How Much Do Firefighters Make In New Mexico? Salary & Benefits

Are you curious about how much firefighters earn in New Mexico, especially within a community that values diversity and inclusion? Firefighter salaries in New Mexico vary based on experience, qualifications, and incentives. At gaymexico.net, we provide a comprehensive overview of firefighter compensation, ensuring you have the insights you need to understand this rewarding career path.

1. What Is the Average Firefighter Salary in New Mexico?

The average firefighter salary in New Mexico can vary widely based on several factors, including experience, education, and the specific fire department. According to data, a Firefighter Cadet hired without EMT Basic License can expect to make around $39,211.04 in their first year. Earning potential increases significantly with additional qualifications and experience.

Understanding the nuances of firefighter compensation helps in career planning and financial stability. Let’s explore the different levels and incentives available to firefighters in New Mexico.

2. How Does EMT Certification Affect Firefighter Salaries in New Mexico?

Having an EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) certification can significantly boost a firefighter’s salary in New Mexico. Firefighter Cadets hired with an EMT Basic License can earn more from the start, with potential earnings of approximately $39,458.24 in their first year.

Here’s a breakdown of how EMT certification impacts earnings:

Increased Starting Salary: EMT-certified firefighters typically start at a higher pay grade.
Enhanced Job Opportunities: Many fire departments prefer candidates with EMT or paramedic certifications due to the dual role these professionals play in emergency response.
Potential for Advancement: EMT skills can open doors to specialized roles and promotions within the fire department.

3. What Are the Salary Expectations for Firefighters with Paramedic Licenses in New Mexico?

A paramedic license offers the highest earning potential for firefighters in New Mexico. Firefighter Cadets hired with a Paramedic License can expect to earn around $46,535.36 in their first year.

Here’s why a paramedic license is so valuable:

Advanced Medical Skills: Paramedics are trained to provide advanced life support, making them crucial in emergency situations.
Higher Demand: Fire departments often prioritize hiring paramedics due to their advanced medical capabilities.
Significant Pay Increase: The additional training and responsibilities associated with being a paramedic are reflected in a higher salary.

4. What Incentives Can Firefighters in New Mexico Receive?

Incentives can significantly increase a firefighter’s earnings in New Mexico. These incentives recognize specialized skills, additional responsibilities, and educational achievements.

Here are some common incentives:

Paramedic Assignment Pay: An increase of approximately 9.5% upon assignment to an ALS (Advanced Life Support) unit, with an additional 3.5% when assigned to a transport-capable ALS unit.
Wildland Pay: Approximately $32.50 per month for firefighters involved in wildland firefighting.
Bilingual Skill Pay: Approximately $20.00 per month for firefighters proficient in multiple languages.
Academic Reimbursement Plan: Up to $1,800 per year towards college tuition.
Academic Incentive Pay: $1 per month for every college credit earned (e.g., 60 credit hours = $60 per month).

These incentives can substantially increase a firefighter’s overall compensation, rewarding them for their dedication and expertise.

5. What Benefits Do Firefighters in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Receive?

Firefighters in Albuquerque, New Mexico, receive a comprehensive benefits package that enhances their overall compensation and provides security for their future.

Key benefits include:

Retirement: 25-year retirement plan at 75% of the highest 5 years’ earnings.
Health and Dental Insurance: Complete health and dental coverage, with the city contributing 80% of the costs.
Leave Accrual: 144 hours of annual sick leave and 144-240 hours of annual vacation.
Gym Membership: Free gym access to promote physical fitness.
Paid Holidays: 13 paid holidays per year.
Educational Opportunities: GI Benefit Eligible Accredited Academy, on-duty professional development courses, and cadet program IFSAC testing.
Peer Fitness: Free training and testing to maintain fitness standards.
Annual Physical: NFPA 1582 compliant physical examination.

These benefits demonstrate the city’s commitment to supporting its firefighters’ health, well-being, and professional growth.

6. How Does Longevity Pay Affect Firefighter Salaries in New Mexico?

Longevity pay rewards firefighters for their continuous service and dedication to their careers. This supplement is paid in bi-weekly installments and is applied toward the firefighter’s highest 5-year earnings.

Here’s how longevity pay increases over time:

Years of Service	Annual FY 2025	Annual FY 2026 & 2027
Completion of Probation to 4 years	$1,950 ($75 bi-weekly)	$2,600 ($100 bi-weekly)
Beginning 5 to 7 years	$2,340 ($90 bi-weekly)	$3,250 ($125 bi-weekly)
Beginning 8 to 11 years	$3,250 ($125 bi-weekly)	$3,900 ($150 bi-weekly)
Beginning 12 to 14 years	$4,160 ($160 bi-weekly)	$5,200 ($200 bi-weekly)
Beginning 15 to 17 years	$6,240 ($240 bi-weekly)	$6,240 ($240 bi-weekly)
Beginning 18 to 21 years	$13,130 ($505 bi-weekly)	$13,130 ($505 bi-weekly)
Beginning 22 to 24 years	$14,430 ($555 bi-weekly)	$14,430 ($555 bi-weekly)
Beginning 25 years and beyond	$16,770 ($645 bi-weekly)	$16,770 ($645 bi-weekly)

Longevity pay not only increases a firefighter’s current earnings but also enhances their retirement benefits, making it a valuable incentive for long-term commitment.

