Fire Engineer / Driver Salary (2025)
Engineers operate apparatus, manage pump operations, and keep equipment ready. Driver incentives and overtime climb as departments rely on engineered staffing.
- 8–12% over firefighterPromotion differential
- Aerial operator +$4,200Top stipend
- 48/96 or 24/48Common schedule
- 3–5 years before promotionTypical experience
Where Fire Engineer / Drivers earn the most
Coastal metros with strong union contracts, specialty team incentives, and cost-of-living adjustments lead compensation. Use these comparables to inform negotiations and career moves.
Top-paying states pair higher base wages with large overtime budgets. Consider total compensation, not just salary, when benchmarking offers.
90th percentile $129,500
San José-Sunnyvale · Engineer differential + wildland deployment stipends.
View state ladder90th percentile $103,800
Denver-Aurora · Rapid growth and high-altitude apparatus premiums.
90th percentile $107,800
Austin-Round Rock · Driver operator academy and specialty team pay.
View state ladderSalary by state
Compare compensation across leading states. Bars show median base pay; hover notes capture overtime share and hiring highlights.
Lateral operator bonus $12,000
Driver academy May 2025 · aerial incentive 6%
Mountain response stipend $2,500
Casino tax revenue funds specialty pay
Driver operator process February 2025
Promotion register valid through 2026
Career responsibilities
Driver / apparatus operations
- Safely drive and position engines, trucks, and specialized apparatus for suppression and rescue.
- Perform pump operations, relay water supply, and manage aerial device deployment.
- Lead apparatus inspections, maintenance scheduling, and equipment replacement tracking.
- Mentor firefighters on engineer competencies and assist with company-level training.
Frequently asked questions
Use these talking points during budget presentations, union briefings, or career counseling sessions.
Do engineers stay on one apparatus?
Most departments assign engineers to specific rigs but rotate during shortages. Cross-staffing between engine, truck, or rescue can increase specialty pay.
Is engineer pay pensionable?
Engineer differentials are typically pensionable because they become part of base pay once promoted, unlike temporary assignment bonuses.
How competitive are engineer exams?
Promotional lists remain competitive. Candidates complete driver/operator certification, pump calculations, and scenario-based practical exams.
Sources & citations
Each data point references an official contract, pay plan, or survey. Cite these documents when validating compensation budgets.
- NFPA 1002 Driver/Operator Professional Qualifications · 2024 Edition
- San José Fire Department Lateral Operator Bulletin · January 2025
- Denver Fire Department Pay Ordinance · FY 2025
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