Fire Department Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Riverside County Fire Department
Reserve Chaplain
This is an Unpaid Position
Description Created: June 2025
PURPOSE AND DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:
Reserve Chaplains assist the Riverside County Fire Department a variety of
emergency and non emergency situations including but not limited to critical stress debriefings,
memorial services for department staff and family members, and department and family home,
hospital or other facility visitations offering support. Teamwork, personal investment, and self-sacrifice
are the basis of the social framework of a Reserve Chaplain. Reserve Chaplains also provide a variety of community services. This position requires each
individual member to perform a variety of duties and may include the responding to calls within
the community as well as assisting other neighboring communities during mutual aid responses.
In addition, Reserve Chaplains may be required to perform other duties as assigned.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:
The examples of functions listed in this class specification are representative but not necessarily
exhaustive or descriptive of any one position in the class. Management is not precluded from
assigning other related functions not listed herein if such functions are a logical assignment for
the position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable an individual with a qualified
disability to perform the essential functions of a job, on a case-by-case basis.
Essential Functions:
Reserve Chaplain:
Duties may include, but are not limited to:
May assist department staff in emergency situations including liaison, notification, transportation
of family members or critical stress incident management to department staff as deemed
appropriate by the Fire Chief or his/her designee.
May conduct or assist in funeral or memorial services for department staff and family. Work with
department staff and family to provide necessary support and comfort.
Visitation of department members, their families or support groups.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Each Reserve Chaplains brings a unique combination of experience, knowledge, skills
and abilities to the team. Knowledge, skills and abilities that are particularly applicable to this type
of assignment include:
Must have the ability to work effectively under the stress of emergency situations and calmly and
effectively handle others in emergency situations.
Must have the ability to read, learn, and remember changes in policy or procedures.
Must have the ability to apply information in a logical manner; maintain composure, confront
stressful situations, and withstand the effects of repeated exposure to traumatic situations.
Must have the ability to take and follow orders from supervisors.
Must have the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with community
personnel, other fire agencies, outside agencies, and the general public.
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:
Reserve Chaplains must possess the physical, mental, and emotional ability to
successfully perform the essential and often stressful duties of such an assignment. The
mental/physical characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met:
Frequently stand, walk or sit for extended timeframes.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Must be a high school graduate or have passed the GED Requirements at time of appointment.
Be able to read and write English at a level required for successful job performance.
Be at least 18 years of age.
Able to follow oral and written direction, exercise good judgment, work safely independently and
with others, respond quickly to oral commands or signals during emergency situations.
May be required to complete any standard training requirements as approved by the lead
chaplain department before being allowed to participate in department activities.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Reserve Chaplains may be called upon to respond and work in all types of weather and
less than ideal conditions. They may be assigned to remote areas. They may be asked to endure
extended shifts, sometimes on weekends and holidays... Reserve Chaplains may be
exposed to emotional hazards associated with firefighting, emergency medical response and
rescue.
Desirable Traits:
Communicate effectively, knowledgeable worker, customer focused, values and respects others,
drives to excel, teamwork and collaboration, continuous learning, demonstrates ethical behavior
and supportive to change.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Riverside County Reserve Chaplains must have a reputation for honesty and
trustworthiness. Successful completion of a background investigation conducted by the County of
Riverside Human Resources is required. Misdemeanor and/or felony convictions may be
disqualifying depending on type, number, severity, and recency. In addition, personal references
and employment information will be verified.
Reserve Chaplains serve at the pleasure of the Riverside County Fire Chief and
may be separated at any time. Reserve Chaplains have no employment rights
with the County of Riverside and are not considered employees.
HOW TO APPLY
Applications may be obtained at www.rvcfire.org as positions are open and available. All required
documentation must be submitted with the application including a resume.