1

Dod Fire Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

$76K/yr

FIRE OFFICER IV, FIRE INSPECTOR II and FIRE INSTRUCTOR II. You must be certified as a HAZARDOUS MATERIAL INCIDENT - COMMANDER by the Department of Defense (DoD), International Fire Service ...

$76K/yr

FIRE OFFICER IV, FIRE INSPECTOR II and FIRE INSTRUCTOR II. You must be certified as a HAZARDOUS MATERIAL INCIDENT - COMMANDER by the Department of Defense (DoD), International Fire Service ...

FIREFIGHTER

Bridgeport, CA · On-site

$76K/yr

FIRE OFFICER IV, FIRE INSPECTOR II and FIRE INSTRUCTOR II. You must be certified as a HAZARDOUS MATERIAL INCIDENT - COMMANDER by the Department of Defense (DoD), International Fire Service ...

FIREFIGHTER

Barstow, CA · On-site

$76K/yr

FIRE OFFICER IV, FIRE INSPECTOR II and FIRE INSTRUCTOR II. You must be certified as a HAZARDOUS MATERIAL INCIDENT - COMMANDER by the Department of Defense (DoD), International Fire Service ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Dod Fire information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$104.2K

$180.6K

How much do dod fire jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for dod fire in California is $104,194.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,000.00 and $122,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a DoD firefighter?

DoD Firefighters are civilian or military personnel who work for the U.S. Department of Defense, providing fire protection, emergency response, and rescue services on military bases and installations. They are responsible for responding to fires, hazardous material incidents, and medical emergencies, as well as conducting fire prevention inspections and training. Their work helps ensure the safety of military personnel, property, and resources both in peacetime and during emergencies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DoD firefighter?

To thrive as a Department of Defense (DoD) Firefighter, you need comprehensive knowledge of fire prevention, emergency response, rescue operations, and must meet DoD Fire and Emergency Services Certification requirements. Familiarity with specialized firefighting equipment, hazardous materials handling, and systems like the Incident Command System is essential, along with certifications such as Firefighter I & II, HazMat Awareness, and CPR. Strong teamwork, physical fitness, quick decision-making, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in high-pressure situations. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure the safety of personnel and property during emergencies on military installations.

What are some common challenges faced by DoD firefighters, and how can new hires best prepare for them?

DoD Firefighters often face unique challenges such as adapting to a strict chain of command, responding to emergencies in secure or hazardous military environments, and maintaining readiness for a wide range of incidents, including aircraft and hazardous materials responses. New hires can best prepare by familiarizing themselves with military protocols, participating actively in ongoing training, and developing strong communication skills to work effectively with both civilian and military personnel. Building physical endurance and resilience is also crucial, as the role can involve long shifts and physically demanding tasks.

What is the difference between Dod Fire vs Dod Security?

AspectDod FireDod Security
CertificationsFirefighter certifications, CPR, First AidSecurity clearances, Security certifications
Work EnvironmentFirefighting, emergency response, hazardous conditionsAccess control, surveillance, protective security
Employer & IndustryMilitary bases, government facilities, emergency servicesMilitary installations, government agencies, security firms

Dod Fire personnel focus on firefighting, emergency response, and hazardous situations, requiring firefighting certifications. Dod Security staff handle access control, surveillance, and protective security, often needing security clearances. Both roles serve military and government facilities but differ in their primary responsibilities and required credentials.

What cities in California are hiring for Dod Fire jobs?

Cities in California with the most Dod Fire job openings:

Infographic showing various Dod Fire job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,194 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

Fire Protection Inspector (BLS/HMT)

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Tracy, CA • On-site

$63K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 538 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

See below for important information regarding this job.Qualifications:To qualify for a Fire Protection Inspector (BLS/HASMAT), your resume and supporting documentation must support:
A. Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience that equipped you with the particular competencies to successfully perform the duties of the position and is directly in or related to this position. To qualify at the GS-07 level, applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-06 level or equivalent under other pay systems in the Federal service, military, or private sector. Creditable specialized experience includes:
  • Carrying out fire prevention and protection programs in accordance with applicable standards.
  • Firefighting, fire prevention theory and techniques.
  • Controlling or extinguishing fires as a member of an organized fire department.
  • Conducting hazardous material offensive operations and decontamination operations.
  • Performing Basic Life Support.

