play, not a quick jump. If you’re looking for a home, a strong network, and a career where you’re a respected part of the fabric of a city, Biddeford is a truly compelling place to land.

FAQs

Q: Do I need to be a Paramedic to get hired by Biddeford Fire?
A: While the minimum is EMT-Basic, having your Paramedic license makes you a highly competitive candidate. In a tight market with only 44 jobs, you should get every edge you can. Most successful hires have at least EMT-Intermediate or Paramedic.

Q: What’s the cost of living really like for a single firefighter?
A: It’s manageable. With a take-home of ~$3,500 and rent at $1,139, you have about $2,300 for everything else. If you’re smart with your car payment and avoid too much debt, you can live comfortably and even save. The Cost of Living Index is 103.6 (US avg = 100), so you’re only paying about 3.6% more than the national average, which is absorbed by the slightly higher-than-average salary.

Q: How do I prepare for the CPAT?
A: Start training at least 6 months in advance. The test is brutal. Many local gyms (like Planet Fitness or the YMCA in Biddeford) have trainers familiar with it. Insider Tip: The stair climb in full gear is the biggest hurdle. Practice on a StairMaster while wearing a weighted vest. Don’t just run—build functional strength.

Q: Is Biddeford safe for families?
A: Yes, in the right neighborhoods. The city is working hard on revitalization, and the West Side and areas near the pool are very family-friendly. The public school system is decent, though many opt for private schools or the regional high school in Saco. Crime rates are typical for a post-industrial Maine city—mostly property crime, not violent.

Q: What’s the hiring process like if I’m from out of state?
A: It’s the same, but you’ll have to travel for the tests. Biddeford’s civil service exam is usually held on a Saturday. You’ll need to get your Maine EMT and Firefighter I/II certifications recognized or completed before you apply. It’s a significant investment, so many out-of-state candidates will move here, get certified, and then start applying.