Firefighter in Camden, NJ

As a career analyst who’s walked the streets of Camden—from the waterfront redevelopment to the tight-knit rowhome blocks of Cramer Hill—I can tell you that being a firefighter here is a unique proposition. You’re not just joining a department; you’re joining a city with a gritty, resilient soul. This guide cuts through the noise with hard data, local specifics, and the unvarnished truth about the job market in one of New Jersey’s most challenging and rewarding cities.

The Salary Picture: Where Camden Stands

Let’s get straight to the numbers. The median salary for a firefighter in the Camden metro area is $57,719 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $27.75. This sits just above the national average of $57,120/year, a slight but meaningful premium that reflects the regional cost of living and the demands of the job in the state.

However, a single median figure can be misleading. Your earnings will vary dramatically based on experience, rank, and the specific department (municipal vs. county). In New Jersey, union contracts and structured pay scales are the norm. Here’s a realistic breakdown:

Experience Level	Typical Title	Estimated Annual Salary
Entry (0-3 years)	Firefighter / Probationary	$48,000 - $55,000
Mid (4-10 years)	Senior Firefighter / Engineer	$60,000 - $75,000
Senior (10-18 years)	Lieutenant / Captain	$85,000 - $105,000+
Expert (18+ years)	Battalion Chief / Deputy Chief	$110,000 - $140,000+

Insider Tip: The jump from mid to senior level is where you see the most significant pay increase, often tied to promotional exams and taking on officer responsibilities.

Comparison to Other NJ Cities

Camden’s salary is competitive within the immediate region. For context:

• Philadelphia Metro: Slightly higher cost of living, but salaries are often in the $60,000-$65,000 range for mid-career firefighters.
• Newark/Trenton: Major city departments often offer higher starting salaries due to larger budgets and higher call volumes, but the cost of living and urban challenges are also more intense.
• South Jersey Suburbs (e.g., Cherry Hill, Mount Laurel): Salaries can be comparable, but the job typically involves more residential fires and motor vehicle accidents, with less of the structural complexity found in Camden’s older housing stock.

Camden offers a balance: a salary that provides a stable living in a high-demand environment, without the extreme cost pressures of North Jersey cities.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A $57,719 salary sounds solid, but let’s see what it translates to in Camden. We’ll use the local average 1BR rent of $1,451/month and a cost of living index of 103.5 (3.5% higher than the U.S. average).

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Single Firefighter:

• Gross Monthly Income: $4,810
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, State, FICA): ~$1,100
• Net Take-Home Pay: ~$3,710
• Rent (1BR average): -$1,451
• Remaining for Utilities, Food, Transport, Savings: ~$2,259

Analysis: This is a workable budget, but it requires discipline. With an estimated $2,259 left after rent and taxes, you can cover a car payment (essential, as public transit to some stations can be unreliable), groceries, and still save. You won’t be living lavishly, but you can live comfortably.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
This is the tougher question. The median home price in Camden city limits is around $150,000-$180,000, far below the NJ state average. However, insurance costs can be high, and property taxes are significant. For a firefighter earning the median, buying a home is feasible but requires careful planning. A dual-income household makes it much more achievable. Many firefighters live in nearby suburbs like Pennsauken, Collingswood, or even Mount Laurel, where they can find more space and better school districts, albeit with a longer commute.

Where the Jobs Are: Camden's Major Employers

The job market for firefighters in Camden is small but defined. There are approximately 142 firefighting jobs in the metro area, with a 10-year job growth of 4%, which is about average. Hiring is slow, competitive, and often tied to retirements. Here’s where the openings are:

