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Permalink Reply by Brian Dumser on August 28, 2008 at 12:47pm

Can you give us a hint at what the actual $$$ figures are, and what kind of hoops you have to jump through to get over there? I'm thinking about giving it a try.

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Permalink Reply by Xterrasaint on August 28, 2008 at 1:31pm

Actual $$$ amounts fluctuate from year to year. It is all dependent upon staffing, work assignments, and overtime based on the previous two. Your pay checks are also broken down between US $( direct deposited into your US bank account) and a Foreign Area Living Allowance or FALA. This is money direct deposited into a Kuwait bank account in Kuwaiti Dinars (KD) that is for you to use on the local economy. I.E. money to spend at local stores, groceries, entertainment etc...
This money shows up as a deduction from your bi-weekly check. It's the equivalent of $480 every two weeks.

My first year I grossed $94k. Deduct about $12K for this FALA, insurance, fuel deductions ( about $300) and any child support deductions. I netted around 70K.
This year I am on par (if I stay until 31 DEC.) for a Gross $105K year. I know that this figure sounds like a great deal for a firefighter. There are many here that come here and get sucked in. They claim the money is better here than in the states, no taxes ( not true anymore...Jan 1 2009 the feds are deducting FICA,plus you've always been subject to state taxes) and high cost of living in the states. For me, my time here is drawing to a close. As with any other job, the company likes to feed you the pretty picture.The reality is much different once you see how everything really works. All of the contract companies promise the moon. I've yet to hear about one that actually delivers.

The bottom line is the contract world is all what you make of it. IF you can come over here and follow the "Shut up and take the money" mindset, you'll be fine.If not, your time here may be a constant reminder that the money is not bad, but not worth the rest of the BS.

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Permalink Reply by Melinda on September 22, 2008 at 10:49pm

I am thinking about leaving a career firefighting job in Idaho for Irag to work for wackenhut. I make about 25,000 take home. I think the kind of money I would make in a year would do so much for me. I am really good with my money and always get way ahead when I get it. I added it all up and 1 year there would be about 4 years here. I would be 4 years ahead. I also love to travel. What can I say, I think the adventure sounds good. I have 8 years experience as a firefighter, driver, hazmat tech. Im female with no husband and no kids I am leaving. Do I give up a full time job? Some advice anyone? Mel

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Permalink Reply by Brian Dumser on September 23, 2008 at 5:57pm

I say go for it. I've been thinking about the same thing. I've got 14 years experience as a part-time Firefighter/EMT. I'd be taking a 1 year leave of absence from the F.D. as well as my regular job, but like you said, the money would put me ahead. Unlike you, I would be leaving behind a wife and 3 sons. You're already way ahead of me with no husband or kids to worry about. Good luck, and maybe I'll see you over there. Stay safe!

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Permalink Reply by andrew on October 5, 2008 at 10:08am

Hi I would very much like to get involved in Firefighting somewhere overseas like you do. Would you be able to give me some information on how to get hired and what companys to contact and such. im interested. in firefighter and EMS any info would be great thanks

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Permalink Reply by Robert on October 5, 2008 at 11:51am

Ok I just recently got a job offer with wackenhut. I did not pursue it due to my current situation. But it would be worth looking into.

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Permalink Reply by lutan1 on October 6, 2008 at 2:21am

It's too late now (Applicaitons have now closed) but the DSE here in Australia advertises every year for seasonal firefighters. May be food for though for next year. No idea about the restrictions- may only be open to Australian residents.

Go to http://tinyurl.com/5cbafp for more info

Applicaitons are sought every year for the following:
firefighters (including operators)
hover exit crews
rappel crews

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Permalink Reply by Brian Dumser on October 6, 2008 at 5:08pm

Thanks Lutan, maybe I'll look into that for next year. Do I have to speak Australian? LOL

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Permalink Reply by lutan1 on October 6, 2008 at 5:17pm

Bloody oath ya' do mate!

Crikey, ya' wouldn't expect anythn' less would ya'?

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Permalink Reply by lutan1 on October 10, 2008 at 12:56am

The Country Fire Authority (CFA) here in Victoria, Australia, is now recruiting for career staff.

More detials at http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/joining/career_ff/index.htm

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Permalink Reply by Tony P on October 11, 2008 at 1:28am

The DSE seasonals are wildfire dry firefighters (mainly). If you're after a working holiday, this might be for you. No idea about their requirements though, follow lutan's link, or go direct to www.dse.vic.gov.au/ and have a look around.

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Permalink Reply by Tony P on October 11, 2008 at 1:35am

For the OP, CFA in Victoria Australia are FF only, no EMT. Like the US city FD's, we have hundreds appplying for each position. But follow the link, have a read and get in touch with them, there may be something for you!

The other structural firefighting organisation in Victoria is the Metropolitan Fire Brigade, also recruiting, try http://www.mfb.vic.gov.au/default.asp?casid=815 This organisation does 1st Responder work, but nothing further in the EMT area.

For EMT in Victoria, have a look at http://www.ambulance-vic.com.au/ That's the State emergency ambulance service (paramedic and MICA paramedic mainly); there are private companies that do patient transport service.

Oh, and we may not pay as well as those gulf states, but it's a damn sight safer here! Give it a go, nothing ventured, nothing gained!

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