Firefighter in Kearney, NE

The Salary Picture: Where Kearney Stands

Let's get straight to the numbers, because that's the foundation of any career move. Firefighting isn't a get-rich-quick profession anywhere, but in Kearney, the math can work if you understand the local landscape. The median salary for Firefighters in Kearney is $55,474/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $26.67/hour. This puts you slightly below the national average of $57,120/year, but when you factor in Kearney's cost of living, that gap narrows significantly. There are about 68 jobs in the metro area for firefighters, with a projected 10-year job growth of 4%. This isn't explosive growth, but it's stable—Kearney isn't a boomtown, but the fire service here is deeply entrenched and steady.

Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you can expect to earn based on experience. These are estimates based on local pay scales and state averages, as specific department ladders can vary.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Notes
Entry-Level (Probationary Firefighter)	$42,000 - $48,000	Starting pay is modest. Expect to start on the bottom rung, often as a probationary firefighter after academy.
Mid-Level (3-7 years, Firefighter/EMT)	$52,000 - $60,000	You’re near the median salary here. This is where most firefighters land after proving themselves.
Senior-Level (Firefighter/Paramedic or Lieutenant)	$62,000 - $75,000	Specializing as a paramedic or promoting to lieutenant is key to bumping your pay.
Expert/Management (Battalion Chief, Fire Marshal)	$75,000+	These are leadership roles requiring significant experience and additional certifications.

Compared to other Nebraska cities, Kearney sits in a middle ground. It’s less expensive than Omaha or Lincoln, so that $55,474 goes further. In a larger metro, your salary might be higher, but your rent could easily double. For a firefighter who values a manageable commute and a lower-stress housing market, Kearney's salary-to-cost ratio is attractive.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

So, you’re making the median salary of $55,474. Let's break down what that actually looks like in your bank account each month in Kearney. This is a practical look at your financial reality.

Assumptions:

• Federal & State Taxes (approx.): 22%
• FICA (Social Security & Medicare): 7.65%
• Total Deductions: ~30% ($16,642/year)
• Take-Home Pay: $38,832/year or **$3,236/month**
• Average 1BR Rent: $678/month

Monthly Budget Breakdown:

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	$3,236	After taxes and deductions.
Rent (1BR)	$678	This is the city-wide average. You can find cheaper or more expensive.
Utilities	$150 - $200	Includes electricity, gas, water, sewer, and trash.
Groceries	$300 - $400	For a single person.
Car Payment/Insurance	$400 - $600	Highly variable. Kearney is a driving city.
Fuel	$150 - $200	Commutes are generally short, but you'll drive for errands.
Health Insurance	$100 - $200	Often a good portion is covered by the department, but not always.
Retirement/SAVINGS	$200 - $300	CRITICAL. You must plan for the future.
Miscellaneous	$300 - $500	Eating out, entertainment, gear, etc.
Leftover Buffer	$0 - $508	This is your safety net. It's tight but manageable.

Can you afford to buy a home? With the median salary, qualifying for a mortgage is challenging but not impossible, especially if you have a dual-income household. The median home value in Kearney is around $220,000. A 20% down payment is $44,000, which is a significant hurdle on this salary. However, many first-time homebuyer programs exist in Nebraska. With a solid credit score and a disciplined savings plan, buying a starter home (like a 2-bedroom ranch) after a few years is a realistic goal. Renting for the first 2-3 years is the most prudent move.

Where the Jobs Are: Kearney's Major Employers

Kearney's fire service is dominated by the Kearney Volunteer Fire Department (KVFD) and the Kearney City Fire Department. It's a dual system common in Nebraska. The KVFD is a robust, all-volunteer organization that handles a majority of calls in the city and surrounding areas, while the City Department provides full-time, career staffing for the urban core. Many career firefighters in the area start with the KVFD on a volunteer basis while holding another job or while in school, which is an invaluable way to get your foot in the door.