1. Camden Fire Department (CFD): The primary employer. A historic, all-career department with 6 engine companies and 2 ladder companies. They handle everything from occupied rowhome fires to industrial blazes along the Delaware River. Hiring is periodic and requires passing the New Jersey Civil Service exam.
2. Camden County Police Department (Camden County Fire Rescue): The county handles fire services for several townships. They offer a different career path, often with more varied calls (wildland, vehicle accidents in more suburban areas). Their hiring process is separate from the city.
3. Virtua Health System: While not a fire department, Virtua operates two major hospitals in Camden (Our Lady of Lourdes and the new Virtua Camden Medical Center). They employ a large, specialized fire safety and emergency response team for hospital campuses, which is a growing niche.
4. Port of Camden / Delaware River Port Authority (DRPA): The port facilities and bridges require dedicated fire protection. These are specialized, often industrial firefighting roles that come with excellent training and benefits. They are less frequent but highly coveted.
5. Rutgers University–Camden: The university has its own public safety department, which includes fire safety officers. This is a good option for those interested in a campus environment with a mix of fire prevention and emergency response.
6. New Jersey State Fire Marshal’s Office: Based in Trenton but covering the entire state, this office employs fire investigators and inspectors. It’s a great path for firefighters looking to transition into a more investigative or regulatory role.
7. Atlantic City Fire Department: A 45-minute drive, but a major tourist destination with a high call volume and unique challenges (casinos, nightlife). They hire regularly and often look for experienced personnel.

Hiring Trend: The trend is toward consolidation and specialized roles. Recent years have seen more collaboration between city and county services, and a growing need for technical rescue (confined space, high-angle) due to Camden’s aging infrastructure.

Getting Licensed in NJ

Becoming a firefighter in New Jersey is a structured process governed by the state.

1. Certification: You must first obtain Certification #10 (Firefighter I) from the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety (DFS). This involves completing a state-approved Firefighter I academy, which is typically 180-240 hours of training. Many community colleges (like Camden County College) offer these programs. Cost: $2,000 - $4,000 (excluding personal gear).

2. Civil Service Exam: For municipal departments like Camden CFD, you must pass the New Jersey Civil Service Commission’s exam. The exam is competitive; scoring high is critical. Study guides are available online.

3. EMS Requirement: Almost all departments require EMT-Basic (EMT-B) certification. This is separate from Fire I and must be obtained first. Cost: $1,000 - $1,500.

4. Process Timeline:

• Get EMT-B: 3-6 months
• Complete Fire I: 4-6 months (often combined in an academy)
• Pass Civil Service Exam: Timings vary; you must wait for an open filing period.
• Hiring Process (Background, Medical, Psychological, Physical Agility): 3-6 months after exam results.
• Total Realistic Timeline: 12-18 months from starting your EMT to landing a job offer, if you pass everything on the first try.

Insider Tip: Many aspiring firefighters in South Jersey get their EMT and Fire I certifications first, then work as per-diem EMTs or on volunteer departments to gain experience while waiting for a full-time career call.

Best Neighborhoods for Firefighters

Where you live in or near Camden affects your budget, commute, and lifestyle. Here are the top considerations:

1. Cramer Hill (Camden): Located in the northern part of the city, close to the CFD headquarters. It’s a dense, residential neighborhood with a strong sense of community. Rent is below the city average, often around $1,100 - $1,300 for a 1BR. The commute to station houses is a short drive or even walk. You’ll be living in the heart of the community you serve.
2. Cooper Grant (Waterfront): The gentrifying area near Rutgers and the waterfront. It’s safer, cleaner, and more walkable. However, rent is higher, approaching the city average of $1,450+. The commute is easy, and you’re close to I-676 for quick access to other stations or county jobs. It offers a more urban, professional lifestyle.
3. Pennsauken (Township): Just across the river from Camden, this is a classic “firefighter suburb.” It’s affordable, with good schools and a strong fire service culture. Rent for a 1BR is similar to Camden ($1,300 - $1,500), but you get more space. The commute to Camden CFD is 10-15 minutes via the Betsy Ross Bridge. It’s a popular choice for firefighters with families.
4. Collingswood (Township): A bit further west, known for its walkable downtown, great schools, and tight-knit community. Rents are higher ($1,500 - $1,700 for a 1BR), but the quality of life is top-tier. The commute to Camden is 20-25 minutes. Ideal for those who want a suburban feel with a quick city access.
5. Haddonfield (Township): The affluent neighbor. Rents are significantly higher ($1,800+ for a 1BR). A firefighter earning the median salary would find it challenging here unless combined with a second income. It’s a longer commute, but the lifestyle and school system are among the best in the state.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Firefighting in Camden is not a dead-end job; it’s a career ladder with clear advancement paths.

