r/Firefighting • u/Key_Interaction3411 • 7h ago

Ask A Firefighter What’s the merit of one or the other?

Hi all. I’m currently in the process of looking at making the jump from my current job of industrial firefighting to an actual department. Right now I’m in the process of looking between two big departments while I finish up my paramedic school and finishing some other fire classes. I’m looking between south metro Fire Rescue and working as a civilian for the U.S. Air Force as a firefighter. If anyone has worked for either one I’d appreciate a comparative. I’ve tossed both for over a year and would like to hear form the people who work their

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u/sucksatgolf Overpaid janitor 🧹 3h ago

We have an air force base in my first due. They are a full time department. Small roster but still full time, unionized etc. Its not uncommon for them to have no calls for a week or more. I'm sure thats not the same for every base, but you are still limited to what military command wants.

If your a paramedic I'd work somewhere you will use your skills and grow.

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u/Key_Interaction3411 3h ago

I am looking at south metro for that reason as well as their designated Special operations teams like HAZMAT USAR swat medic structural collapse and more.

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u/sucksatgolf Overpaid janitor 🧹 2h ago

I would put yourself in a position to grow and that will be on a bigger department. I also transitioned from an industrial department and I don't miss the boredom at all.

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u/Key_Interaction3411 2h ago

I’m getting a few of my tech level carts out of it but I do want to be the best I can be I want to Learn and grow.

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u/Typical-Efficiency31 1h ago

Maybe get on the job first?

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u/SteveBannonSkinFlake 2h ago

I don’t work for south metro but know a few people there and it seems like a great department to work for. 48/96, relatively slower houses, run quints (kind of a con) but if your a medic you’ll be on the bus most of the time. Rumor on the front range street is they’re not doing too hot financially. Last I heard was they have $50 million shortfall. I’d apply to all the front range departments if you’re set on CO. I’d also apply if any of them are open and not wait until your paramedic is complete.

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u/Key_Interaction3411 2h ago

I plan to test the waters out a bit and go out and do a ride along to see if I like the department at the company level. South metro has been on my short list for 5 years when I got into firefighting.