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Fire Engine Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Engine Boss

Riverside, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

WE'RE HIRING FOR THE 2026 FIRE SEASON! Our firefighters are the heartbeat of our company, and we ... Current driver's license with acceptable driving record * ENGBs hired after 9/19/2024 must have a ...

Engine Boss

Visalia, CA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

WE'RE HIRING FOR THE 2026 FIRE SEASON! Our firefighters are the heartbeat of our company, and we ... Current driver's license with acceptable driving record * ENGBs hired after 9/19/2024 must have a ...

... apparatus, fire engine and other fire equipment, tools and supplies, perform minor repairs, and perform other related work. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Valid Driver's License, Monterey County EMT ...

$78K - $94K/yr

We currently operate two Type 1 Fire Engines, one Type 3 Fire Engine, Ladder Truck, three Command ... Possession of a valid California class C driver's license is required. Possession of Firefighter I ...

Firefighter Paramedic

Suisun City, CA · On-site

$78K - $94K/yr

We currently operate two Type 1 Fire Engines, one Type 3 Fire Engine, Ladder Truck, three Command ... Possession of a valid California class C driver's license is required. * Possession of Firefighter ...

... and diesel engine mechanics as applied to maintenance and repair; and the procedures, tools ... Possession of a valid California Class A Driver's License required to successfully pass the six (6) ...

... and diesel engine mechanics as applied to maintenance and repair; and the procedures, tools ... Possession of a valid California Class A Driver's License required to successfully pass the six (6) ...

Reg 4 Tester

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $23.75/hr

Complete and submit test results via the LAFD-approved Compliance Engine within required timelines ... fire sprinkler systems required (typically 2+ years preferred). * Valid drivers license with ...

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Fire Engine Driver information

See California salary details

$9

$25

$48

How much do fire engine driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for fire engine driver in California is $25.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.95 and $30.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical challenges faced by a Fire Engine Driver during emergency responses?

Fire Engine Drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating through heavy traffic, adverse weather conditions, and unfamiliar locations while maintaining safety for the crew and public. Quick decision-making and calm under pressure are essential, as drivers must operate large emergency vehicles efficiently and coordinate closely with dispatchers and firefighting teams. Additionally, Fire Engine Drivers are responsible for the safe setup and operation of on-board equipment at the scene, making adaptability and strong communication skills crucial for success in this role.

What are Fire Engine Drivers?

Fire Engine Drivers, also known as fire apparatus operators or engineers, are firefighters trained to operate and drive fire engines and other emergency response vehicles. Their primary responsibility is to safely transport firefighters and equipment to emergency scenes and to operate the vehicle's pumps and other systems during firefighting operations. They must have specialized training in driving large emergency vehicles, understanding traffic laws, and maintaining the fire engine's mechanical systems. Fire Engine Drivers play a critical role in ensuring quick response times and supporting firefighting efforts on the scene.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Fire Engine Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Engine Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), thorough knowledge of vehicle operation, and a strong understanding of emergency response protocols. Familiarity with fire engine apparatus, GPS navigation, and radio communication systems is typically required, along with certifications such as Emergency Vehicle Operator Course (EVOC). Excellent situational awareness, calmness under pressure, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure timely and safe transportation of crew and equipment, directly impacting emergency response effectiveness and community safety.

What is the difference between Fire Engine Driver vs Firefighter?

AspectFire Engine DriverFirefighter
Required CertificationsDriver's license with fire apparatus endorsement, basic firefighting certificationFirefighter certification, EMT or paramedic license often preferred
Work EnvironmentPrimarily operates fire engines, drives to emergency sitesPerforms rescue, suppression, and medical aid at scenes
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, emergency servicesFire departments, emergency response teams

While both roles are vital in fire emergency response, the Fire Engine Driver primarily focuses on operating fire apparatus and ensuring quick, safe transportation to emergencies. Firefighters perform a broader range of duties, including rescue and fire suppression. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations within fire services.

