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Entry Level Firefighter Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Firefighter/Paramedic (Entry-Level ) High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) Coursework in Fire Science or a related field is desirable Firefighter/Paramedic (Entry-Level) - No previous experience ...

Entry Level Firefighter information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$29.7K

$62.2K

$104.3K

How much do entry level firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level firefighter in Riverside, CA is $62,185.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $72,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I become a firefighter with no experience?

Entry level firefighters typically do not need prior experience but must meet requirements such as a high school diploma or equivalent, pass physical fitness tests, and obtain certifications like CPR and EMT. Fire departments often provide training and expect candidates to demonstrate strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

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 entry level firefighters?

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.

Is 25 too late to be a firefighter?

Entry-level firefighters can typically start at age 18 or older, and 25 is not considered too late to pursue a career in firefighting. Many departments value maturity and life experience, and candidates often need to complete firefighter training and obtain certifications such as EMT or paramedic licenses. Age requirements vary by department, but starting at 25 is generally acceptable for entry-level firefighter positions.

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.

Can an epileptic be a firefighter?

Entry level firefighters must meet medical standards, which typically include assessments of physical and neurological health. Having epilepsy may disqualify candidates due to safety concerns, as the job requires quick decision-making and physical endurance, but individual cases are evaluated on a case-by-case basis with medical documentation and clearance. It is important to consult with medical professionals and fire department policies for specific eligibility criteria.

Can firefighters make $100,000?

Entry-level firefighters typically do not earn $100,000 annually; most salaries are lower, especially without significant experience, overtime, or specialized roles. Higher salaries are more common in senior positions, urban areas, or with additional certifications and responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level firefighters during their first year on the job?

Entry level firefighters often encounter several challenges in their first year, including adapting to the physically demanding nature of the job and learning to operate under high-pressure emergency situations. They must quickly become proficient with complex equipment and procedures, all while integrating into a close-knit team environment. Additionally, new firefighters may find it challenging to manage unpredictable shift schedules and balance work with personal life. Support from experienced colleagues and ongoing training are key to overcoming these initial hurdles.
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Infographic showing various Entry Level Firefighter job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,185 per year, or $29.9 per hour.
Firefighter/Paramedic

$106K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Description and Essential Functions Connected by Amazing Employees Salary information stated above does not reflect FLSA OT pay Twelve (12) month probationary period which commences on the first day of employment The City of Murrieta is accepting applications to fill current Firefighter/Paramedic vacancies within the Murrieta Fire & Rescue Department. The eligibility list established may be used to fill upcoming vacancies within this classification for up to one (2) years. DEFINITION Under general supervision, responds to various types of emergencies; participates in the control and suppression of fires; rescues persons from burning structures and other hazardous situations; provides advanced life support; participates in activities associated with hazardous materials incidents; participates in fire prevention, station maintenance, and training activities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Management reserves the right to add, modify, or remove job duties as necessary and will make reasonable accommodations consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) to enable qualified individuals to perform the position's essential functions. The omission of a specific duty does not preclude it from being assigned if it is similar, related, or logically aligned with the role's overall responsibilities Respond to fire and other emergency calls and participate in fire extinguishment, ventilation, salvage, rescue, and other operations; operate various firefighting/control equipment Provide advanced life support and pre-hospital care as allowed under the policies and procedures of the local medical director Assist in loading and transporting of victims; communicate with hospital and/or health care professionals concerning patient treatment and condition Complete all required reports and input into computer system Maintain and service all EMS equipment and restock and order supplies as needed Maintain all required certifications and meet continuing education requirements necessary to work as a paramedic Perform routine equipment checks and fire station duties and participate in required training activities Participate in fire prevention inspections and pre-incident planning of public and commercial buildings May participate in clean up and disposal of toxic/hazardous waste materials May drive fire apparatus and other staff vehicles Perform other duties as assigned Minimum Qualifications MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Must successfully pass the Firefighter Candidate Testing Center (FCTC) Entry Level Firefighter Written Exam and be placed on the FCTC Statewide Eligibility List as of August 10, 2026. (If FCTC testing is needed please register at FCTC click here).

To view upcoming Cal-JAC CPAT and FCTC Written Test dates, click here (https://www.fctconline.org/testingschedules/). Candidates experiencing financial hardship may qualify for financial aid to pay for their FCTC testing fees. (https://www.fctconline.org/financialaid/) Items marked with an asterisk (*) must be uploaded directly to the candidate FCTC profile

EMT-Paramedic license in the State of California* Certificate of Completion from a California State Firefighter I Academy or OSFM Firefighter I * Driving is an essential job function; therefore, a valid California Driver's License is required* Possess a current, valid Cal-Jac CPAT Card with an issue date between August 10, 2025 and August 10, 2026* EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE Required: Firefighter/Paramedic (Entry-Level ) High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) Coursework in Fire Science or a related field is desirable Firefighter/Paramedic (Entry-Level) - No previous experience required LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS Items marked with an asterisk (*) must be attached to the application High School Diploma or equivalent (GED)* EMT-Paramedic license in the State of California* Certificate of Completion from a California State Firefighter I Academy (OSFM Firefighter I also accepted)* Possess a current, valid Cal-Jac CPAT Card with an issue date between August 10, 2025 and August 10, 2026* California Class C Driver License* If selected for hire, candidates will be required to submit copies of the following certificates later in the selection process. American Heart Association Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification or RHeaRT certificate American Heart Association, American Red Cross or state approved BCLS/CPR certification or RHeaRT certificate California Class C Driver License Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) and Pre-Hospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) acquired within six months of hire Obtain local EMS accreditation within two months of hire date SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS Disaster Service Workers In accordance with government code 3100, "Disaster Service Workers" (DSW) during emergencies. This law stipulates that public employees can be assigned to emergency activities to support the public's health, safety, and property during natural, man-made, or war-caused disasters.

