Firefighter in Bismarck, ND

The Salary Picture: Where Bismarck Stands

As someone who’s watched the Bismarck job market for years, I can tell you firsthand that firefighting here is a stable, respected career, but it’s not a path to instant wealth. The data confirms that reality. The median salary for a firefighter in Bismarck is $55,337/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $26.6/hour. For context, the national average for firefighters is $57,120/year, meaning Bismarck sits slightly below the median but is highly competitive for the region.

The Bismarck metropolitan area supports about 150 firefighting jobs. The 10-year job growth is projected at 4%, which is modest but steady. This isn't a boomtown for new fire halls, but retirements and natural turnover create consistent openings. The cost of living here is a major advantage, with an index of 89.6 (US avg = 100) and the average 1BR rent at just $848/month. This means your dollar stretches much further than in larger cities.

Here’s how salary typically progresses with experience in the Bismarck area:

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary Range	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level (Probationary)	$48,000 - $52,000	Basic EMT/paramedic duties, equipment maintenance, learning station protocols.
Mid-Level (Firefighter/EMT)	$53,000 - $60,000	Primary response on medical and fire calls, driving/operating apparatus, community education.
Senior (Engineer/Driver)	$60,000 - $68,000	Operating complex apparatus, mentoring junior firefighters, advanced technical training.
Expert (Lieutenant/Captain)	$65,000 - $75,000+	Shift command, station administration, specialized training (HazMat, technical rescue).

Compared to other North Dakota cities:

• Fargo: Slightly higher salaries (median closer to $58,000) due to a larger metro population and higher cost of living.
• Grand Forks: Salaries are very similar to Bismarck, often within $1,000-$2,000 of the Bismarck median.
• Minot: Salaries can be comparable, but with more volatility tied to the energy sector's boom-and-bust cycles.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about the math. A single firefighter earning the median salary of $55,337/year in Bismarck takes home approximately $4,200/month after federal and state taxes (using standard single filer deductions and ND's flat tax rate). This is an estimate; your actual take-home depends on benefits, retirement contributions, and overtime.

Here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown:

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes for a Bismarck Firefighter
Rent (1BR Apartment)	$848	Can be lower in areas like the North End or higher in Downtown.
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Internet)	$180	Varies by season; heating costs jump in winter.
Groceries	$350	Bismarck has standard grocery prices (e.g., Dan's Supermarket, Hornbacher's).
Car Payment & Insurance	$400	Necessary for most; public transit is limited.
Gas	$150	Commutes are generally short, but gas prices fluctuate.
Health Insurance (if not fully covered)	$200	Many fire departments offer strong coverage, but check specifics.
Retirement Contribution (e.g., PERA)	$300	Critical for long-term stability. North Dakota has a 7.5% employee contribution.
Savings/Discretionary	$772	A healthy buffer for emergencies, hobbies, or saving for a home.

Can they afford to buy a home?
Absolutely. This is where Bismarck shines. With a median home price around $275,000, a 20% down payment is $55,000. Given your strong savings potential ($772/month), saving for a down payment is achievable within 5-7 years through disciplined saving. A mortgage on a $220,000 loan (after down payment) would be roughly $1,200-$1,400/month (including taxes/insurance), which is manageable on a $4,200 take-home, especially with a dual-income household.

Where the Jobs Are: Bismarck's Major Employers

The firefighting landscape in Bismarck is dominated by municipal departments, with some niche opportunities in the state and federal sectors.

1. Bismarck Fire Department (BFD): The largest employer by far. BFD operates from 8 stations, covering the city of Bismarck and providing automatic aid to surrounding areas. They run a 24-hour on/48-hour off shift schedule. Hiring is competitive; they often have 2-3 openings per year. Insider Tip: BFD highly values EMT and Paramedic certification. Having these before you apply gives you a significant edge.

2. Mandan Fire Department: Just across the Missouri River, Mandan offers a similar scale and pay scale. They often collaborate with BFD on major incidents. Their community has a more industrial history, which can mean different types of calls (railroad, grain elevators).