What cities in California are hiring for Fire Engine Driver jobs? Cities in California with the most Fire Engine Driver job openings:
Infographic showing various Fire Engine Driver job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 62% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,954 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

$23 - $27/hr

Other

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Position Summary: Under supervision of the fire captain, the engineer operates all fire apparatus and equipment; transports crew to the emergency scene; responds to fires, medical, rescue, hazardous material and other emergency and non-emergency situations and takes appropriate action to protect life, property and the environment; performs various staff support assignments in addition to normal emergency response activities; performs related work as assigned.
Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Safely drives fire apparatus to the scene of an emergency and other routine events, positions apparatus appropriately, and places apparatus in operation as directed by fire supervisory staff.
2. Operates ladder truck and engines during emergency and routine events by correctly positioning ladder or engine, laying hose, calculating and monitoring correct hydraulic requirements, directs engine hook-up and sets up and adjusts controls to ensure proper water flow, operates rescue and other specialized apparatus as may be required.
3. Responds to calls for medical aid, including traffic collisions and rescue events. Provides pre-hospital care at the EMT- I level, including examining patients and monitoring vital signs, use of AED defibrillator, and takes other basic and advanced first aid and life support actions as appropriate; communicates with hospital and/or health care professionals in person or by radio; completes required reports. Restocks supplies and maintains emergency vehicles and equipment in proper working condition.
4. Maintains all current EMT certifications according to Tuolumne County EMS protocol.
5. Responds to and safely performs assigned duties on variety of emergency events including, but not limited to, structure fires, wild land fires, vehicle accidents, medical aids, hazardous materials release, confined space rescue, trench rescue, low and high angle rescue, swift water rescue, and wilderness search and rescue, etc.
6. Operates various auxiliary equipment, such as lights and power during night-time emergency response. Sets up ladder, mounted and other water monitors. Uses hand and power tools to obtain entry to buildings, frees trapped accident victims, shuts off utilities, and provides ventilation.
7. Participates in clean-up, salvage and overhaul operations; cleans, services and ensures operational readiness of fire vehicles, apparatus, hoses and equipment; and assists with the maintenance of station and facilities.
8. Participates in various staff support assignments including but not limited to: fire prevention, inspection of commercial and residential property, training and skills improvement.
Maintenance of inventory records; scheduled inspections of department equipment and apparatus; and fire investigations.
9. Responds to hazardous materials emergencies at the First Responder Operational level.
10. Works with the community in a variety of educational, public relations and service programs; may provide CPR training classes as assigned.
11. Consistently demonstrates the highest level of customer service during emergency and routine situations.
12. Serves as acting captain on a relief basis when certified and licensed to do so; may direct the work of others.
13. Performs all firefighting duties and responsibilities at the Firefighter I Level or higher.
14. Prepares various computerized fire and medical incident reports.
15. Performs all duties and responsibilities in a safe and responsible manner.
16. Attend supervisor training within six months of promotion or hire.
  1. Possess High School Diploma or GED.
  2. Must possess a valid California Class B Commercial driver's license with passenger transportation endorsement, tank endorsement and air brake endorsement. Must maintain current vehicle insurance requirements.
  3. Must be a minimum of 18 years of age.
  4. Must possess Engine Boss (ENGB) or higher qualifications.
  5. Must have completed training in Engine Specified Engine Academy or Practicum.
  6. Must be able to work shifts if necessary.
  7. Must possess valid EMT medical certificate, CPR and AED certifications
  8. Must undergo pre-employment and annual physical exam.
  9. Must be able to pass an arduous physical fitness requirement.
  10. Organized, self motivated, and able to perform tasks independently.
  11. Able to interact professionally with people with a wide variety of backgrounds.
  12. Ability to follow detailed instructions in emergency situations.

Physical Requirements:
This position is deemed a level 5 and requires walking, standing, and sitting for prolonged periods of time; climbing stairs, ladders, scaffolding, ramps, etc.; stooping, kneeling, crouching, balancing, crawling and reaching; pushing, pulling and lifting in excess of 100 pounds; raising objects overhead; manual dexterity; hearing, talking and good verbal and written communication skills; repetitive motions of the wrists, hands, and fingers; subject to outside environmental conditions of heat and cold; walking on uneven ground; operation of heavy-weight equipment.
Indian Preference:
Preference in filling vacancies shall be given first to qualified Tuolumne Me-Wuk Community Council Members and then to enrolled Native Americans of any federally recognized tribe. Documentation for claiming preference must be provided with the application for consideration. Other than the above, the Tuolumne Me-Wuk Tribe is an equal opportunity employer.
Pre-employment Requirements:
Employment is contingent on pre-employment background and drug test results.