1. Kearney City Fire Department: This is the primary career employer. They operate from several stations (like Station 2 on 2nd Ave and Station 1 on Central Ave). They are the only full-time, paid department in the immediate area. Hiring is competitive and usually happens 1-2 times a year.
2. Kearney Volunteer Fire Department (KVFD): The backbone of the region. They have over 100 members and respond to thousands of calls annually. Volunteering here is often a prerequisite for a career spot on the city side. They offer training and a pathway to employment.
3. Buffalo County Rural Fire Districts: Surrounding areas like the Elm Creek, Amherst, and Pleasanton districts are often looking for volunteers. For those willing to live in the county, this can be a stepping stone.
4. Kearney Regional Medical Center: While not a fire department, this is the primary receiving hospital for all trauma and medical calls. Understanding their protocols and building relationships with ER staff is part of the job. The hospital itself may have safety or EMS-related positions.
5. University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK): UNK has its own campus safety/security, but more importantly, it's a source of potential recruits. Many firefighters in the area are UNK alumni. The campus is also a frequent training site for local fire departments.
6. Nebraska State Fire Marshal: This is a state-level agency with an office in central Nebraska. While not a local response agency, they are a potential career path for firefighters specializing in fire investigation and prevention.
7. Regional EMS: Kearney is a regional hub. While separate from fire departments, many firefighters are cross-trained as EMTs or paramedics. Working for a regional EMS service (like Kearney Regional or another provider) is a common side job or career alternative.

Hiring Trends: Hiring for full-time positions is slow and steady. The 4% growth reflects this. Departments often hire to replace retirees, not necessarily to expand. Being a certified EMT or, even better, a Paramedic, dramatically increases your chances. The volunteer side is always recruiting to maintain its strength.

Getting Licensed in NE

Nebraska has clear requirements managed by the Nebraska State Fire Marshal, Fire Prevention Division. It's not as simple as just applying; you need to meet specific educational and training benchmarks.

1. Basic Requirements: You must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license, and possess a high school diploma or GED. A background check is standard.
2. Firefighter I & II Certification: This is the core requirement. You must complete a state-approved training academy. The most common route is through the Nebraska Firefighter Training Academy (NFTA) in Ashland, NE. This is a 12-week intensive program. Cost: Tuition is approximately $2,500, but many departments sponsor recruits, covering the cost in exchange for a service commitment.
3. EMT-B Certification: For most departments, including the Kearney City FD, being a certified Emergency Medical Technician-Basic is a de facto requirement. You can get this through local programs (often at Central Community College in Kearney or at UNK). Cost: Around $1,200 - $1,500. This adds another 6-8 months of training.
4. Paramedic Certification: This is the game-changer for salary and promotion. It requires an additional 1-2 years of schooling. Cost: Can range from $5,000 to $10,000+. Many firefighters get their EMT first, get hired, and then have the department help pay for Paramedic school.
5. Physical Ability Test (CPAT): You must pass this standardized test. It’s a pass/fail obstacle course that simulates fireground tasks. You should train for it specifically. It's offered several times a year at testing sites across the state.

Timeline to Get Started:

• Months 1-3: Get your EMT-B certification at a local college.
• Months 4-6: Apply to the NFTA fire academy or a department-sponsored academy.
• Months 7-15: Complete Firefighter I/II academy and EMT (if not done concurrently).
• Months 16+: Begin applying for full-time positions with the Kearney City FD or other departments. Insider Tip: Start volunteering with the KVFD while you're in school. It shows commitment and gives you real-world experience.

Best Neighborhoods for Firefighters

Kearney is a compact, easy-to-navigate city. Commutes are short, but some areas offer better lifestyle fits for first responders.

1. East Kearney / "The Hill" (Near UNK):

   • Commute: 5-10 minutes to downtown stations. Easy access to Highway 30.
   • Lifestyle: Quiet, residential, close to the university but not in the middle of student chaos. Good for young professionals or those wanting a suburban feel.
   • Rent (1BR): $650 - $750/month. You'll find more duplexes and older, well-maintained apartment complexes.
   • Insider Tip: This area has good access to the walking/biking trail along the Kearney Canal, perfect for off-duty cardio.

2. Central Kearney / Downtown:

   • Commute: Walking or a 2-minute drive to the main station. The heart of the action.
   • Lifestyle: Urban, walkable. You're near all the restaurants, bars, and the historic downtown. Can be noisier, especially on weekends.
   • Rent (1BR): $600 - $800/month. Older buildings, lofts, and some newer apartments. Parking can be a challenge.
   • Insider Tip: Living downtown means you're always close to your gear and the station for call-outs if you're on a volunteer status.

3. West Kearney (North of Highway 30):

   • Commute: 10-15 minutes. A bit more spread out.
   • Lifestyle: Family-oriented, newer subdivisions, bigger yards. More affordable single-family homes for when you're ready to buy.
   • Rent (1BR): $600 - $700/month. You'll find more modern apartment complexes here.
   • Insider Tip: This area is close to the Lee Simmons Wildlife Refuge and Yanney Heritage Park, great for outdoor downtime.

