ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Fire Instructor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of San Bruno

Fire Cadet

San Bruno, CA

Our one-year Fire Cadet program is an unpaid, volunteer work experience program that offers hands ... Instructor if currently enrolled) 18 years of age at the time of application HOW TO APPLY ...

City of Tulare

Fire Captain

Tulare, CA · On-site

$8.7K - $10K/mo

By bringing in instructors from across the country and sending our personnel to premier national conferences such as Fire Department Instructors Conference, Fire-Rescue International, and programs ...

Global Medical Response

Instructor

San Diego, CA

$45/hr

We provide end-to-end medical transportation as well as fire services, integrated healthcare solutions and disaster response. JOB SUMMARY: The Instructor functions as Lead Instructor for identified ...

AMR

Instructor

San Diego, CA

$45/hr

We provide end-to-end medical transportation as well as fire services, integrated healthcare solutions and disaster response. JOB SUMMARY: The Instructor functions as Lead Instructor for identified ...

Global Medical Response

Instructor

San Diego, CA

$45/hr

We provide end-to-end medical transportation as well as fire services, integrated healthcare solutions and disaster response. JOB SUMMARY: The Instructor functions as Lead Instructor for identified ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsFire Instructor JobsFire Instructor Jobs in California

Fire Instructor information

See California salary details

$8

$24

$47

How much do fire instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for fire instructor in California is $24.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.24 and $29.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fire instructor?

Fire Instructors are professionals who teach and train firefighters and other emergency responders in fire safety, firefighting techniques, rescue operations, and emergency procedures. They develop lesson plans, conduct classroom and hands-on training sessions, and ensure that all trainees understand safety protocols and best practices. Fire Instructors also evaluate trainees’ performance and keep up to date with the latest industry standards and firefighting technology.

What is the difference between Fire Instructor vs Firefighter?

AspectFire InstructorFirefighter
CertificationsFire Instructor Certification, CPR, First AidFirefighter Certification, EMT/Paramedic
Work EnvironmentTraining facilities, classrooms, fire academiesFire scenes, emergency response, fire stations
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, training academies, safety organizationsFire departments, emergency services, rescue teams

Fire Instructors focus on training and educating firefighters and the public, working mainly in classrooms and training facilities. Firefighters respond to emergencies, fighting fires and rescuing people at fire scenes. While both roles require fire safety certifications, their work environments and daily tasks differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fire instructor?

To thrive as a Fire Instructor, you need extensive firefighting experience, knowledge of fire science, and typically certifications such as Fire Instructor I or II. Familiarity with training simulators, instructional technology, and learning management systems is often required. Strong communication, leadership, and adaptability help engage diverse trainees and address dynamic situations. These skills ensure effective knowledge transfer, safety, and preparedness in high-risk emergency response environments.

What are some common challenges faced by fire instructors when training new recruits?

Fire Instructors often encounter challenges such as effectively communicating complex firefighting techniques to recruits with varying levels of experience and learning styles. Ensuring safety during live-fire training scenarios is another significant concern, requiring strict adherence to protocols and close supervision. Additionally, keeping training sessions engaging and realistic while meeting certification standards can be demanding. Building teamwork and trust among recruits is also a key focus, as these skills are critical in emergency situations.

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

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Fire Instructor jobs?

Cities in California with the most Fire Instructor job openings:

Fire Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Instructor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,712 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Fire Cadet

City of San Bruno

San Bruno, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Description The City of San Bruno Fire Department offers an exciting opportunity to serve as a Fire Cadet. Our one-year Fire Cadet program is an unpaid, volunteer work experience program that offers hands-on training, and introductory knowledge of firefighting skills, fire service tools and equipment. Cadets respond to emergency calls, render Basic Life Support and participate in training, and participate in the daily station duties.

Cadets must be willing to commit to 24-hour shifts, two to four times per month. The cadet program is one year in length. Upon completion, this program meets the manipulative training and experience requirements in obtaining a California State Fire Marshal's Office Firefighter II certification.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS State of California EMT certification Possession of a valid driver's license and a driving record with minimal violations Possession of a Firefighter I Academy certification (or proof of "student in good standing" letter signed by an Academy Instructor if currently enrolled) 18 years of age at the time of application HOW TO APPLY Interested candidates who meet the minimum requirements are encouraged to submit an application on the City's BambooHR page. In your application, please upload 1) EMT Certificate 2) Firefighter I Academy certification (or proof of "student in good standing" letter signed by an Academy Instructor if currently enrolled) 3) Resume (optional). Applications are part of a continuous recruitment, and candidates who apply may be asked to participate in an interview.

The City of San Bruno is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) and as such does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, sex, gender, religion, ancestry, physical or mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or national origin in its employment actions, decisions, policies and practices. If you require special accommodations, please contact us to discuss your needs.

Apply