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Fire Control Worker Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Working with USAF reserve unit maintaining MH-139 Grey Wolf. shift work is not isolated to a single ... Removes/installs integrated conventional weapons systems electronic components, fire control ...

PILOT, FIRE SERVICES

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$120K - $162K/yr

Communicates with Air Traffic Control. Communicates with supported ground units. Operates a variety ... twisting, or working above ground on irregular surfaces. It includes those positions that ...

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Fire Control Worker information

See California salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do fire control worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for fire control worker in California is $16.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fire control worker?

Fire Control Workers are professionals who specialize in preventing, managing, and extinguishing fires in forests, grasslands, and other outdoor environments. Their duties include monitoring fire risks, using tools and equipment to suppress active fires, creating firebreaks, and conducting controlled burns to minimize wildfire hazards. They often work in teams and may also assist in rescue operations and post-fire recovery efforts. Fire Control Workers play a vital role in protecting natural resources, property, and public safety, especially in regions prone to wildfires.

What are some common challenges fire control workers face during wildfire suppression operations?

Fire Control Workers often encounter unpredictable and rapidly changing conditions when combating wildfires, including shifting wind patterns, limited visibility, and challenging terrain. These factors require quick decision-making, physical endurance, and strict adherence to safety protocols. Additionally, teamwork and communication are crucial, as workers must coordinate closely with crew members and other emergency personnel to ensure effective and safe fire suppression.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fire control worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Control Worker, you need a solid understanding of fire prevention, suppression techniques, and safety protocols, typically supported by a high school diploma and specialized training. Familiarity with firefighting equipment, fire retardant systems, and communication tools is essential, and certifications such as CPR or wildland firefighting credentials are often required. Strong teamwork, physical stamina, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for effectiveness in emergency situations. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure rapid, coordinated responses that protect lives, property, and the environment during fire emergencies.

What is the difference between Fire Control Worker vs Fire Alarm Technician?

AspectFire Control WorkerFire Alarm Technician
CertificationsFire safety training, OSHA certificationsNICET certification, fire alarm system certifications
Work EnvironmentFire stations, industrial sites, fire control centersCommercial and residential buildings, installation sites
Employer & IndustryFire departments, industrial facilitiesSecurity companies, electrical contractors
Job FocusOperating fire control systems, emergency responseInstalling, maintaining, troubleshooting fire alarm systems

While both roles involve fire safety, Fire Control Workers primarily operate fire control systems and respond to emergencies, whereas Fire Alarm Technicians focus on installing and maintaining fire alarm systems. Both require safety certifications and work in related environments, but their daily tasks and expertise differ.

What skills are needed for fire control worker jobs?

Fire control workers need strong communication skills, physical fitness, and the ability to operate firefighting equipment. They should also have knowledge of safety procedures, teamwork abilities, and often require certifications such as CPR and first aid. Attention to detail and the capacity to work under stressful conditions are essential for success in this role.
Infographic showing various Fire Control Worker job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,064 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

BATTALION CHIEF - FIRE CONTROL

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$6.8K - $8.9K/mo

Full-time

PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Please Note: Due to postal service delays, electronic submission of application is recommended.
Please see the Duty Statement link, found in the Additional Documents section, for more information.
Applicants are highly encouraged to complete a Recruitment Questionnaire, located at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HLYSH8V
In July 2025, the State of California implemented the Personal Leave Program (PLP) 2025. This program temporarily reduces employees' monthly base pay in exchange for paid leave credits. This position is subject to PLP 2025 and will have a monthly base pay reduction of 3% in exchange for 5 hours of leave credits through June 2027. The salary ranges shown on this job posting do not reflect the salary reduction.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
  • This position is located at the CAL FIRE Training Center in Ione, CA, 45 minutes southeast of Sacramento in a rural community.
  • The incumbent to this position shall be retained for a minimum of a two-year commitment starting on the date of appointment. Any lesser commitment shall be pre-approved by the supervisor to the incumbent.

Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • BATTALION CHIEF
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-530917
Position #(s):
542-029-9723-502
Working Title:
BATTALION CHIEF - FIRE CONTROL
Classification:
BATTALION CHIEF $6,882.00 - $8,930.00
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Amador County
Telework:
In Office
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Department Information
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) is California's fire department and resource management agency. The organization is comprised of nearly 14,000 permanent and seasonal employees. The mission of the Department is to serve and safeguard the people and protect the property and resources of California.
When you join CAL FIRE, you join a family a family of employees that function as a team. You will build trust and friendship with your co-workers, as together you respond to emergencies and challenging situations. CAL FIRE provides employees with a variety of career choices and opportunities. CAL FIRE offers well-paying careers and opportunities for advancement. We hope that you will consider a rewarding challenging career with CAL FIRE!
Special Requirements
  • The position(s) require(s) a valid California Drivers License (CDL). You must answer the questions addressing your CDL on your application. Ensure you provide your CDL number, class, expiration date, and any endorsements and/or restrictions.

