Public service motivation, job satisfaction and burnout among firefighters: are there differences between the military-oriented and career-oriented?

Purpose This study makes a significant contribution by investigating the human resource management and mental health dimensions of firefighters in China, a group that has been rarely studied. Design/methodology/approach This study investigated the correlations between public service motivation (PSM), job satisfaction and burnout among Chinese firefighters by analyzing 776 questionnaire surveys from two provinces. Findings We found that career-oriented firefighters had higher public service motivation and job satisfaction and lower burnout than military-oriented members. Regression models reveal no significant difference in job satisfaction between the two groups; however, a significant difference in burnout is observed, with the military-oriented group exhibiting slightly higher levels. In the mediation analysis, job satisfaction plays a mediating role between PSM and burnout, with consistent results across all groups. Originality/value This paper contributes to current knowledge on PSM and career development in the emergency management workforce.