7. What Continuing Education Opportunities Are Available to Firefighters in New Mexico?

Continuing education is essential for firefighters to stay updated with the latest techniques and best practices. Albuquerque Fire Rescue provides all required continuing education (CE) courses annually, paid for by the department.

Here are the CE hours provided for different levels:

Paramedic: 60 hours (valued at $600)
Intermediate/Advanced: 50 hours (valued at $500)
Basic: 40 hours (valued at $400)

These courses are completed on-duty, eliminating the need for firefighters to attend external conferences or seminars. This commitment to ongoing education ensures that Albuquerque firefighters are well-prepared and highly skilled.

8. What Career Training and Specialty Divisions Can Firefighters Join in New Mexico?

Firefighters in New Mexico have access to various career training opportunities and specialty divisions, allowing them to expand their knowledge and specialize in areas of interest.

Specialty divisions include:

Hazardous Materials Task Force: Responds to incidents involving hazardous materials.
Heavy Technical Rescue Task Force: Handles complex rescue operations.
Wildland Division: Focuses on fighting wildfires and managing wildland areas.
Technical Services: Provides technical support and expertise.
Dispatch: Manages emergency communications.
Arson: Investigates the causes of fires.

These divisions offer on-duty training, allowing firefighters to enhance their skills and contribute to specialized areas of emergency response.

9. What Gear and Equipment Are Provided to Firefighters in New Mexico?

Albuquerque Fire Rescue provides its firefighters with all necessary gear and equipment, ensuring they are well-prepared and protected while on duty.

Provided gear includes:

Station/Duty Nomex Uniforms: Valued at $1123.
Station Boots: Valued at $126.
Structural Firefighting Gear and Mask: Valued at $2860.
Wildland Gear: Valued at $382.
Whites Boots: Valued at $220.

This comprehensive provision of gear ensures that firefighters are safe and professional in all aspects of their work.

10. What Additional Training Courses Are Offered to Firefighters in Albuquerque?

Albuquerque Fire Rescue offers several free on-duty courses through the American Heart Association, enhancing firefighters’ skills in emergency medical care.

Available courses include:

Basic Life Support (BLS): Valued at $60.
Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS): Valued at $110.
Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS): Valued at $110.
BLS Instructor: Valued at $170.
ACLS Instructor: Valued at $180.
PALS Instructor: Valued at $180.

These courses enable firefighters to provide high-quality medical care in emergency situations, improving patient outcomes and community safety.

11. How Does Albuquerque Fire Rescue Support Firefighters in Becoming Paramedics?

Albuquerque Fire Rescue (AFR) supports its firefighters in becoming licensed paramedics by offering two options for paramedic school.

Here are the options:

University of New Mexico: A 10-month accelerated program sponsored by the University of New Mexico School of Medicine, with a 40-hour work week.
Central New Mexico Community College: A 15-month, 5-term in-person program with a hybrid option. It is a full-time course, 40 hours per week, and awards an AAS degree upon successful completion.

AFR pays its employees to attend these programs, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing the skills and capabilities of its firefighting force. This investment benefits both the firefighters and the community they serve.

12. What Are the Key Features of the Benefits Package for Firefighters in Albuquerque?

The benefits package for firefighters in Albuquerque is designed to support their long-term well-being and professional growth.

Key features include:

25-year Retirement at 75%: Firefighters can retire after 25 years of service with 75% of their highest 5 years’ earnings.
Complete Health and Dental Insurance: The city contributes 80% towards health and dental insurance premiums.
Generous Leave Accrual: Firefighters accrue 144 hours of annual sick leave and 144-240 hours of annual vacation.
Free Gym Membership: Access to free gym facilities to maintain physical fitness.
Paid Holidays: 13 paid holidays per year.
Educational Benefits: GI Benefit Eligible Accredited Academy and opportunities for on-duty professional development.
Peer Fitness Program: Free training and testing to support physical fitness.
Annual NFPA 1582 Compliant Physical: Regular physical examinations to ensure health and fitness.

These benefits highlight the city’s dedication to supporting its firefighters throughout their careers and into retirement.

