Firefighters are heroes who risk their lives daily to protect their communities and keep people safe. They are trained to handle various emergencies, including fires, car accidents, and natural disasters.

While being a firefighter is a rewarding and noble career, it can also be physically and emotionally demanding and may only sometimes provide a steady income. Many firefighters, therefore, choose to supplement their income with side jobs.

There are many side jobs that firefighters can do to earn extra money. These jobs may be related to their training and expertise as firefighters, or they may be completely unrelated. Some firefighters work as freelance firefighters or EMTs on their days off, while others may pursue careers in other fields, such as teaching or coaching.

Regardless of what type of side job a firefighter chooses, it is important to find something that is both personally fulfilling and financially rewarding.

This article will discuss some of the best side jobs firefighters can do for extra money. These jobs are selected based on their potential for income, flexibility, and the skills and experience that firefighters already have.

1. Freelance Firefighting and EMT Work

Freelance firefighting and EMT work as a firefighter or emergency medical technicians on a temporary or contract basis. This work is often undertaken by individuals already employed as full-time firefighters or EMTs but looking to supplement their income by taking on additional shifts or assignments.

Freelance firefighting and EMT work can be a rewarding and flexible way to earn extra money, allowing individuals to take on as much or as little work as they desire. It also allows individuals to gain experience working in different environments and with other teams, which can benefit their career development.

2. Teaching and Coaching

Teaching and coaching are popular side jobs for firefighters, as they allow individuals to share their knowledge and expertise with others while also earning extra income.

Teaching can involve working as an instructor or tutor in various settings, such as schools, community centers, or online. This type of work is often part-time and can involve working with students of all ages and levels of experience.

Coaching, on the other hand, involves working with athletes or teams to help them improve their skills and performance. This work can be done at the amateur or professional level, including coaching a specific sport or activity.

3. Construction and Home Improvement

Construction and home improvement are popular side jobs for firefighters, as they allow individuals to use their skills and knowledge to repair, renovate, or build structures.

Construction work can involve working on various projects, such as building new homes or commercial buildings, remodeling existing structures, or repairing damage caused by natural disasters or accidents. This work requires physical strength, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills.

Home improvement involves repairs or improvements to homes or other residential buildings. This can include painting, tiling, or installing new fixtures. Home improvement work can be done on a contract basis or as part of a larger construction project.

4. Landscaping and Gardening

Landscaping and gardening are popular side jobs for firefighters, as they allow individuals to work outdoors and use their knowledge of plants and gardening techniques to create and maintain beautiful outdoor spaces.

Landscaping work involves designing and installing outdoor features such as trees, shrubs, flowers, and hardscapes (e.g., patios and walkways). This work typically requires physical strength, attention to detail, and creativity.

Gardening involves maintaining gardens or other outdoor spaces, including planting, pruning, and watering plants. Gardening work can be done on a contract basis or as part of a larger landscaping project.

5. Delivery Services

Delivery services are a popular side job for firefighters, as they allow individuals to use their vehicles to transport goods or packages to customers.

Delivery services can involve working for a company specializing in delivering goods, such as courier or food delivery services. These companies typically have specific requirements for their delivery drivers, such as a clean driving record and a reliable vehicle.

Delivery work can also involve working as an independent contractor, using a personal vehicle to deliver goods or packages for various clients. In this case, individuals may be responsible for finding their delivery jobs and managing their schedules.

6. Security Guarding

Security guarding is a popular side job for firefighters, as it allows individuals to use their training and experience to ensure the safety and security of individuals and properties.

Security guarding involves patrolling and monitoring properties or events to prevent incidents such as theft or vandalism. This work may also include responding to emergencies or assisting with evacuations. Security guards may work in various settings, including office buildings, shopping centers, schools, or sporting events.

To work as a security guard, individuals typically need to obtain a state-issued license and may be required to complete training or pass a background check. Security guards may also be required to wear a uniform and carry a badge or other identification.

7. Event Planning and Management

Event planning and management is a popular side job for firefighters, as it allows individuals to use their organizational and communication skills to coordinate and manage events.

Event planning and management involve working with clients to plan and execute events such as weddings, parties, conferences, or festivals. This work typically involves coordinating with vendors, managing budgets, and handling logistics. Event planners may be responsible for booking venues, hiring staff, and arranging transportation and accommodations for attendees.

Individuals may need a background in event planning or a related field to work in event planning and management. They may benefit from having a degree in hospitality or business management. Event planners may also need to be creative and think on their feet, as they may need to solve problems or make quick decisions to ensure that events run smoothly.

8. Photography and Videography

Photography and videography are popular side jobs for firefighters, as these skills can be easily transferred to capturing images and videos of firefighting operations and training exercises. In addition, firefighters may also offer their services for events such as weddings, corporate functions, and other special occasions.

To succeed as a photographer or videographer, it is important to have a strong eye for composition and lighting and the technical skills to operate camera equipment and edit photos or video. It can also be helpful to have a portfolio of past work to show potential clients a clear understanding of your various packages and services.

9. Writing and Editing

Firefighters with a passion for writing and editing may also consider offering their services as freelance writers or editors. This can be a great way to utilize skills such as clear communication, attention to detail, and meeting deadlines.
There are many different niches within the writing and editing field, such as technical writing, creative writing, copywriting, and content editing. It can be helpful to specialize in a particular area to market your services to potential clients better.

10. Consulting

Firefighters with a wealth of knowledge and experience in the field may also consider offering their services as consultants. This could include providing training or guidance to other firefighters, consulting on fire prevention and safety measures for businesses and organizations, or offering expert testimony in legal cases.

To succeed as a consultant, it is important to have a deep understanding of the subject matter and strong communication and problem-solving skills. Having a professional network and access to resources and research to support your recommendations can also be helpful.

Conclusion

Firefighters can do many different types of part-time work to supplement their salary. Jobs in fire prevention education, home safety inspections, emergency medical services (EMT), and paramedic are all in high demand.

To succeed in these secondary job markets, firefighters need resumes that showcase their abilities and expertise.

The professional resume writers at Lancerbee are here to assist firefighters in creating a document that will get them noticed in the hiring process and do justice to their many talents and skills.

A professionally crafted résumé can help firefighters get the side employment they want and need to meet ends.