B.SELECTIVE PLACEMENT FACTOR (SPF):
Department of Defense (DoD) 6055.06-M, "Fire and Emergency Services Certification Program" identifies the level of performance required for all DoD Fire and Emergency Services personnel. The certifications listed below are the minimum mandatory certification requirements for this position. DoD Incumbents shall possess DoD Certifications, or equivalent accredited certifications from the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) or the National Professional Qualifications System (Pro-Board):
Accredited Certification:
  • Fire Inspector I
  • Fire Instructor I
  • Firefighter I & II
  • Driver Operator - Pumper

State of (Ohio, California, Virginia, Pennsylvania) Certifications:
  • Emergency Medical Technician - Basic**

** If you do not possess a certification for the state in which you are applying, you MUST have National Registry certification and be eligible for reciprocity requirements.
Other Requirements:
  • Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation Certification
  • Valid State Driver's License
Other training requirements that must be obtained within one year of employment and maintained:
  • Emergency Vehicle Operator, (EVOC), Driver Operator - Aerial, Hazardous Materials Technician, Fire Inspector II.

Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Physical Demands
The work involves extended periods of heavy moving and lifting. Generally, the work requires recurring bending, lifting, stooping, stretching, and positioning of fire extinguishers, and other equipment. Must be able to wear protective clothing and equipment weighing up to 100 pounds, while working in extreme heat and cold under adverse conditions, such as fire and smoke. Ability to maintain alertness, self-control, and emotionally stability
to work in conditions of stress, confusion, panic, and physical injury and even death that occurs at major disasters. Climbs ladder and works at various heights. Must pass the firefighter physical examination annually and successfully participate in the ongoing Firefighter Physical Fitness Program.
Work Environment
The employee is exposed to out-of-control fires, emergency medical scenes, and other dangerous situations. They are also exposed to the possibility of burns and other effects of smoke inhalation, heat, falling materials, explosions, toxic materials, infections, and contagious diseases, and other dangerous substances. Is subject to injury while dealing with frightened fire/medical victims, or while participating in mob or riot control. There may
be hazards while operating or riding fire or medical vehicles at high speeds under adverse conditions, e.g., congested areas. The employee works outside in all types of weather conditions. Incumbent will be required to work a 60-hour workweek of four 9-hour shifts and one 24- hour shift. During actual firefighting, rescue, medical emergencies, and occasionally during drills, the incumbent will be subjected to extended hours as dictated by
the situation and exposed to extremely hazardous and uncomfortable conditions such as extreme heat and cold, precarious locations, smoke and fumes, or explosions.Education:Substitution of education may not be used in lieu of specialized experience for this grade level.
This position is being filled as Term appointment not-to-exceed (NTE) 3 years. Current permanent DLA employees eligible as a Promotion, this position will be filled as a Temporary Promotion NTE 3 years and may be extended up to a total of five years or converted to a permanent promotion without further competition. Current permanent DLA employees eligible as a Reassignment/Change-to-Lower Grade, this position will be filled as a Reassignment/Change-to-Lower Grade with the intent to be limited to the time period specified in the announcement and may be reassigned at management's discretion or made permanent at any time. Upon termination/expiration of the temporary assignment, placement will be either to the gaining or previous organization in accordance with DLA policy (DLAI 1442.04) regarding placement rights after a time-limited assignment. For all others, if selected, this would be a Term/Time-Limited Appointment NTE 3 years, and not more than six years. The selected applicant will be required to sign a written agreement acknowledging the conditions of this temporary assignment/appointment and that they may be released from this position upon management discretion.Employment Type: OTHER

What U.S. Department Of Defense employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom