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Cal Fire Firefighter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... the Murrieta Fire & Rescue Department. The eligibility list established may be used to fill ... To view upcoming Cal-JAC CPAT and FCTC Written Test dates, click here ( Candidates experiencing ...

Faller

Oakhurst, CA ยท Remote

In this position you will be working in conjunction with Cal Fire on specialized tree falling ... Completion of S-130 Firefighter Training * Completion of S-190 Introduction to Fire behavior

Firefighter/Paramedic

Murrieta, CA ยท On-site

$106K - $129K/yr

Murrieta Fire Department, CA Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 2026-23 Department: Murrieta Fire ... To view upcoming Cal-JAC CPAT and FCTC Written Test dates, click here (). * Candidates experiencing ...

Firefighter-Paramedic Recruit

Ventura, CA ยท On-site

$44.49 - $56.78/hr

Firefighter-Paramedic Recruit Recruits attend an 18-week Fire Academy and may participate in ... Obtain a valid Cal-JAC Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) card dated between 08/06/25 and 08/07 ...

Firefighter-Paramedic Recruit Recruits attend an 18-week Fire Academy and may participate in ... Obtain a valid Cal-JAC Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) card dated between 08/06/25 and 08/07 ...

Firefighter-Paramedic Recruit

Ventura, CA ยท On-site

$5.8K - $7.4K/mo

Firefighter-Paramedic Recruits undergo an 18-week fire academy and may undergo additional ... valid Cal-JAC CPAT certificate issued by the Fire Candidate Testing Center (FCTC) or any CPAT ...

General Information

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$58 - $98/hr

Act as the primary liaison with the National Weather Service, Cal Fire, universities, and other research institutions to advance meteorological science and technology. * Support Department Emergency ...

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Showing results 1-20

Cal Fire Firefighter information

See salary details

$28.5K

$59.6K

$100K

How much do cal fire firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for cal fire firefighter in the United States is $59,606.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a firefighter make for CAL FIRE?

A CAL FIRE firefighter's salary typically starts around $3,500 to $4,500 per month, depending on experience, rank, and years of service. Firefighters also receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and overtime pay, with additional compensation for hazardous conditions and extended shifts.

How much do CAL FIRE firefighters make per hour?

Cal Fire firefighters typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, rank, and location. Entry-level firefighters usually start at the lower end, while those with more experience or specialized skills can earn higher wages. Overtime and hazard pay may also increase overall compensation.

What does a typical work schedule look like for a Cal Fire Firefighter, and how does the team operate during fire season?

Cal Fire Firefighters usually work long shifts, often on a rotating schedule that can include 24-hour shifts and extended assignments during peak fire season. Teams are highly collaborative, relying on strong communication and coordination to respond to wildfires, structural fires, rescues, and other emergencies. During the height of fire activity, firefighters may be deployed to remote locations for several days at a time, living and working together in dynamic, high-pressure environments. This teamwork ensures quick, unified responses to evolving incidents and supports the safety of both firefighters and the public.

How much do CAL FIRE workers get paid?

Cal Fire firefighters' salaries vary based on experience, rank, and location, but entry-level firefighters typically earn around $3,500 to $4,500 per month, with additional pay for overtime, hazardous duty, and certifications. Experienced firefighters and those in supervisory roles can earn higher wages, and the position often includes benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

How much do firefighters make in CAL?

Cal Fire firefighters typically earn an annual salary ranging from approximately $40,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, rank, and years of service. Entry-level firefighters start at the lower end, while those with more experience or specialized skills can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and hazard pay during fire seasons.

What is a Cal Fire Firefighter job?

A Cal Fire Firefighter is responsible for responding to wildfires, structural fires, and other emergencies across California. They perform fire suppression, rescue operations, and emergency medical services while also engaging in fire prevention, education, and resource management. Firefighters work in demanding conditions, often in rugged terrain, and must be physically fit and trained to handle various firefighting equipment. Cal Fire Firefighters may also participate in controlled burns, disaster response, and public safety programs. This role requires extensive training, teamwork, and a commitment to protecting lives, property, and natural resources.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Cal Fire Firefighter position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cal Fire Firefighter, you need physical fitness, emergency response expertise, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with completion of a fire academy or Firefighter I certification commonly required. Familiarity with firefighting apparatus, wildland fire tools, PPE, and communications systems such as radios and incident command software is essential. Teamwork, resilience, quick decision-making, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are standout soft skills. These attributes are vital for ensuring safety, effective incident response, and successful collaboration during unpredictable and hazardous situations.

More about Cal Fire Firefighter jobs
What cities are hiring for Cal Fire Firefighter jobs? Cities with the most Cal Fire Firefighter job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cal Fire Firefighter jobs? The most popular types of Cal Fire Firefighter jobs are:
Infographic showing various Cal Fire Firefighter job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,606 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Fire Apparatus Engineer (Extra Help Only)