• Specialty Premiums: Once you’re a career firefighter, you can earn extra income through specialty certifications.

  • Hazardous Materials Technician: Critical for the industrial corridors along the Delaware. Can add $2,000 - $5,000 annually.
  • Technical Rescue (Confined Space, Trench, Water): Camden’s old infrastructure and river location make this valuable. Premiums vary by department.
  • Fire Inspector/Investigator: A path to a 9-5 schedule, often with a pay raise. Requires additional state certification.
  • EMS Supervisor: For those with advanced EMT (AEMT) or Paramedic certification, which is highly encouraged.

• Advancement Path: Typically: Firefighter → Engineer (drives apparatus) → Lieutenant (company officer) → Captain → Battalion Chief. Each promotion involves a competitive exam and significant pay increases.

• 10-Year Outlook: With a 4% job growth rate over 10 years, openings will be slow. The key to advancement will be taking promotional exams as soon as you’re eligible (usually after 3-5 years). The future leans toward more integrated emergency response, with fire departments increasingly handling medical calls (often 70%+ of run volume). Specializing in EMS or technical rescue will make you indispensable. The move toward consolidation with county services may create new roles, but it could also reduce the number of municipal departments.

The Verdict: Is Camden Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Meaningful Work: You serve a resilient community that truly needs your skills.	High-Stress Environment: Call volume is high, with a mix of complex structure fires and frequent medical emergencies.
Competitive Salary vs. Cost of Living: The $57,719 median goes further here than in most NJ cities.	Slow Hiring: With only 142 jobs and 4% growth, you must be patient and persistent.
Strong Union & Benefits: NJ fire unions are powerful, offering excellent pensions, health benefits, and overtime opportunities.	Budget Constraints: Camden’s tax base is limited, which can impact equipment upgrades and station facilities.
Training & Specialization: Camden offers unparalleled experience in urban firefighting, hazmat, and technical rescue, valuable for any resume.	City Challenges: You’ll work in a city with high poverty and crime rates, which can be emotionally taxing.
Gateway to South Jersey: Living here gives easy access to the shore, Philly, and a lower cost of living.	Long Commute for Suburban Life: If you want to live in the best school districts, expect a 15-30 minute commute to the city.

Final Recommendation:
Camden is an excellent choice for a motivated, physically and mentally tough firefighter who values experience over immediate luxury. It’s perfect for those starting out who want to gain unparalleled big-city experience without the astronomical cost of living. It’s also a solid fit for mid-career shooters looking to promote quickly. If your primary goal is a quiet suburban life with minimal stress, you might find a better fit in a smaller township. But if you’re ready to be tested, to earn your stripes in a true urban environment, and to build a career on meaningful work, Camden should be at the top of your list.

FAQs

1. How competitive is the hiring for Camden Fire Department?
Extremely competitive. You must pass the Civil Service exam with a high score. The process is rigorous, and the physical agility test is demanding. Having your EMT-B and Fire I before you apply is the bare minimum; many candidates also have college degrees or military experience.

2. Do I need to live in Camden to get hired?
No. Camden CFD and most county departments do not have residency requirements. You can live anywhere in New Jersey. However, living in the city or immediate area can be an advantage for your commute and community understanding.

3. What are the shift schedules like?
Standard fire service shifts are common: 24 hours on, 48 hours off (24/48), or sometimes 24/72. This schedule can be demanding but offers significant time off between shifts. Overtime is widely available and can substantially boost your income.

4. Is it safe to live and work in Camden?
As a firefighter, you are trained to work in high-stress environments. For living, it’s like any city: some neighborhoods are safer and more stable than others. Many firefighters choose to live in the suburbs (Pennsauken, Haddonfield) for a quieter home life, which is a personal and financial decision.

5. What’s the best way to prepare for the physical agility test?
The test is based on the CPAT (Candidate Physical Ability Test) or a similar standard. It includes stair climbs, hose drags, equipment carries, and forcible entry simulations. Train with weighted vests, practice running in boots, and focus on full-body strength and endurance. Local gyms and fire academies often offer prep courses.