13. How Does the Cadet Program Benefit Aspiring Firefighters in Albuquerque?

The Cadet Program in Albuquerque is designed to provide aspiring firefighters with the training and skills they need to succeed.

Benefits of the Cadet Program include:

IFSAC Testing: Cadets receive IFSAC (International Fire Service Accreditation Congress) testing, ensuring they meet industry standards.
On-Duty Professional Development: Opportunities for professional development courses while on duty.
Two-Year Promotional Cycles: Regular promotional opportunities based on performance and experience.
Comprehensive Training: The program provides comprehensive training in firefighting techniques, emergency medical services, and other essential skills.

This program is an excellent pathway for individuals looking to start a career in firefighting and gain a solid foundation for future advancement.

14. How Does Peer Fitness Support Enhance the Well-Being of Firefighters in Albuquerque?

The Peer Fitness program in Albuquerque supports firefighters by providing free training and testing to help them maintain their physical fitness. This program recognizes the importance of physical health in the demanding profession of firefighting.

Key aspects of the Peer Fitness program include:

Free Training: Access to training resources and programs designed to improve strength, endurance, and overall fitness.
Regular Testing: Regular fitness assessments to monitor progress and identify areas for improvement.
Peer Support: A supportive environment where firefighters can encourage and motivate each other to stay fit.

This program enhances the well-being of firefighters, reduces the risk of injury, and improves their ability to perform their duties effectively.

15. What Is the Significance of Longevity Pay for Firefighters in Albuquerque?

Longevity pay in Albuquerque is a significant benefit that rewards firefighters for their long-term commitment to the fire service. This supplement is paid in bi-weekly installments and is applied toward the firefighter’s highest 5-year earnings, enhancing both current income and retirement benefits.

The significance of longevity pay includes:

Recognition of Service: It acknowledges and rewards firefighters for their years of dedication and service to the community.
Increased Earnings: The additional income helps firefighters meet their financial goals and improve their quality of life.
Enhanced Retirement Benefits: Longevity pay contributes to the calculation of retirement benefits, ensuring a more secure financial future.

This benefit underscores the city’s appreciation for its firefighters and incentivizes them to remain committed to their careers.

16. How Does Albuquerque Fire Rescue Ensure Firefighters Stay Updated with the Latest EMS Protocols?

Albuquerque Fire Rescue ensures that its firefighters stay updated with the latest EMS (Emergency Medical Services) protocols by providing comprehensive continuing education (CE) courses annually. These courses are paid for by the department and completed on-duty, eliminating the need for firefighters to attend external conferences or seminars.

Key features of this approach include:

On-Duty Training: CE courses are integrated into the firefighters’ work schedule, making it convenient and accessible.
Comprehensive Curriculum: The curriculum covers the latest advancements in emergency medical care, ensuring firefighters are well-prepared to handle a variety of medical emergencies.
Experienced Instructors: Courses are taught by experienced instructors who are experts in their fields.

This commitment to ongoing education ensures that Albuquerque firefighters provide the highest quality medical care to the community.

17. What Types of Career Training Are Available for Firefighters in Albuquerque?

Albuquerque Fire Rescue offers a wide range of career training opportunities, allowing firefighters to specialize in different areas of emergency response. These training opportunities are available on-duty, making it easier for firefighters to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Types of career training include:

Hazardous Materials Task Force: Training in the identification, handling, and mitigation of hazardous materials incidents.
Heavy Technical Rescue Task Force: Training in complex rescue techniques, including structural collapse, confined space rescue, and high-angle rescue.
Wildland Division: Training in wildland firefighting tactics, including fire suppression, prevention, and mitigation.
Technical Services: Training in the maintenance and operation of specialized equipment and technologies used in firefighting and rescue operations.
Dispatch: Training in emergency communications, including call taking, dispatching resources, and coordinating emergency responses.
Arson: Training in fire investigation techniques, including evidence collection, scene analysis, and interviewing witnesses.

These diverse training opportunities enable firefighters to develop specialized skills and contribute to the fire department in various capacities.

18. How Does Albuquerque Fire Rescue Support Firefighters’ Physical Well-Being?

Albuquerque Fire Rescue prioritizes the physical well-being of its firefighters through various initiatives, including a free gym membership, a Peer Fitness program, and an annual NFPA 1582 compliant physical examination.

Here’s how these initiatives support firefighters’ physical health:

Free Gym Membership: Provides access to gym facilities and equipment, encouraging firefighters to engage in regular exercise and maintain their fitness levels.
Peer Fitness Program: Offers free training and testing to help firefighters improve their strength, endurance, and overall fitness. This program fosters a supportive environment where firefighters can encourage and motivate each other to stay fit.
Annual NFPA 1582 Compliant Physical Examination: Ensures that firefighters receive regular medical evaluations to assess their health and fitness levels. These examinations help identify potential health issues early on and provide firefighters with guidance on how to improve their health and well-being.

