Wisconsin Firefighter Salary (2026) – Pay Scale, Overtime Rules, Benefits & Verified Comparison
Wisconsin firefighter compensation should be compared using verified department pay scales (rank/step), schedule structure, overtime rules, and benefit deductions. This guide provides a methodical comparison framework without relying on uncertain averages.
Compare all states (Hub)Salary Comparison Tool
Best practice: request the current pay scale and benefits summary from each department you’re comparing.
What Drives Pay in Wisconsin
- Rank/step plan: steps and promotions define the compensation range.
- Schedule design: overtime calculation and premium rules affect annual totals.
- Overtime policy: assignment method, callback/holdover minimums, and caps shape realistic overtime.
- Benefits/deductions: retirement and healthcare contributions influence net pay.
Overtime and Incentives: What to Verify
- How overtime is assigned and typical availability
- Callback/holdover minimum paid time
- Any incentives for certifications or specialty roles (if offered)
How to Compare Two Wisconsin Departments
- Match rank/step.
- Confirm schedule and overtime calculation method.
- Estimate realistic overtime based on policy/staffing.
- Subtract deductions.
- Compare purchasing power using local costs.
FAQ
Where can I verify Wisconsin firefighter pay?
Use official department or city/county HR pay scales and any posted documentation covering overtime rules and benefits.
Why are “average salary” figures often misleading?
They rarely account for schedule differences, overtime rules, and benefit deductions that determine take-home value.