3. Burleigh County Fire Department: This agency provides fire protection to the unincorporated areas around Bismarck and Mandan. They are a volunteer-on-call department, which means they have a mix of career and volunteer staff. It's a great entry point for new firefighters looking to get their foot in the door locally.

4. North Dakota State Fire Marshal: A state-level role. While not a traditional "on-the-truck" firefighter position, it’s a key career path. These roles involve fire investigation, code inspection, and public education. They often require prior firefighting experience.

5. Bismarck Airport Authority (Bismarck Municipal Airport): The airport has its own fire rescue service, which must meet Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) standards. These positions are highly specialized (aircraft rescue and firefighting, ARFF) and often pay above the municipal median.

6. U.S. Forest Service (Dakota Prairie Grasslands): Based in Bismarck, this federal agency manages wildland fire response across North Dakota. They hire seasonal "hotshot" crews and permanent fire management officers. It's a different pace and skill set from structural firefighting but is a major local employer for fire professionals.

7. North Dakota Department of Emergency Services (DES): Located in Bismarck, DES coordinates statewide disaster response. While not a fire department, they employ fire professionals in planning, training, and management roles.

Getting Licensed in ND

North Dakota does not have a separate state fire license. Certification is handled by the North Dakota Firefighters Association (NDFA) and the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Here’s the pathway:

1. EMT-Basic Certification (The First Step): This is non-negotiable for most paid departments. You must complete an EMT-B course (approx. 120 hours) and pass the National Registry (NREMT) exam. Local programs are offered at Bismarck State College or through private training centers. Cost: $1,200 - $2,000.
2. Firefighter I & II Certification: This is the core structural firefighting training. It’s typically a 200+ hour course. Many departments, including BFD, will sponsor your training if you are hired. If you seek it independently, expect to pay $3,000 - $5,000. The training is often held at the North Dakota State Firefighters Training Center in Mandan.
3. Paramedic Certification (Highly Recommended): A paramedic license (ND HHS Paramedic) requires 1-2 years of additional schooling and clinical hours. It significantly boosts your hireability and salary potential. Bismarck State College offers a program. Cost: $10,000 - $15,000 (but offers a high ROI).
4. Background Check & Driving Record: All departments conduct thorough background checks. A clean driving record is essential.

Timeline to Get Started:

• With EMT-B only: You could be job-ready in 6-9 months. You'll be competitive for volunteer/on-call positions or a probationary spot.
• With EMT-B + Fire I/II: 12-18 months. This is the standard entry point for most career departments.
• With Paramedic + Fire I/II: 2-3 years. You become a top-tier candidate for any department in the state.

Best Neighborhoods for Firefighters

Living in the right neighborhood means a short commute to your station and access to amenities. Bismarck is easy to navigate, but location matters.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Avg. 1BR Rent	Why Firefighters Like It
Downtown / Historic	Walkable, vibrant nightlife, older apartments. 5-10 min drive to Station 1 or 2.	$950 - $1,100	Close to the action, great for younger firefighters without family.
South/West Bismarck (Hillcrest, Sunrise)	Family-friendly, quiet, newer subdivisions. 10-15 min drive to most stations.	$900 - $1,050	Excellent schools, parks, and easy access to I-94 for out-of-town calls.
North End (Near Capitol)	Convenient, mix of older homes and apartments. 5-10 min to Station 3 (near Capitol).	$750 - $900	Very close to the Capitol complex and major hospitals.
East Bismarck (Riverview, Highland)	Affordable, established neighborhoods with character. 10-15 min commute.	$800 - $950	Good value, close to the Missouri River for recreation.
Mandan (across the river)	More industrial feel, lower cost of living. 10-15 min to Bismarck stations.	$700 - $850	Significantly cheaper rent, strong sense of community.

Insider Tip: If you're hired by BFD or Mandan, you don't need to live in the city limits. Many firefighters live in surrounding areas like Lincoln (just west of Bismarck) for more space and lower property taxes.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The path from rookie to chief is clear and structured in North Dakota.