Mariposa County, CA

Mariposa, CA โ€ข On-site

$24/hr

Part-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Salary: $24.00 Hourly
Location : Mariposa, CA
Job Type: Extra-Help (Part-time)
Job Number: 16-01107
Department: Fire
Opening Date: 12/06/2024
Description
DEFINITION
The Fire Apparatus Engineer supports Mariposa County Fire primarily by operating Class B or firefighter-restricted fire apparatus under general supervision. This role includes safely driving fire apparatus, performing maintenance on equipment, and assisting with fire suppression, rescue, and fire prevention tasks as needed.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
The Fire Apparatus Engineer operates advanced firefighting equipment, demonstrates sound independent decision-making, and interacts with the public tactfully and professionally. The position requires knowledge of fire codes, ordinances, laws, and regulations. The incumbent must possess strong organizational skills and the ability to learn and manage various programs, applying specialized training and experience in lifesaving and firefighting methods. This role involves significant physical exertion and exposure to potential health risks while using heavy protective gear and Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) during emergency response.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
The Fire Apparatus Engineer reports to a Fire Captain or higher-ranking officer and provides general supervision to firefighters in emergency and non-emergency activities. This position may assume the role of Incident Commander until relieved by a higher-ranking officer.
Examples of Duties
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Safely drives and operates operating Class B or Fire Fighter restricted apparatus fire apparatus such as engines and Water Tenders.
Perform general maintenance and minor repair work for the assigned County fire stations, including but not limited to painting, cleaning, repairing water lines, etc.
Maintain the grounds of the assigned County Fire Stations by sweeping, weed control, pruning, watering, trimming, mowing, fertilizing, and maintaining the irrigation systems.
Work with and assists Fire Prevention Inspectors with the general public to conduct fire safety presentations and inspections and provide information regarding fire prevention.
Respond to emergency calls, fire alarms, and non-emergency calls to perform necessary firefighting and medical responder work.
Perform a variety of routine Firefighting skills and techniques, including safely operating tools and equipment that assist and/or are required to perform such tasks.
Work within immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) conditions such as enters burning buildings to remove persons from danger or as a coordinated strategy/tactic to prevent further fire damage; performs salvage and overhaul tactics as directed; ventilates by breaching walls or roofs inside/outside and top of buildings to release heat and smoke; places salvage covers to prevent damage; overhauls and cleans up after a fire to prevent rekindling; checks fire scene for point of origin and source of ignition, and preserves evidence which may indicate arson or cause of fire.
Participate in drills and training sessions; compiles and submits information on equivalent runs, accidents, and fire inspections.
Minimum Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience:
Any combination equivalent to experience and training that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities would be qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge, skills, and abilities would be:
High School Diploma or GED.
Certification in Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator 1A and 1B Pumping Apparatus Operations through the State Fire Marshal.
Valid Class B or firefighter-restricted apparatus driver's license with eligibility for the County's vehicle insurance program.
Successful completion of Physical Agility Test (California Physical Ability Test (CPAT) or North County Regional Physical Abilities Test (NCRPAT)) or successful completion of the Mariposa County physical agility exam. (Candidates must provide a copy of current CPAT/NCRPAT card of completion at the time of selection interview).
Certification in Title 22-compliant Public Safety First Aid and CPR or higher.
Preferred:
Completion of a Firefighter I Academy (SFT IFSAAC/Proboard Firefighter I, CAL FIRE FF1A, FF1B, FF1C or equivalent).
Two (2) years of firefighter experience.
Additional Requirements: As a condition of employment, all prospective employees shall be required to be fingerprinted (Live Scan).
EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS
Knowledge of:
Building construction, fire chemistry, physics, and automotive mechanics.
Current local, state, and federal laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to the safety and protection of people, property, and grounds associated with the County and its surrounding areas.
Fire prevention methods and procedures, including fire scene preservation for investigation and identification of cause and origin.
Fire management and control procedures and prevention techniques.
Disaster preparedness response strategies.
Principles of human behavior and behavior modification strategies and techniques to identify at-risk people.
Emergency communication techniques, including equipment and its use.
Use and care of fire safety measures and control tactics.
Safe driving principles and practices.
Safety policies and safe work practices applicable to the work being performed.
Local geography, County streets, state highways, public buildings, and businesses.
Principles and practices of sound business communication, including proper English usage, grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Record keeping and report preparation techniques to ensure department compliance.
Standard office practices and procedures and the operations of standard office equipment.
Fire pump theory as it relates to fire apparatus.
Pre-fire plan development for risk mitigation.
Ability to:
React calmly, make sound decisions, and show flexibility in emergency situations.
Represent the department effectively in interactions with other agencies, the media, and the public.
Promote equity and inclusion by fostering a culturally responsive, respectful service environment.
Exercise sound judgment, adaptability, and creativity in response to changing situations and needs.
Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with colleagues, community members, and other stakeholders.
Interpret and apply departmental policies, procedures, laws, and codes accurately and consistently.
Manage multiple tasks with efficiency, maintains detailed records, and prepare reports that ensure departmental compliance.
Meet department fitness standards, perform strenuous activities in emergencies, and maintain composure under high-stress conditions.
Skill to:
Build trust and confidence in the Fire Department and CAL FIRE through positive interactions and public engagement.
Communicate respectfully and effectively with Chief Officers, staff, and the public; able to adapt messages for audiences with different levels of knowledge.
Make clear and effective oral presentations to diverse audiences.
Calculate fire pump applications accurately, operating firefighting tools, and using standard business software.
Gather, evaluate, and interpret information to apply relevant policies, laws, and codes effectively.
Demonstrate tact, diplomacy, and respect when dealing with sensitive issues and people in challenging situations.
Extra-Help employees are not entitled to County benefits.
01
One of the requirements of this position is a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Do you have a high school diploma or GED equivalent?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Initial if you have read and understand the minimum qualifications for this position. Additionally, you have attached all supporting documents representing proof of minimum qualifications.
Required Question