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Fire Boat Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Founders 3 Management Company

Dockhand

Vallejo, CA · On-site

A good general knowledge of marina operations including boat lifting, handling and towing, plant and equipment maintenance. * Proven skills in VHF communication, first-aid and fire-fighting ...

New

Founders3

Dockhand

Vallejo, CA · On-site

A good general knowledge of marina operations including boat lifting, handling and towing, plant and equipment maintenance. * Proven skills in VHF communication, first-aid and fire-fighting ...

New

Founders 3 Real Estate Services

Dockhand

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$22/hr

A good general knowledge of marina operations including boat lifting, handling and towing, plant and equipment maintenance. * Proven skills in VHF communication, first-aid and fire-fighting ...

New

Hornblower

Deckhand

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

... fire stations, life preservers, work vest, life floats, and rescue boat). * Handle and dispose of all chemicals and other types of hazardous or caustic materials in compliance with Safety Data Sheets ...

Founders3

Harbor Master

Vallejo, CA · On-site

Sound knowledge of marina operations, boat lifting, handling, towing, plant and equipment ... Proven skills in VHF communication, first-aid and fire-fighting procedures. Computer and software ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsFire Boat JobsFire Boat Jobs in California

Fire Boat information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$104.2K

$180.6K

How much do fire boat jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire boat 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 fire boat?

A Fire Boat job involves operating and maintaining a specialized vessel equipped for firefighting on waterways. Fire boat crews respond to marine fires, assist in rescue operations, and support firefighting efforts in coastal, harbor, or riverfront areas. They often work alongside local fire departments and emergency services to control fires on ships, docks, and waterfront structures. The job requires training in firefighting techniques, maritime navigation, and vessel operation to ensure effective emergency response.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the fire boat position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Boat crew member, you need expertise in marine operations, knowledge of firefighting techniques, and relevant certifications such as Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and Firefighter I/II. Familiarity with navigation systems, marine communication equipment, and onboard firefighting systems is essential. Strong teamwork, quick decision-making, and effective communication are key soft skills in this position. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe and efficient emergency response on the water, protecting lives and property during maritime incidents.

What are some common challenges faced while working on a fire boat?

Working on a fire boat often means responding to emergencies in unpredictable and challenging conditions, such as rough waters, strong currents, and restricted visibility. Crew members must be prepared to operate specialized equipment and execute complex rescues or firefighting operations in close coordination with other agencies, such as the Coast Guard and local fire departments. Physical stamina, adaptability, and a calm demeanor are essential due to the demanding and sometimes hazardous nature of the job. Despite these challenges, many fire boat professionals find the work highly rewarding, as it plays a vital role in marine safety and community protection.

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

The most popular types of Fire Boat jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Fire Boat jobs in California?

For Fire Boat jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fire Boat jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Fire Boat jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Fire Boat jobs?

Cities in California with the most Fire Boat job openings:

Fire Boat jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Boat job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,194 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

Waterborne Security Boat Instructor

Prevailance, Inc.

San Diego, CA • On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description

Status: This position is currently open, we are accepting applications. 


Prevailance is seeking an experienced, mission-focused professional to join the Center for Security Forces (CENSECFOR) as a Waterborne Security Boat Instructor. This is a high-risk instructor role, involving both classroom and operational training. Travel may be required.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Deliver high-risk, group-paced instruction on security boat tactics, techniques, and procedures in both classroom and underway training environments
  • Utilize Safety/Operational Risk Management, Classroom Teaching Fundamentals, Training Requirements and Training Plans, and Training Scenario Scripting

Requirements

Qualifications:

  • Navy Instructor (9502) certification or equivalent 
  • Certified coxswain
  • At least three (3) years of documented operational security boat driving experience in one or more of the following:
    • Navy Harbor Security Maritime Detachment
    • U.S. Navy Coastal Riverine Forces (CRF) Detachment
    • U.S. Navy Special Warfare Combatant Crewman (SWCC)
    • USCG Shore-Based Boat Unit or Maritime Patrol Forces operating Fast Response Cutters (FRC), Patrol Boats (WPB), or Coastal Patrol Boats (CPB)
    • USCG Deployable Specialized Forces (DSF) such as MSRT, MSST, or PSU

Skills and Expertise:

  • Tactical and Leadership Experience: Minimum of three (3) years in a maritime environment with a strong background in tactical operations, boat maintenance, and Navy Force Protection boats
  • Coxswain Skills: Experience with launch and recovery, open water and confined space maneuvering, high-speed tactical maneuvers, towing, and VBSS operations
  • Maritime Navigation Proficiency: Skilled in maritime navigation, including knowledge of aids to navigation, rules of the road, and plotting on nautical charts, with the ability to navigate at night
  • Small Boat Tactical Operations: Proficient in team organization, multi-craft formations, patrols, MIO support, live fire operations, and escort missions, with experience in risk assessments using the ORM process
  • Craft Systems and Sub-Systems: Expertise in electronic navigation systems, communication equipment, and operation and maintenance of water jet and propeller-driven craft

Additional Requirements:

  • Experience in logistical movement and transportation of small craft and associated gear for over-the-road and hoisting operations
  • Tactical operations planning experience using military decision-making processes, including mission coordination, concept of operations, and mission debriefing
  • Ability to qualify as a Second-Class Swimmer per NETC P1552/16 standards, with normal color vision (FALANT color vision test and no night blindness)

Security Clearance:

  • Must possess and maintain a Secret security clearance

If you meet these qualifications and are ready to make an impact, we encourage you to apply today!

Prevailance, Inc. proudly supports veterans as a member of the V3 (Virginia Values Veterans) program and the Hire Vets initiative. Recognized as a Top Workplace in 2025, Prevailance fosters a supportive, mission-driven environment for its team members. We provide a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees, designed to support health, wellness, and financial security. Our benefits include:

  • Medical Insurance
  • TriCare Supplemental
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life & Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Coverage
  • 401(k) Plan with Company Matching Contributions
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • 11 Paid Holidays
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Computing Device Reimbursement Program 

Prevailance, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, age, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, marital status or any other consideration prohibited by law or contract. Prevailance, Inc. participates in E-Verify and is VEVRAA Compliant.  

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