This position requires Respiratory Protection Program (RPP) Clearance prior to the incumbent being hired.
  • The incumbent may be required to wear respiratory protection equipment, including self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). The use of such equipment may place a physiological burden on the incumbent that varies with the type of equipment used, the job and workplace conditions in which the equipment is used, and the medical status of the incumbent. As such, California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (CalOSHA) requires that the incumbent be annually medically cleared to be fit-tested for respiratory protection equipment. This clearance process consists of a comprehensive medical evaluation including a review of the incumbent's medical history, a complete physical examination, and vision, hearing, spirometry, and exercise treadmill tests. Duties involve field work requiring physical performance calling for above-average ability, endurance, and superior condition, including occasional demand for extraordinarily strenuous activities in emergencies, under adverse environmental conditions, and over extended periods of time; requires running, walking, difficult climbing, jumping, twisting, bending and lifting over 25 pounds; and the pace of work is typically set by the emergency situation.
All job applicants must provide their employment history on the application form (State Application STD 678) rather than attaching a resume to the form, otherwise the application may be considered incomplete.
1. Do NOT include ANY confidential information on any documents you submit for a job vacancy, such as your State application, resume, or educational transcripts. Confidential information that should be excluded or removed from these documents includes, but is not limited to, your Social Security Number (SSN), birthdate, student identification number, driver's license number (unless required), basis of eligibility examination results, LEAP status, marital status, and age. Confidential information on the first page of applications submitted electronically online, such as Easy ID number, SSN, examination related information, and driver's license number will automatically be redacted upon submission.
2. Possession of Minimum Qualifications will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If you are meeting Minimum Qualifications with education, you must include your unofficial transcripts/diploma for verification. Official transcripts may be required upon appointment. If it is determined a candidate does not meet the Minimum Qualifications, the candidate will be withheld from the eligibility list, rendering them inactive and ineligible to be hired for the position. Candidates who have been withheld may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board.
The minimum qualifications can be found in the Battalion Chief classification specifications.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 9/12/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of Forestry & Fire Protection
N/A
Attn: Classification & Hiring Unit
P.O. Box 944246
Sacramento , CA 94244-2460
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Forestry & Fire Protection
N/A
Classification & Hiring Unit
710 Riverpoint Court, Suite 250
West Sacramento , CA 95605
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is required and must be included.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
Benefits
Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Contact Information
The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Hiring Unit Contact:
Erin Holster
(209) 781-6211
Erin.Holster@fire.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Reasonable Accommodation Coordinator
(916) 767-8359
ReasonableAccommodations@fire.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
BARGAINING UNIT 08
The Bargaining Unit 8 Memorandum of Understanding regarding Voluntary In-Class Transfer Policy (Inter-Unit) (Section 9.2) will be followed. Transfers may require a two-year commitment.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION & APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
Filing a job application "within the time" shall mean: applications must be postmarked by the United States Postal Service (USPS) or depositing with a parcel delivery or courier service no later than the final filing date specified by the job vacancy announcement, provided that the parcel contains proof of a timely deposit with the parcel delivery or courier service or
- Date stamped at the appropriate office of the appointing power no later than the final filing date specified by the job vacancy announcement
or
- Electronically transmitted no later than 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time on the final filing date specified on the job vacancy announcement.
For the purposes of determining whether an application has been filed within the time as set forth above, any dates printed on mobile barcodes or equivalent mobile print technology shall not be considered postmarks and, as such, are not acceptable proof of the date the application was filed.
A completed State Application (STD. 678), a Resume, and any other relevant documents (e.g. transcript copies, copies of degree(s), cover letter, etc.) should be submitted electronically via your CalCareer Account, by U.S. mail, or by dropping your application package off. Both addresses are listed in this Job Advertisement.
Please reference Job Control 530917 and indicate the basis of your eligibility in the Examination(s) or Job Title(s) section on the STD. 678. SROA and surplus candidates should submit a copy of their letter with their application. Please note you can only apply for one Job Control per application submission.
Candidate may be selected by Resume Review.
Temporary Appointments (TAU) may be considered if conditions warrant. TAU may be made to anyone regardless of eligibility. TAU may not exceed 9 months and will require eligibility to be obtained through an examination process in order to transition to a permanent or limited-term appointment.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.