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Cal Fire Firefighter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

... 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 ...

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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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.

Assistant Chief - East Division

Department of Forestry & Fire Protection

Santa Rosa, CA โ€ข On-site

$10K - $13K/mo

Full-time

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

For questions related to the duties of the position, please contact Deputy Chief Don Watt by phone at (530) 448-2401 or email inquiries to Don.Watt@fire.ca.gov .
The Assistant Chief supervises staff and oversees operations at the Sugar Pine Conservation Camp as well as Battalions 1 and 2 within the Shasta-Trinity Unit. The position will be headquartered and primarily located at Sugar Pine Conservation Camp in Bella Vista, CA.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
The incumbent typically is required to perform psychologically stressful and/or physically demanding duties consistent with firefighting, disaster response, and emergency medical response, including working in isolated areas, walking or running on uneven, rough terrain, and remaining on duty 24 hours or longer without a break while performing these duties.
May be subject to working nights, weekends, or holidays to complete duties.
Due to the scope and responsibilities of the position, regular travel throughout the East Division is required to complete duties. Travel throughout the Shasta-Trinity Unit, Shasta County, Northern Region, and state will also be required.
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • ASSISTANT CHIEF
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-524175
Position #(s):
542-238-1039-001
Working Title:
Assistant Chief - East Division
Classification:
ASSISTANT CHIEF $10,569.00 - $13,674.00
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Shasta County
Telework:
In Office
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Facility:
Shasta-Trinity Unit
Department Information
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) is California's fire department and resource management agency. The organization is comprised of nearly 12,000 permanent and seasonal employees. The mission of the Department is to serve and safeguard the people and protect the property and resources of California.
When you join CAL FIRE, you join a family of employees that function as a team. You will build trust and friendship with your co-workers, as together you respond to emergencies and challenging situations. CAL FIRE provides employees with a variety of career choices and opportunities. We hope that you will consider a rewarding and challenging career with CAL FIRE!
Department Website: www.fire.ca.gov
Special Requirements
  • The position(s) require(s) a Background Investigation be cleared prior to being hired.
  • The position(s) require(s) Medical Clearance prior to being hired.

The incumbent is required to wear respiratory protection equipment, including self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). The use of such equipment may place a physiological burden on the incumbent that varies with the type of equipment used, the job and workplace conditions in which the equipment is used, and the medical status of the incumbent. As such, the California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal/OSHA) requires that the incumbent be annually medically cleared to be fit-tested for respiratory protection equipment. This clearance process consists of a comprehensive medical evaluation including a review of the incumbent's medical history, a complete physical examination, and vision, hearing, spirometry, and exercise treadmill test.
Possession of a valid Driver's License of the appropriate class issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles is required and must be verified prior to appointment.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 7/19/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of Forestry & Fire Protection
CAL FIRE Northern Region Hiring
Attn: SHU - AC
135 Ridgway Avenue
Santa Rosa , CA 95401
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Forestry & Fire Protection
CAL FIRE Northern Region Hiring
Attn: SHU - AC
135 Ridgway Avenue
Santa Rosa , CA 95401
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is required and must be included.
  • Other - Authorization to Release Information Form (PO-299). This form may be found at: https://www.fire.ca.gov/-/media/D817B8E27D8049C3BC35297686467FB9
  • Other - Copy of the front and back of your valid Driver's License of the appropriate class issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Benefits Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Department Website: www.fire.ca.gov
Human Resources Contact:
Michi McKillip
(707) 576-2905
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Reasonable Accommodation Coordinator
(916) 767-8359
ReasonableAccommodations@fire.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Additional Information
Please include position number 542-238-1039-001 on your STD 678.
Candidate may be selected by resume review.
A pplicants are highly encouraged to complete a Recruitment Questionnaire, located at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HLYSH8V
Pursuant to California Penal Code 4571, any individual interested in seeking employment who may be required to work with inmates at a conservation camp must disclose of any prior felony status up front, so CAL FIRE/CDCR can provide informed consent to a former felon to be on the Conservation Camp/Prison grounds. Any person/employee that has been convicted of a Felony and not received written consent, is committing a Felony.
Positions located at a Camp or requiring the supervision of inmates requires compliance with the Prison Rape Elimination Act. Compliance is determined by completing a Live Scan prior to appointment and during the course of employment to verify the standards of the Code of Federal Regulations Part 115 Prison Rape Elimination Act National Standards are met.
How To Get A State Job
Individuals must pass an open examination before applying for most job vacancies with the State of California.
Use the "exam/assessment search" function on the CalCareers website at www.jobs.ca.gov to search for the examination you are interested in applying for. If the exam is currently being offered, you will need to follow the directions in the exam bulletin on how to apply for and take the exam. Not all examinations are offered continuously or at the time a job vacancy occurs.
Successful examination candidates are placed on an eligibility list. Candidates should refer to their examination results for specific list eligibility expiration dates and to re-take the exam when necessary. Once list eligibility has been established, you can search and apply for current vacancies in the classification to which you have established eligibility.
Candidates must also meet the minimum qualifications of the classification to be appointed into the classification they are applying for. Minimum qualifications can be found in the class specifications listed on the exam bulletin or on the CalCareers website. Application packages should include documentation and relevant experience that shows you have the required education and/or experience to meet the minimum qualifications.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.