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Defensible Space Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Familiarity with federal, state and local building, development, and defensible space codes and standards is also highly desirable Duties and Responsibilities * Analyzing project maps, plans, and ...

Senior Code Compliance Officer

Poway, CA · On-site

$84K - $102K/yr

Coordinates and enforces the City's weed abatement program and Wildfire Defensible Space program, including identification of properties in violation, notification to property owners, and follow-up ...

Familiarity with federal, state and local building, development, and defensible space codes and standards is also highly desirable Duties and Responsibilities * Analyzing project maps, plans, and ...

Senior Code Compliance Officer

Poway, CA · On-site

$84K - $102K/yr

Coordinates and enforces the City's weed abatement program and Wildfire Defensible Space program, including identification of properties in violation, notification to property owners, and follow-up ...

... defensible space. Equipment and Supplies · Assist with the maintenance and repair of tools, machinery, and equipment used on the property. · Track inventory of maintenance supplies and tools ...

Showing results 21-40

Defensible Space information

What is defensible space?

Defensible space refers to the area around a building where vegetation, debris, and other combustible materials are managed or removed to reduce the risk of fire damage. Creating defensible space helps slow the spread of wildfire and provides firefighters with a safer area to protect structures. This typically involves clearing flammable plants, maintaining lawns, and using fire-resistant landscaping within a specific distance from buildings. Homeowners are often required by local regulations to maintain defensible space to improve community safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defensible space inspector?

To thrive as a Defensible Space Inspector, you need knowledge of fire prevention standards, vegetation management, and local regulations, typically supported by experience in fire safety or related environmental fields. Familiarity with GIS mapping tools, mobile inspection software, and sometimes specific state certifications is important for accurate assessments. Strong observation, communication, and problem-solving skills help inspectors effectively educate property owners and document compliance. These abilities ensure properties are safer from wildfire risks and regulations are properly enforced.

What are some common challenges faced by defensible space inspectors, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Defensible Space Inspectors often encounter challenges such as communicating fire safety requirements to property owners who may be unfamiliar with local regulations or resistant to making changes. Additionally, inspectors may need to navigate varied terrain and weather conditions while conducting site assessments. Building strong communication skills, staying up-to-date on fire codes, and using digital tools for reporting can help address these challenges. Collaboration with local fire departments and continuous public education are also key to ensuring compliance and maintaining safety.

What is the difference between Defensible Space vs Fire Inspector?

AspectDefensible SpaceFire Inspector
Required CredentialsKnowledge of fire safety, landscaping, and property managementFire science certification, state or local fire inspector license
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, residential and commercial propertiesIndoor inspections, community education, report writing
Employer & IndustryProperty owners, fire departments, municipalitiesFire departments, government agencies, consulting firms

Defensible Space involves creating and maintaining a safe zone around properties to reduce fire risk, focusing on landscaping and property management. Fire Inspectors evaluate buildings and properties for fire safety compliance. While both roles aim to prevent fires, Defensible Space is proactive property management, whereas Fire Inspectors conduct assessments and enforce safety codes.

What are popular job titles related to Defensible Space jobs in California?

For Defensible Space jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Defensible Space jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Defensible Space jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Defensible Space job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

AmeriCorp Fellow - California Emergency Response Corps

CORE Community Organized Relief Effort

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$30K/mo

Other

Medical

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description
The California Emergency Response Corps (CERC) is a statewide AmeriCorps preparedness and disaster response program led by California Volunteers and administered by Bay Area Community Resources (BACR). The program's mission is to strengthen California's emergency readiness and disaster resilience, particularly in communities most vulnerable to wildfires, floods, earthquakes, and food insecurity.
This is a limited-term service opportunity totaling 1700 hours (~11 months). Fellows will gain direct experience in climate resilience, community organizing, and emergency response while serving vulnerable communities across California.
CORE is recruiting CERC Fellows for two areas of service:
1. Climate Resilience & Disaster Preparedness
Los Angeles | San Diego | San Francisco Bay Area
Fellows will support community-based emergency preparedness, climate resilience, disaster mitigation, outreach, education, volunteer engagement, and community projects. Fellows will work directly with residents and community partners to help communities prepare for and reduce the impacts of disasters.
2. Disaster Recovery & Resource Navigation
Los Angeles - Altadena
Fellows will support wildfire recovery efforts in Los Angeles, with a primary focus on Altadena and the Pacific Palisades. Fellows will support CORE's Altadena recovery hub and Center for the Community by helping residents navigate community resources and connect with recovery services and assistance.
Both positions provide hands-on experience working directly with communities and supporting residents before, during, and after disasters.
Direct Community Engagement
  • Lead community outreach, education events, and distribute preparedness materialsFacilitate workshops on disaster preparedness and climate resilienceCollaborate with community-based organizations and residents on local projects

Program Development Support
  • Co-develop content and ideas for local campaign events and community-led initiatives
  • Support the implementation of urban greening, defensible space, risk assessment, emergency kit preparation, and food insecurity projects

Volunteer Coordination & Community Engagement
  • This program works in Alameda and Santa Clara Counties and includes extensive driving.
  • Represent CORE and AmeriCorps at community events and trainings
  • Build and maintain relationships with local community-based organizations
  • Recruit, train, and lead volunteers in climate and disaster preparedness projects

Data & Reporting
  • Log community interactions, feedback, and resource distribution
  • Submit accurate weekly reports and timekeeping through approved systems
  • Participate in regular performance check-ins and team meetings

Emergency Deployment
  • Be available for up to 4 deployments across California during your service term, each lasting up to 2 weeks
  • Support emergency operations (e.g., wildfire relief, food bank distribution) with 24-48 hours' notice

AmeriCorps Member Expectations
  • Serve ~35 hours per week to complete 1700 hours
  • Participate in CERC-wide and site-specific training (virtual and in-person)
  • Complete weekly reports, timekeeping, and evaluations
  • Participate in State/National Days of Service (MLK Day, 9/11 Day, César Chávez Day)
  • Engage in ongoing performance check-ins with site supervisors and program staff

Qualifications
  • 18 years or older
  • U.S. Citizen or lawful permanent resident
  • Reside in or willing to relocate to Los Angeles, San Diego, Bay Area, or Siskiyou County
  • Spanish or other second language skills preferred
  • One year of related experience (paid or volunteer) or a bachelor's degree
  • Willingness to serve evenings/weekends as needed
  • Ability to deploy statewide on short notice (up to 2 weeks, 4 times per year)
  • Basic computer skills (Microsoft Suite, Google Workspace, Zoom)
  • Must pass background checks (DOJ, FBI, NSOPW)
  • Valid California driver's license, automobile insurance, and access to personal vehicle

Benefits
  • Monthly living stipend ($30,000 over 11 months)
  • AmeriCorps Segal Education Award of up to $10,000 (upon successful completion)
  • Healthcare coverage
  • Childcare assistance (if eligible)
  • Student loan forbearance (for eligible loans)
  • Ongoing training, mentorship, and professional development

Clear pre-employment background check requirements, including local, state, and national criminal records checks, sex offender registries, employment, education verifications and child abuse registry check (if required by state regulations) are required post job offer and prior to employment.
Safeguarding
CORE is committed to keeping children and vulnerable individuals safe and has a Zero Tolerance policy for sexual exploitation and abuse. Every CORE employee, consultant and volunteer is bound by CORE's Code of Conduct and Safeguarding Policy. By applying for this position, an applicant confirms that they have not previously violated an employer's safeguarding, sexual misconduct, (child) sexual exploitation and abuse, or human trafficking policy.