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Fire Lieutenant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Livingston, CA

Fire Lieutenant

Livingston, CA · On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

In the absence of a Fire Captain, the Fire Lieutenant assumes responsibility for station operations and incident command. The position participates in fire suppression, emergency medical response ...

City of Livingston (CA)

Fire Lieutenant

Livingston, CA

$64K - $95K/yr

In the absence of a Fire Captain, the Fire Lieutenant assumes responsibility for station operations and incident command. The position participates in fire suppression, emergency medical response ...

City of Livingston (CA)

Fire Captain

Livingston, CA

$71K - $105K/yr

Two (2) years of full-time experience as a Fire Lieutenant or equivalent supervisory fire service experience. Licenses and Certifications Required at time of appointment and to be maintained ...

City of Livingston, CA

Fire Captain

Livingston, CA · On-site

$71K - $105K/yr

Two (2) years of full-time experience as a Fire Lieutenant or equivalent supervisory fire service experience. Licenses and Certifications Required at time of appointment and to be maintained ...

JobsQuest

Fire Paramedic

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

Work is performed within established policies and procedures and is reviewed through performance evaluations by a Fire Lieutenant, Fire Captain, or Fire Chief. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS: Agencies ...

JobsQuest

Fire Paramedic

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

Work is performed within established policies and procedures and is reviewed through performance evaluations by a Fire Lieutenant, Fire Captain, or Fire Chief. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS: Agencies ...

Pbjcal

Fire Paramedic

Fairfield, CA

Work is performed within established policies and procedures and is reviewed through performance evaluations by a Fire Lieutenant, Fire Captain, or Fire Chief. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS: Agencies ...

City of Paso Robles, CA

Police Lieutenant

Paso Robles, CA · On-site

$142K - $185K/yr

As a member of the department's management team, the police lieutenant oversees critical police ... These include police and fire protection, emergency medical response, water and wastewater ...

City of Paso Robles

Police Lieutenant

Paso Robles, CA · On-site

$142K - $185K/yr

These include police and fire protection, emergency medical response, water and wastewater ... lieutenant position with the Paso Robles Police Department, and all required licenses and ...

Pbjcal

Firefighter

Fairfield, CA

Work is performed within established policies and procedures and is reviewed by a Fire Lieutenant, Fire Captain, Fire Chief, or through performance evaluations. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS: Agencies ...

JobsQuest

Firefighter

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

Work is performed within established policies and procedures and is reviewed by a Fire Lieutenant, Fire Captain, Fire Chief, or through performance evaluations. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS: Agencies ...

City of Lindsay

Volunteer Firefighter

Lindsay, CA · On-site

Works under close supervision of the Fire Lieutenant & Fire Apparatus Engineer. SUPERVISION EXERCISED: None. Examples of Duties ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: The list of duties is not ...

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All JobsFire Lieutenant JobsFire Lieutenant Jobs in California

Fire Lieutenant information

See California salary details

$51.3K

$94.2K

$190K

How much do fire lieutenant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire lieutenant in California is $94,197.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,200.00 and $96,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How long does it take to be a fire lieutenant?

Becoming a fire lieutenant typically requires several years of experience as a firefighter, usually around 5 to 7 years, along with the completion of relevant training and certifications such as fire officer courses. Advancement depends on departmental policies, individual performance, and passing promotional exams or assessments.

What is the difference between Fire Lieutenant vs Fire Captain?

AspectFire LieutenantFire Captain
CertificationsFirefighter certification, EMT/Paramedic license, Fire Officer I/IIFirefighter certification, EMT/Paramedic license, Fire Officer I/II, Fire Officer III/IV (often required)
Work EnvironmentLeading fire crews, supervising daily operations, trainingOverseeing multiple fire crews, managing incident scenes, administrative duties
Employer & IndustryFire departments, emergency servicesFire departments, emergency services
Common Search & ComparisonFire Lieutenant vs Fire Captain

Fire Lieutenants typically supervise fire crews and handle daily operational tasks, while Fire Captains oversee multiple crews and manage larger incidents. Both roles require similar certifications and work in fire departments, but Captains often have broader responsibilities and command authority.

Can you be a fire lieutenant in the fire department?

A fire lieutenant is a supervisory role in the fire department responsible for overseeing fire suppression, rescue operations, and personnel. Candidates typically need to have several years of firefighting experience, valid certifications such as Firefighter I and II, and often must complete leadership training or exams to promote to this rank.

What are some common challenges fire lieutenants face when leading their teams during emergency incidents?

Fire Lieutenants often encounter the challenge of making quick, high-stakes decisions while ensuring the safety of both their crew and the public. They must maintain clear communication under pressure, coordinate effectively with other emergency responders, and adapt to rapidly changing situations. Balancing leadership responsibilities with hands-on operational tasks can also be demanding, especially during large-scale incidents where resource allocation and situational awareness are critical.

What is a fire lieutenant?

Fire Lieutenants are supervisory firefighters who oversee a team of firefighters during emergency responses and daily operations at the fire station. They are responsible for ensuring effective firefighting tactics, enforcing safety protocols, conducting training, and managing equipment readiness. Fire Lieutenants serve as the link between firefighters and higher-ranking officers, making critical decisions during emergencies and assisting with administrative tasks. Their leadership helps maintain order and efficiency within their unit, ensuring the safety of both their team and the public.

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

To thrive as a Fire Lieutenant, you need extensive firefighting experience, leadership abilities, and typically completion of relevant fire science courses or officer certifications. Familiarity with incident command systems, fire investigation tools, and emergency response software is often required. Strong decision-making, communication, and team management skills set outstanding Fire Lieutenants apart. These competencies ensure effective emergency response, safety of personnel, and successful execution of fireground operations.

How much does a fire lieutenant make in the US?

The average fire lieutenant salary in the US is approximately $70,000 to $90,000 per year, depending on location, experience, and department size. Fire lieutenants often require certification and leadership skills, and they typically work in fire stations or emergency response environments.
More about Fire Lieutenant jobs
What are popular job titles related to Fire Lieutenant jobs in California? For Fire Lieutenant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Lieutenant jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Lieutenant jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Fire Lieutenant jobs? Cities in California with the most Fire Lieutenant job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Fire Lieutenant jobs in CA? For Fire Lieutenant jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Fire Lieutenant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Lieutenant 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 $94,197 per year, or $45.3 per hour.

Fire Lieutenant

City of Livingston, CA

Livingston, CA • On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Salary : $64,568.00 - $95,294.00 Annually
Location : Livingston Fire Station, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202400036
Department: Fire Services
Division: Fire Services
Opening Date: 02/18/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
Definition
Under general supervision, the Fire Lieutenant performs the full range of firefighting duties and supervises personnel and operations during an assigned shift. In the absence of a Fire Captain, the Fire Lieutenant assumes responsibility for station operations and incident command. The position participates in fire suppression, emergency medical response, rescue, and fire prevention activities, and provides leadership, training, and direction to assigned staff.
Distinguishing Characteristics
The Fire Lieutenant is a first-line supervisory classification within the Fire Department. Incumbents are responsible for shift supervision, tactical incident management, and day-to-day oversight of fire company operations. Fire Lieutenants provide direct supervision to Fire Apparatus Engineers, Firefighters, and extra-help personnel, and serve as acting station supervisors when higher-ranking officers are absent.
Supervision Received and Exercised
Received: General supervision from a Fire Captain or higher-level Fire Department staff.
Exercised: Direct supervision over Fire Apparatus Engineers, Firefighters, and extra-help or volunteer personnel as assigned.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Respond to fire, medical, rescue, and other emergency alarms and participate in emergency response operations.
  • Perform tactical incident management and direct the activities of fire personnel until relieved by a senior officer.
  • Supervise fire company personnel during assigned shifts, including scheduling, work assignments, and performance oversight.
  • Drive and operate fire apparatus; operate pumps, ladders, and other firefighting and rescue equipment as required.
  • Assist in fire suppression, emergency medical care, rescue operations, and protection of life, property, and the environment.
  • Conduct or assist in residential and commercial fire inspections to identify and eliminate fire hazards.
  • Provide public education in fire prevention and life safety practices.
  • Assist in planning, conducting, and evaluating training programs and drills for fire personnel.
  • Ensure fire stations, apparatus, and equipment are adequately maintained and operationally ready.
  • Prepare and maintain reports, records, and documentation related to incidents, personnel, training, and inspections.
  • Ensure compliance with departmental policies, procedures, safety standards, and applicable laws.
  • Assist in fire investigations and determination of fire origin and cause as assigned.
  • Administer emergency medical care within the scope of certification.

Other duties may be assigned that are consistent with this classification.
Minimum Qualifications
Knowledge of:
  • Fire prevention and suppression methods, including use of the Incident Command System (ICS).
  • Operation, use, and maintenance of firefighting apparatus and equipment.
  • Principles of fire prevention, building construction, fire inspections, and pre-fire planning.
  • Mechanical principles related to fire apparatus and allied equipment.
  • First aid, CPR, and emergency medical response techniques.
  • Firefighter Procedural Bill of Rights (FBOR).
  • Fire Department policies and procedures.

Ability to:
  • Supervise, train, and direct fire personnel during routine and emergency operations.
  • Plan, prioritize, and manage daily shift activities.
  • Analyze emergency situations quickly and adopt effective courses of action.
  • Make sound decisions under stressful and time-sensitive conditions.
  • Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, other agencies, and the public.
  • Prepare accurate and concise reports and maintain operational records.
  • Operate radio communications and modern office equipment.
  • Delegate tasks appropriately and provide leadership and mentorship to subordinates.

Education and Experience
  • Education: Equivalent to completion of the twelfth (12th) grade.
  • Experience: Two (2) years of full-time fire suppression and prevention experience, including at least one (1) year at the driver/operator or equivalent level, and completion of an Acting Company Officer task book or equivalent, as determined by the City.

Licenses and Certifications
Required at time of appointment and to be maintained throughout employment:
  • Valid California driver's license with appropriate firefighter endorsement.
  • Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-I or EMT-B) certification.
  • Professional Rescuer CPR/AED certification.
  • Hazardous Materials Incident Commander or equivalent certification.

Additional certifications may be required pursuant to City or departmental policy.
Desirable Qualifications
  • Associate degree or higher in Fire Technology, Fire Science, Public Administration, or a related field.
  • California State Fire Marshal Company Officer certification.

Physical and Working Conditions
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work under emergency conditions, including lifting, climbing, bending, and working in hazardous and extreme environments.
  • Required to work rotating shifts, nights, weekends, holidays, and emergency call-back assignments.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Duties and requirements may be modified consistent with City needs and applicable laws.
We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, Employee Assistance Program and sick leave.
01
Do you have two (2) years of full-time fire suppression and prevention experience, including at least one (1) year at the driver/operator or equivalent level, and completion of an Acting Company Officer task book or equivalent?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you possess a valid California Driver's License with appropriate firefighter endorsement?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you possess an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-I or EMT-B) certification?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you possess a Professional Rescuer CPR/AED certification?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Are you available to work the required rotating shifts, nights, weekends, holidays, and emergency call-back assignments?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Do you possess a Hazardous Materials Incident Commander or equivalent certification?
  • Yes
  • No

07
Do you possess a California State Fire Marshal Company Officer certification?
08
Do you possess an Associate Degree or higher in Fire Technology, Fire Science, Public Administration, or a related field?
  • Yes
  • No

09
The information provided in your application must support your selected answers in the supplemental questions. The information you provide will be verified and documentation may be required. Please be as honest and accurate as possible. You may be asked to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a work sample or during an interview. By completing this supplemental questionnaire you are attesting that the information you have provided is accurate. Any misstatements, omissions, or falsification of information may eliminate you from consideration or result in dismissal.
  • Yes, I understand and agree
  • No, I do not agree

Required Question

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