Tier 6 - Full Background + Safety & Psychological Final candidates must successfully complete an extensive pre-employment screening process, including a full background investigation, Department of Justice Live Scan (DOJ/LS), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) fingerprint clearance, a safety (job-related) pre-employment physical examination, and a psychological evaluation. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities / Physical Demands and Environmental Conditions WORKING KNOWLEDGE OF Basic fire prevention and suppression techniques and practices Pre-hospital paramedic-level assessment, treatment and medical aid techniques ABILITY TO Think and act quickly and effectively in emergency situations Perform moderate to strenuous physical activity Use and operate a variety of firefighting equipment Work safely Learn and apply firefighting principles and techniques Understand, explain and apply policies and procedures Understand and apply mechanical and physical principles related to fire suppression Learn and apply fire code provisions and arson/fire investigation techniques Climb ladders Prepare a variety of reports using a computer and a variety of software programs Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing Establish and maintain effective relationships with other employees and the community at large Represent the City in meetings and make presentations Meet the physical requirements established by the City Supplemental Information APPLICATION PROCEDURE A City application form and resume must be submitted online. Applicants can apply online at www.MurrietaCA.gov

SELECTION PROCESS Candidates must clearly demonstrate through their application materials that they meet the employment standards outlined above. All properly completed applications will be reviewed, and the most qualified candidates will be invited to continue in the selection process. The examination process may include a combination of appraisal interviews, performance tests, and writing exercises designed to evaluate the candidates' skills, training, and experience.

Successful candidates will be placed on an eligibility list. The City reserves the right to merge eligibility lists as needed. Final selection is contingent upon successful completion of all required pre-employment requirements.

SPECIAL EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS Per the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA), this position has been identified as a Mandated Reporter. The selected candidate will be required to report known or suspected child abuse or neglect as defined by CANRA and will be required to sign a Statement Acknowledging Requirement to Report Child Abuse prior to commencing employment. EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY The City of Murrieta is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment.

All employment practices such as recruitment, selection, and promotions are administered in a manner designed to ensure that employees and applicants for employment are not subjected to discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age (over 40), marital or veteran status, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, medical condition, disability, or any other basis that is inconsistent with federal, state or local laws. THE COMMUNITY Located just north of San Diego County, the City of Murrieta is home to approximately 120,000 people. Central to all of Southern California, residents of Murrieta live in one of the safest cities in the U.S

With top-ranked schools, 53 parks, and 1,300 acres of parks, trails, and open space, it is consistently ranked the top place to live in SW Riverside County. With a dynamic business environment, one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state, and a high median income. Murrieta offers its residents an exceptional quality of life in an engaged and connected community.

THE DEPARTMENT Murrieta Fire & Rescue (MFR) provides fire suppression, emergency medical services, technical rescue, hazardous materials mitigation, fire prevention, public education, and disaster preparedness, to approximately 33.6 square miles of southwestern Riverside County, California. The department delivers emergency services with 48 personnel (16 per shift) from five fire stations. In support of these efforts, MFR is managed administratively by a Fire Chief and a Deputy Chief, and employs a Fire Marshal, Emergency Medical Services Coordinator, and a Training Officer

MFR has a long tradition of providing excellent customer service to the region's residents and guests. Since the department's inception in 1947, the expectation of our first responders has grown to include much more than fire suppression and basic first aid. Progressive, "all - risk" agencies are now expected to deliver advanced paramedic services, public education, hazardous materials, technical rescue, and wildland-urban interface response.

MFR is consistently working to achieve and/or maintain the highest level of professionalism and efficiency on behalf of those it serves. MFR's personnel are expected to be fully engaged with the agency and community, including assignments on committees and project teams. The agency is an active participant in statewide mutual aid and national USAR deployments, which requires long stretches on duty.

The shared vision of the agency is to become a Fire Department from which other progressive agencies measure themselves. RECRUITMENT PROCESS Step 1: Online Application: In order to be considered for a position with the Murrieta Fire & Rescue Department, applicants must submit an online application and required documents in response to a current job opportunity listed on the City's website. Step 2: Oral Interview and EMS Assessment: Qualified applicants will be required to complete oral interviews and an EMS assessment as part of the recruitment process.

Step 3: Conditional Job Offer: Following the successful completion of all prior steps, candidates may be made a conditional job offer. Job offers are conditional upon the successful completion of a background investigation, psychological and medical examination. Step 4: Background Investigation and Administrative Interviews: Qualified applicants will undergo a complete, comprehensive background investigation.

Upon completion of the background investigation, applicants may be invited to an administrative interview. Step 5: Psychological and Medical Examinations: Qualified applicants shall undergo a psychological assessment by a qualified professional to determine their suitability for the position. In addition, applicants will complete a full medical examination, including drug screening.

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Organization: FFA Adopted: 2/18/2003 THE CITY OF MURRIETA ORGANIZATIONAL VALUES Integrity We are ethical, honest, and fair in all we do. Public Service We deliver responsive and caring service to our community, customers, colleagues, and region. Professionalism We exemplify professionalism through our knowledge, accountability, initiative, and dedication.

Teamwork We thrive in a positive work environment noted for collaboration, support, diversity, and balance. Leadership We demonstrate leadership, guide stewardship of resources, and cultivate a vision for the future.