Is it hard for a firefighter to get a job if he moves to a different state?

Question

I know that most guys have to wait on lists for years, is it the same with firefighters that move to another state and try to get work in that state?

Answer 1

You only wait on a list if you are looking for a job with a larger department (i.e FDNY, SAFD etc.)

Make sure if you paln on moving that the state you are moving to, will give you reciprocity for your training and certification from the state you are leaving.

There are small departments everywhere that don't have lists, but probably don't pay as well either.

Answer 2

If you have experience, it probably wouldn't be too hard to find a job in the field. It would depend on where you're moving to, though, and their need and supply of fire fighters.

You might want to have someone in a management position at your present station call the department in the new place and have them do an introduction of you. This would probably help you get fast tracked.