Oregon Firefighter Salary (2026) – Pay Scale, Overtime Rules, Benefits & Verified Comparison
Oregon firefighter compensation is best compared using department pay scales and policies you can verify: rank/step plan, schedule structure, overtime rules, and benefit deductions. This prevents misleading comparisons based on averages.
Compare all states (Hub)Salary Comparison Tool
Decision rule: match the same rank/step and schedule assumptions, then compare overtime rules and deductions.
What Drives Pay in Oregon
- Rank/step plan: steps, longevity items, and promotions define the range.
- Schedule design: overtime calculation and premium rules impact annual totals.
- Overtime policy: callbacks/holdovers, assignment method, and caps determine realistic overtime.
- Benefits/deductions: retirement and healthcare contributions shape take-home pay.
Overtime and Incentives: What to Verify
- How overtime is assigned and whether it is capped
- Callback/holdover minimum paid time
- Any specialty or certification incentives (if offered)
How to Compare Two Oregon Departments
- Match rank/step (probation vs top step).
- Confirm schedule and overtime calculation method.
- Estimate realistic overtime based on policy and staffing.
- Subtract deductions.
- Compare purchasing power using local costs.
FAQ
What is the best source for Oregon pay scales?
Official department or city/county HR pay scales plus any posted documentation that describes overtime and benefits.
Why does take-home pay differ from base salary?
Deductions (retirement and healthcare) and overtime policy differences can materially change net pay.
