Firefighter Apprenticeship in North Dakota

The $53,660 median for North Dakota Firefighters tracks close to the national all-occupation average. The value here is in the apprenticeship model: earn while you learn, graduate debt-free.

The $53,660 median trails the national average by 10%. North Dakota is a below-average market for Firefighter wages, though placement rates and union presence matter as much as raw pay.

Looking ahead to 2034, Firefighter employment should expand by 3.4%. That translates to roughly 27,100 openings annually when you factor in retirements — enough to absorb most apprenticeship completers.

With 750 Firefighters employed (0.2% of the U.S. total), North Dakota is a smaller market for this trade. Apprenticeship seekers may find limited local options and should explore neighboring states.

Hybrid apprenticeships for Firefighters combine the structure of time-based training with the flexibility of competency milestones. Plan on 2 years, though strong performers in emergency protocols, physical fitness standards, and certification exams sometimes finish earlier.

Program availability in North Dakota is moderate: 149 registered sponsors across the state. Apprenticeship applicants in major cities will find multiple options; those in smaller markets may need to commute or relocate within the state.

From $37,950 at the 10th percentile to $74,610 at the 90th, Firefighter wages in North Dakota are fairly compressed. Flat wage structures are common in heavily unionized trades where pay scales are negotiated collectively.