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Fire Engine Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

County of Yolo

Company Officer

Woodland, CA

$63K/yr

DESCRIPTION Summary The West Plainfield Fire Department is recruiting to fill an immediate opening ... The Department operates on a 48/96 schedule and staffs a 2-0 engine, supplemented with Volunteer ...

County of Yolo, CA

Company Officer

Woodland, CA · On-site

$63K/yr

... Plainfield Fire Department is recruiting to fill an immediate opening for Company Officer. The ... The Department operates on a 48/96 schedule and staffs a 2-0 engine, supplemented with Volunteer ...

Cahuilla Band Of Indians

Firefighter/EMT

Anza, CA · On-site

He or she would also clean, recondition, and maintain fire tools and equipment in addition to other ... Serves as crewmember on an engine company. * Operates radios, telephones and other necessary ...

SF Fire Credit Union

Financial Analyst

San Francisco, CA · On-site

... SF Fire Credit Union first opened its doors from a modest 10' x 15' office space in 17 Engine. It ... Collaborate with business unit leaders across the organization to understand the key drivers behind ...

SF Fire Credit Union

Financial Analyst

San Francisco, CA · On-site

... SF Fire Credit Union first opened its doors from a modest 10′ × 15′ office space in 17 Engine ... Collaborate with business unit leaders across the organization to understand the key drivers behind ...

DataBP

Firefighter Reserve

Temecula, CA · On-site

$17/hr

Participates in all aspects of fire department activities to include fire suppression, hose ... Provides emergency medical care as a firefighter of an engine company. * Performs any and all ...

DataBP

Firefighter Reserve

Temecula, CA · On-site

Participates in all aspects of fire department activities to include fire suppression, hose ... Provides emergency medical care as a firefighter of an engine company. * Performs any and all ...

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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:
Fire Engine Driver jobs near you
Company Officer

Company Officer

County of Yolo

Woodland, CA

$63K/yr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

DESCRIPTION Summary The West Plainfield Fire Department is recruiting to fill an immediate opening for Company Officer. The ideal candidate should be a confident, resilient, flexible, strong team member, and be able to think quickly under pressure and communicate effectively. The candidate should possess the discipline and maturity to work unsupervised, including on scene.

Salary and Hours - Full-Time Company Officer: $63,786 annually. The Department operates on a 48/96 schedule and staffs a 2-0 engine, supplemented with Volunteer and Reserve Firefighters. An initial 80 hours of Department specific training is required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS The ideal candidate will possess the following or show documentation of equivalency: Be at least 18 years of age by the closing date of the recruitment period Be in possession of a high school diploma or a General Equivalency Diploma (GED) Be a US Citizen or have proof of a legal right to work in the U.S. Have and maintain a valid California Driver's License with endorsement, or equivalent Have and maintain automobile insurance as required by California law Have SFM Firefighter I certification Have successfully completed SFM Driver 1A and 1B classes Have successfully completed the SFM Company Officer 2D class or possess equivalent experience Have and maintain a California EMT License Have a minimum of three (3) continuous years in the fire service as a member of an organized fire department or fire agency Must be able to pass a physical performed by a physician, including drug testing and lung function testing Have good vision in both eyes, with the ability to distinguish Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) color codes for hazardous materials (e.g., blue, red, yellow, white) and have no depth or peripheral vision impairment Must pass background check Desirable Qualifications: SFM Company Officer certification SFM Firefighter II certification Experience commanding emergency operations APPLICATION & SELECTION PROCESS To review the job description, apply for the position, and for more information about the Department visit https://www.westplainfieldfire.gov. If you have any questions, please contact us at chief@westplainfieldfire.gov.

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