Idaho Firefighter Salary (2026) – Pay Scale, Overtime Rules, Benefits & Comparison Checklist
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Idaho firefighter compensation can vary by department pay scale, schedule design, overtime policy, and benefit deductions. This guide helps you compare departments using information you can verify directly—without relying on unqualified averages.
Idaho Pay Drivers You Should Verify
- Rank & step plan: confirm probation pay, step increases, and promotion differentials.
- Schedule structure: clarify how hours are counted and how premium time is applied.
- Overtime rules: assignment method and minimums determine realistic earning potential.
- Benefits & deductions: retirement and healthcare contributions affect take-home pay.
Overtime and Specialty Pay: What to Ask
- Is overtime offered by rotation, seniority, or supervisor assignment?
- What are callback/holdover minimums and how are they paid?
- Are there caps, approvals, or comp-time options?
- Are there incentives for certifications or specialty roles?
Benefits and Total Compensation
Request benefit summaries and employee contribution rates. A department with similar base pay can produce different net pay depending on deductions and benefit design.
Quick Comparison Checklist
- Match rank/step across departments.
- Confirm schedule and overtime calculation method.
- Estimate realistic overtime based on staffing policy.
- Subtract retirement and healthcare deductions.
- Compare recurring living costs where you plan to live.
FAQ
Is it better to compare Idaho pay by state or by department?
Department-level comparisons are more accurate because pay scales, overtime rules, and deductions are set locally.
What documents should I request?
Ask for the current pay scale, overtime policy summary, and benefit deduction details (retirement and healthcare contribution rates).