• Specialty Premiums: Beyond base salary, you can earn more for specialized skills. BFD, for example, offers stipends for:

  • Paramedic: $2,000 - $3,000 annual bonus.
  • Technical Rescue (Rope, Confined Space, Trench): $1,000 - $1,500.
  • HazMat Technician: $1,000 - $1,500.
  • Fire Inspector/Investigator: Can lead to a promotion to Lieutenant or Captain.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Firefighter → Engineer/Driver: (2-4 years) Requires driving certification and seniority.
  2. Engineer → Lieutenant: (5-8 years) Involves shift command and station administration. Requires testing and leadership skills.
  3. Lieutenant → Captain: (8-12 years) Manages a station or company, more administrative.
  4. Captain → Battalion Chief: (12-15+ years) Oversees multiple stations, large-scale incident command. Often requires a degree in Fire Science or Public Administration.

• 10-Year Outlook: The 4% job growth is conservative. The real opportunity lies in replacing an aging workforce. Many senior firefighters in Bismarck will retire in the next decade. Furthermore, the trend is toward more integrated public safety, meaning cross-training in law enforcement (e.g., Community Resource Officer roles) is a growth area. A firefighter with a paramedic license and technical rescue certs will be well-positioned for leadership.

The Verdict: Is Bismarck Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Excellent Work-Life Balance with the 24/48 shift schedule.	Winters are harsh (Nov-Mar), with extreme cold and heavy snow, which can be physically demanding.
Very Low Cost of Living – Your paycheck goes far, home ownership is attainable.	Limited "big city" amenities – Fewer entertainment options, diverse food scenes, or cultural events compared to Minneapolis or Denver.
Strong sense of community and job stability.	Job market is small – Only ~150 positions total, so openings are limited.
Surrounding outdoor recreation (hunting, fishing, Theodore Roosevelt National Park).	Can be politically and culturally homogenous, which may not suit everyone.
Clear career path with state-standardized certifications.	Summers can be very hot and humid, with grassfire and wildfire risks.

Final Recommendation:
Bismarck is an ideal choice for a firefighter who values stability, affordability, and a slower pace of life. It's perfect for those who want to own a home, start a family, and enjoy the outdoors without the financial stress of a major metro area. It's not the place for someone seeking a fast-paced, high-energy urban environment. If you have your EMT or paramedic license, are willing to be a team player, and don't mind -30°F winters, Bismarck offers a rewarding, grounded career.

FAQs

1. Do I need to be a North Dakota resident to apply?
No, most departments do not require residency at the time of application. However, you must be able to relocate and start work by the specified date. Some may give preference to residents during the final hiring phase.

2. How competitive is the hiring process for the Bismarck Fire Department?
Very competitive for a city of its size. They often receive 100+ applications for 2-3 spots. The process includes a written exam, physical ability test (CPAT), multiple panel interviews, and a rigorous background check. Having your EMT-B and Fire I/II is the minimum; paramedic certification makes you a standout candidate.

3. What is the retirement system like?
North Dakota uses the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) for firefighters. It's a defined benefit plan. Employees contribute 7.5% of their salary, and the employer contributes a significant amount. After 30 years of service, you can retire with a benefit based on your average salary. It's a solid, stable system.

4. I'm a firefighter from another state. How do I get certified in ND?
You must have your certifications from your home state evaluated by the North Dakota Firefighters Association (NDFA). They will determine if your training meets ND standards. You may need to complete a short "bridge" course or take an equivalency exam. The NDFA website has a clear process for reciprocity.

5. What's the call volume like?
It varies by station. Downtown stations (1, 2, 3) are the busiest, running 3,000+ calls a year. Outlying stations (5, 6, 7) may run 1,500-2,000 calls. A significant portion (60-70%) are medical emergencies, underscoring the importance of EMT/paramedic skills. The remaining are a mix of fire alarms, vehicle accidents, and occasional structure fires or wildland calls.

Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Licensing Board, North Dakota Firefighters Association (NDFA), Bismarck City Government website, U.S. Census Bureau data.