Career
Fire Lieutenant Salary In California 2024
Learn everything you need to know about becoming a Fire Lieutenant, including salary, schools, and programs.
Fire Lieutenant Salary in California
Annual Median: $136,040
Hourly Median: $65.4
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Annual and Hourly Fire Lieutenant California Salary Table:
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 10th | $81,560 | $39.21 |
| 25th | $97,540 | $46.89 |
| Median | $136,040 | $65.4 |
| 75th | $168,000 | $80.77 |
| 90th | $180,670 | $86.86 |
Best Schools to become a Fire Lieutenant in California 2024
Victor Valley College
In-State Tuition:$1,402
Out-of-State Tuition:$10,102
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:24%
Total Enrollment:12,648
Santa Rosa Junior College
In-State Tuition:$1,242
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,234
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:31%
Total Enrollment:15,552
Palomar College
In-State Tuition:$1,288
Out-of-State Tuition:$10,584
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:31%
Total Enrollment:17,655
Moreno Valley College
In-State Tuition:$1,380
Out-of-State Tuition:$11,340
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:24%
Total Enrollment:9,095
Butte College
In-State Tuition:$1,104
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,584
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:34%
Total Enrollment:9,362
Crafton Hills College
In-State Tuition:$1,104
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,864
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:34%
Total Enrollment:5,113
Browse Fire Lieutenant Salaries by the Top Cities in California
Fire Lieutenant Salary in California FAQs
What are the typical responsibilities of a Fire Lieutenant in California?
- A Fire Lieutenant oversees the operations of a fire company, including the management of personnel and resources.
- They are responsible for training firefighters, administering first aid or emergency medical care, and ensuring safety protocols are followed.
- Fire Lieutenants also participate in fire prevention and safety education, conduct drills, and may engage with the community.
How does the salary progression work for Fire Lieutenants?
- Generally, Fire Lieutenants can expect salary increases based on factors such as longevity in service, promotions, and additional certifications.
- Many fire departments also offer step increases according to a predetermined schedule, allowing for gradual salary advancement over the years.
- Performance evaluations may also play a role in potential raises and promotions, influencing your salary trajectory.
What factors influence the salary of a Fire Lieutenant in California?
- Geographic location within California can significantly impact salary, with urban areas typically offering higher compensation than rural regions.
- The size and budget of the fire department and its policies on pay scales will also affect salary levels.
- Years of experience, level of education, and additional certifications or specializations are key factors that can enhance earning potential.
Are there opportunities for overtime for Fire Lieutenants?
- Yes, Fire Lieutenants often have the opportunity to earn overtime due to the nature of emergency services, which can require extra hours during large incidents or training events.
- Many fire departments offer overtime as a standard practice, and availability can vary based on department needs and staffing levels.
Do Fire Lieutenants receive benefits apart from their salary?
- Fire Lieutenants typically receive a benefits package that may include health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and educational incentives.
- Many departments offer additional perks such as wellness programs, uniform allowances, and promotions for continued education or training.
How does the rank of Fire Lieutenant compare to other positions within the fire department?
- Fire Lieutenants are mid-level supervisors, positioned above firefighters and below captains and other higher-ranking officers.
- This rank comes with increased responsibility for both personnel management and operational decision-making during incidents, distinguishing it from other positions like firefighter or engineer.
What is the educational requirement for becoming a Fire Lieutenant in California?
- While a high school diploma is the minimum requirement, many fire departments prefer or require candidates to obtain an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in fire science or a related field.
- Additional training through fire academy programs and completion of advanced certifications, such as Command Training or Leadership courses, can enhance job prospects and potential salary.