These initiatives demonstrate Albuquerque Fire Rescue’s commitment to supporting the physical health and well-being of its firefighters, ensuring they are fit and ready to respond to emergencies.

19. What Opportunities Are Available for Firefighters in Albuquerque to Advance Their Careers?

Firefighters in Albuquerque have numerous opportunities to advance their careers through promotional cycles, specialized training, and continuing education. The fire department is committed to providing its members with the resources and support they need to reach their full potential.

Opportunities for career advancement include:

Promotional Cycles: Regular promotional cycles allow firefighters to advance through the ranks based on their performance, experience, and qualifications.
Specialized Training: Training in various specialized areas, such as hazardous materials, technical rescue, and wildland firefighting, can lead to opportunities to join specialized units and take on new responsibilities.
Continuing Education: Continuing education courses, including EMS certifications and instructor courses, enhance firefighters’ skills and knowledge, making them more competitive for promotions and specialized assignments.
Leadership Development Programs: Programs designed to develop leadership skills and prepare firefighters for leadership roles within the fire department.

These opportunities enable firefighters to grow professionally, take on new challenges, and make a greater impact on the community they serve.

20. What Role Does Continuing Education Play in the Career of a Firefighter in New Mexico?

Continuing education is a crucial component of a firefighter’s career in New Mexico. It ensures that firefighters stay up-to-date with the latest techniques, technologies, and best practices in firefighting and emergency medical services. Albuquerque Fire Rescue recognizes the importance of continuing education and provides its members with ample opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge.

The role of continuing education includes:

Maintaining Certification: Many certifications, such as EMT and paramedic certifications, require ongoing continuing education to maintain their validity.
Improving Skills: Continuing education courses help firefighters improve their skills in various areas, such as firefighting tactics, rescue techniques, and emergency medical care.
Staying Informed: Continuing education keeps firefighters informed about the latest advancements in firefighting and emergency medical services, ensuring they are using the most effective and up-to-date methods.
Advancing Career: Continuing education can help firefighters advance their careers by making them more competitive for promotions and specialized assignments.

By prioritizing continuing education, Albuquerque Fire Rescue ensures that its firefighters are well-prepared to respond to emergencies and provide the best possible service to the community.

The salaries and benefits for firefighters in New Mexico are competitive and provide a stable and rewarding career path. For more detailed information and resources, visit gaymexico.net, where you can find comprehensive guides, community support, and travel tips tailored to the LGBTQ+ community in Mexico.

FAQ: Firefighter Salaries in New Mexico

1. What is the starting salary for a firefighter in New Mexico?

The starting salary for a firefighter in New Mexico varies based on qualifications and certifications, typically around $39,211.04 for a Firefighter Cadet without an EMT Basic License.

2. How much more can a firefighter earn with an EMT certification in New Mexico?

A firefighter with an EMT Basic License can start earning around $39,458.24 in their first year, higher than those without the certification.

3. What is the highest salary a firefighter can earn with a paramedic license in New Mexico?

Firefighter Cadets with a Paramedic License can expect to earn around $46,535.36 in their first year, making it the highest starting salary.

4. What are some common incentives that can increase a firefighter’s salary in New Mexico?

Common incentives include Paramedic Assignment Pay, Wildland Pay, Bilingual Skill Pay, Academic Reimbursement Plan, and Academic Incentive Pay.

5. What benefits do firefighters in Albuquerque, New Mexico, receive?

Firefighters in Albuquerque receive a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, health and dental insurance, leave accrual, free gym membership, and paid holidays.

6. How does longevity pay affect a firefighter’s salary in New Mexico?

Longevity pay increases with years of service, providing additional income and enhancing retirement benefits.

7. What continuing education opportunities are available for firefighters in New Mexico?

Albuquerque Fire Rescue provides all required continuing education courses annually, paid for by the department, including courses for paramedics, intermediate/advanced, and basic levels.

8. What types of career training can firefighters access in New Mexico?

Firefighters in New Mexico can access career training in specialized divisions such as Hazardous Materials Task Force, Heavy Technical Rescue Task Force, and Wildland Division.

9. What gear and equipment are provided to firefighters in New Mexico?

Firefighters are provided with all necessary gear and equipment, including station/duty Nomex uniforms, station boots, structural firefighting gear, wildland gear, and whites boots.

10. How does Albuquerque Fire Rescue support firefighters in becoming paramedics?

Albuquerque Fire Rescue offers two options for paramedic school, paying its employees to attend the University of New Mexico or Central New Mexico Community College.

Ready to explore a career in firefighting or discover more about LGBTQ+ friendly destinations in Mexico? Visit gaymexico.net for guides, travel tips, and community resources.