4. South Kearney (Near the Airport):

   • Commute: 8-12 minutes.
   • Lifestyle: Mix of older homes and new development. Quieter than central, with good access to shopping centers.
   • Rent (1BR): $550 - $700/month. Often the most affordable option for a decent apartment.
   • Insider Tip: This area has quick access to I-80, which is useful if you're responding to calls on the interstate or traveling for training.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A career in Kearney's fire service is about stability and community, not rapid advancement. The 10-year job growth of 4% tells you this is a slow-and-steady environment.

• Specialty Premiums & Overtime: Your base salary is just the start. Overtime is available, especially during major incidents or staffing shortages. Specializing can lead to pay bumps:
  • Hazmat Technician: Requires additional training, often used for regional responses.
  • Technical Rescue (Rope/Confined Space): Another specialty area.
  • Investigator: With the State Fire Marshal's office, a path for experienced firefighters.
  • EMS Leadership: Becoming a Field Training Officer or Shift Supervisor for EMS services.
• Promotion Path: The ladder is typically: Firefighter -> Engineer/Driver -> Lieutenant -> Captain -> Battalion Chief. Each step requires time-in-service, promotional exams, and often a college degree (Associate's or Bachelor's in Fire Science or Public Administration). Insider Tip: Start taking college classes early, even online, while working. Many departments have tuition reimbursement.
• 10-Year Outlook: In a decade, a dedicated firefighter in Kearney who has become a paramedic and promoted to Lieutenant could realistically be earning $75,000 - $85,000. The key is to avoid stagnation. Continue your education, seek out specialties, and be a leader in the department.

The Verdict: Is Kearney Right for You?

Kearney is not for everyone. It's a specific type of place that rewards a specific type of person.

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $55,474 salary stretches far. Rent at $678 is a huge advantage.	Lower Ceiling: Salary and promotion opportunities are limited compared to major metros.
Stable Job Market: The fire service is a pillar of the community. Jobs are secure.	Slower Pace: If you crave big-city action and high call volumes, you may find Kearney slow.
Tight-Knit Community: You're not a number. You'll know everyone—police, ER staff, city officials.	Limited Specialties: Fewer niche opportunities (urban search & rescue, heavy hazmat).
Manageable Commute: You can live anywhere and be at work in 10 minutes.	Social Scene: Limited nightlife and diversity. It's a college town, but it's still Nebraska.
Outdoor Access: Close to hunting, fishing, hiking, and the Platte River.	Weather: Harsh winters with ice and snow can make firefighting challenging.

Final Recommendation:
Kearney is an excellent choice for a firefighter who values quality of life over maximum earnings. If you're looking for a place where you can afford a home, have a short commute, be part of a genuine community, and enjoy the outdoors, this is it. It's ideal for someone with a family who wants stability, or for a young firefighter willing to start in the volunteer ranks to get a foot in the door. If your primary goal is to make the highest possible salary and experience urban firefighting at scale, look to Omaha or Lincoln instead. For the right person, Kearney offers a sustainable, rewarding career.

FAQs

1. Can I get hired as a firefighter in Kearney if I'm not already certified?
Yes, but it's harder. The Kearney City FD generally requires Firefighter I/II and EMT-B before applying. However, the Kearney Volunteer Fire Department (KVFD) is a fantastic place to start. They will train you, and it's the most common path to a full-time job. Many departments also sponsor recruits through the academy.

2. Is it possible to live in Kearney on a single firefighter's salary?
Absolutely. With the median salary of $55,474 and an average 1BR rent of $678, it's very feasible, especially if you budget carefully. It's one of the few places in the U.S. where a single person can afford a decent apartment, a car, and still save money. It's much harder if you have a family on one income.

3. What's the best way to get experience without a full-time job?
Volunteer. The Kearney Volunteer Fire Department is the gold standard here. They run on the same equipment, respond to real emergencies, and provide top-notch training. It's the ultimate "try before you buy" and makes your resume shine. Also, get your EMT-B and work on an ambulance service.

4. What's the weather really like for firefighters?
Kearney has a continental climate. Summers are hot and can have severe thunderstorms. Winters are cold, with significant snow and ice. You'll fight fires in freezing conditions, so you must be prepared for that. The upside: the community really appreciates their firefighters, especially during bad weather events.

5. How do I start the application process today?

1. Contact the Kearney Volunteer Fire Department for an application and information on their next recruitment cycle.
2. Enroll in an EMT-B program at Central Community College or a similar institution.
3. Start training for the CPAT (physical test