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Entry Level Firefighter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Firefighter Paramedic

Costa Mesa, CA ยท On-site

$7.9K - $10K/mo

Applicant should transfer a FireTeam entry-level firefighter examination test score dated between August 1, 2025, and August 29, 2026, to the City of Costa Mesa or apply with the National Testing ...

Firefighter Paramedic The Monterey County Regional Fire District will be accepting applications ... This is an entry-level position with the District and an outstanding opportunity for a dynamic ...

Firefighter Paramedic

Costa Mesa, CA ยท On-site

$7.9K - $10K/mo

Applicant should transfer a FireTeam entry-level firefighter examination test score dated between August 1, 2025, and August 29, 2026, to the City of Costa Mesa or apply with the National Testing ...

Applicant should transfer a FireTeam entry-level firefighter examination test score dated between August 1, 2025, and August 29, 2026, to the City of Costa Mesa or apply with the National Testing ...

Firefighter Paramedic

Costa Mesa, CA ยท On-site

$7.9K - $10K/mo

Applicant should transfer a FireTeam entry-level firefighter examination test score dated between August 1, 2025, and August 29, 2026, to the City of Costa Mesa or apply with the and take the Fire ...

Firefighter/Paramedic

Canyon Lake, CA ยท On-site

$22.40 - $27.22/hr

The Firefighter/Paramedic is an entry-level classification within the Fire Department responsible for performing a variety of duties and responsibilities in support of the Fire Department's fire ...

Firefighter-Paramedic Recruit

Ventura, CA ยท On-site

$5.8K - $7.4K/mo

... (entry-level recruit) INTRODUCTION Do you currently have a valid California paramedic license, an interest in a fire service career and a passion to serve your community? Are you an accountable ...

Firefighter-Paramedic Recruit

Ventura, CA ยท On-site

$5.8K - $7.4K/mo

... (entry-level recruit) INTRODUCTION Do you currently have a valid California paramedic license, an interest in a fire service career and a passion to serve your community? Are you an accountable ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Firefighter information

See California salary details

$28.1K

$58.8K

$98.7K

How much do entry level firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level firefighter in California is $58,826.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,900.00 and $68,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level firefighter?

Entry level firefighters are individuals who have recently been hired or are beginning their careers in fire services, typically after completing required training and certifications. They are responsible for responding to emergency calls, extinguishing fires, rescuing people, and providing first aid. Entry level firefighters also participate in fire prevention, equipment maintenance, and continuous training to improve their skills. Their duties are often supervised by more experienced firefighters or officers as they gain experience on the job.

What does an entry level firefighter do?

As an entry-level firefighter, your responsibilities are to suppress fires and respond to emergency calls as part of a fire brigade or company. You also have numerous duties in the firehouse, such as inspecting and maintaining equipment, cleaning, and completing administrative tasks. The term firefighter typically denotes the lowest rank in a company, and this rank is often divided into several categories to indicate your level of experience. As a firefighter, you take orders from your superiors, such as the driver or engineer, lieutenant, and captain of the company.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level firefighter, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Firefighter, you need a high school diploma or GED, physical fitness, basic emergency response knowledge, and successful completion of fire academy training. Familiarity with emergency communication systems, firefighting equipment, and CPR or EMT certifications are typically required. Teamwork, problem-solving, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are standout soft skills. These abilities are essential to effectively respond to emergencies, ensure public safety, and work cohesively within firefighting teams.

What is the difference between Entry Level Firefighter vs Firefighter Trainee?

AspectEntry Level FirefighterFirefighter Trainee
Required CertificationsCPR, EMT, Firefighter 1 certificationTypically in training, may have basic certifications
Work EnvironmentActive firefighting, emergency responseTraining environment, supervised drills
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, emergency servicesFire academies, training programs

Entry Level Firefighters are fully qualified to respond to emergencies and perform firefighting duties, while Firefighter Trainees are in training, gaining necessary certifications and experience before becoming full firefighters.

What are the most commonly searched types of Firefighter jobs in California?

The most popular types of Firefighter jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Firefighter jobs in California?

For Entry Level Firefighter jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Firefighter jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Firefighter jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Firefighter jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Firefighter job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Firefighter job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,826 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Firefighter Paramedic

City of Costa Mesa, CA

Costa Mesa, CA โ€ข On-site

$7.9K - $10K/mo

Other

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Firefighter/Paramedic

Application & Testing Process: Interested applicants MUST submit National Testing Network (NTN) score AND complete online city application by August 29, 2026.

National Testing Network: Applicant should transfer a FireTeam entry-level firefighter examination test score dated between August 1, 2025, and August 29, 2026, to the City of Costa Mesa or apply with the National Testing Network and take the Fire Team test by Saturday, August 29, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.

The online city application will be available starting at 8:00 a.m. on August 8, 2026.

The recruitment will close on Friday, August 29th at 5:00 p.m.

Firefighter/Paramedic Compensation: 1st assignment: $7,973 - $10,681 1st recertification: $8,063 - $10,802 2nd recertification: $8,154 - $10,924 3rd recertification: $8,245 - $11,045 *Salary information above includes base salary for Firefighter and Paramedic Assignment Pay. The City will pay a $500 bonus for fourth and subsequent license renewals.

Please make sure to carefully read the job flyer including qualification information before submitting an application. Application Instructions and Test Information Please make sure to carefully read the instructions and test information before submitting an application. Certification Submission Cover Sheet Candidates MUST submit copies of their certifications with the cover sheet with their on-line application. The cover sheet is in a PDF reader- type in your responses directly into the fields. Click here to visit the Fire Department Recruitment website for general information on the department. If you have any questions regarding the selection process, please email firerecruitment@costamesaca.gov.

Physical Tasks and Environmental Conditions: Please contact Human Resources for a summary of the essential tasks and environmental factors for this classification. Employee accommodations for physical or mental disabilities will be considered on a case-by-case basis.