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Fire Rescue Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Fire Lieutenant

Livingston, CA ยท On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

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 ...

Oversee all operational specialty teams (Rescue, HazMat, Critical Incident Stress Debrief [CISD], and SCBA. Provide fire information and public safety education. Provide input into fire code and ...

Firefighter/Paramedic

Murrieta, CA ยท On-site

$106K - $129K/yr

Murrieta Fire & Rescue Division: Suppression Opening Date: 06/28/2026 Closing Date: 8/9/2026 11:59 PM Pacific FLSA: Non-Exempt Bargaining Unit: FFA Description and Essential Functions Connected by ...

Fire Captain

Livingston, CA ยท On-site

$71K - $105K/yr

Respond to fire, medical, rescue, and other emergency incidents; assume command and direct incident operations in accordance with the Incident Command System (ICS). * Supervise station personnel and ...

Fire Captain

Livingston, CA ยท On-site

$71K - $105K/yr

Respond to fire, medical, rescue, and other emergency incidents; assume command and direct incident operations in accordance with the Incident Command System (ICS). Supervise station personnel and ...

Deputy Chief - Fire

Chico, CA ยท On-site

$196K/yr

Oversee all operational specialty teams (Rescue, HazMat, Critical Incident Stress Debrief (CISD), and SCBA. * Provide fire information and public safety education. * Provide input into fire code and ...

Description POSITION TITLE FIRE CAPTAIN DEPARTMENT FIRE EMPLOYMENT CATEGORY REGULAR EMPLOYMENT ... Direct firefighting and rescue operations until relieved by superior officer. Provide basic life ...

Fire Captain

Los Banos, CA ยท On-site

$91K - $116K/yr

Fire Opening Date: 07/02/2026 Closing Date: 7/23/2026 11:59 PM Pacific Description POSITION TITLE ... Direct firefighting and rescue operations until relieved by superior officer. * Provide basic life ...

Are you a recent municipal fire academy graduate, a student in a Fire Science program, or an ... Working as a Confined Space Rescue Technician is not only a rewarding career but also a fantastic ...

Are you a recent municipal fire academy graduate, a student in a Fire Science program, or an ... Working as a Confined Space Rescue Technician is not only a rewarding career but also a fantastic ...

The Rescue Technician provides technical rescue standby for customer projects including confined ... Certification from the California Office of the Fire Marshal - State Fire Training; or Proof of ...

Rescue Technician (TPT) Total Safety is looking for a Rescue Technician to join their safety ... Certification from the California Office of the Fire Marshal - State Fire Training; or Proof of ...

The Rescue Technician provides technical rescue standby for customer projects including confined ... Certification from the California Office of the Fire Marshal - State Fire Training; or Proof of ...

The Rescue Technician provides technical rescue standby for customer projects including confined ... Certification from the California Office of the Fire Marshal - State Fire Training; or Proof of ...

The Rescue Technician provides technical rescue standby for customer projects including confined ... Certification from the California Office of the Fire Marshal - State Fire Training; or Proof of ...

$23/hr

The Rescue Technician provides technical rescue standby for customer projects including confined ... Certification from the California Office of the Fire Marshal - State Fire Training; or Proof of ...

Emergency Fire and Rescue

Northridge, CA ยท On-site

$17.50 - $20.50/hr

EMERGENCY, FIRE AND RESCUE JOBS IN THE NAVY DAMAGE CONTROLMAN Damage Controlmen are the first responders who are critical to preventing accidents. Trained in firefighting, ship stability and chemical ...

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Showing results 1-20

Fire Rescue information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$104.2K

$180.6K

How much do fire rescue jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire rescue in California is $104,194.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,000.00 and $122,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive in Fire Rescue, you need comprehensive knowledge of firefighting techniques, emergency medical procedures, and a high level of physical fitness, usually supported by relevant certifications such as EMT or Firefighter I/II. Familiarity with firefighting equipment, rescue tools, and communication systems like radios and incident command software is essential. Strong teamwork, quick decision-making, and resilience under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These capabilities are vital to effectively respond to emergencies, save lives, and ensure the safety of both the public and fellow responders.

What is the difference between Fire Rescue vs Firefighter?

AspectFire RescueFirefighter
CertificationsFirefighter I & II, EMT certificationFirefighter I & II, EMT certification
Work EnvironmentEmergency response, rescue operations, fire suppressionFire suppression, rescue, emergency medical services
Employer & IndustryFire departments, emergency servicesFire departments, emergency services
Common Search IntentDifferences between fire rescue and firefighter rolesRoles and responsibilities of firefighters

Fire Rescue and Firefighter roles often overlap, with both requiring similar certifications and working in fire departments. Fire Rescue typically emphasizes rescue operations and emergency response, while Firefighters focus on fire suppression and prevention. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right career path in emergency services.

What are some common challenges faced by fire rescue professionals during emergency responses?

Fire rescue professionals often encounter dynamic and high-pressure situations, such as rapidly evolving fires, hazardous materials, or medical emergencies. Challenges include maintaining clear communication with team members, ensuring personal safety while rescuing others, and making quick decisions with limited information. Additionally, they must adapt to various environments, from residential buildings to industrial sites, often while carrying heavy equipment. Strong teamwork and ongoing training help them manage these challenges effectively.

What are fire rescue jobs?

Fire rescue jobs involve professionals who respond to emergencies such as fires, accidents, and natural disasters. Their primary duties include extinguishing fires, rescuing people and animals from dangerous situations, providing emergency medical care, and educating the public about fire prevention. Fire rescue personnel work in high-pressure environments and are trained in firefighting, first aid, hazardous materials handling, and technical rescue operations. These roles are essential for ensuring public safety and often require physical fitness, teamwork, and quick decision-making skills.
What cities in California are hiring for Fire Rescue jobs? Cities in California with the most Fire Rescue job openings:
Infographic showing various Fire Rescue job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,194 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

Fire Lieutenant

City of Livingston, CA

Livingston, CA โ€ข On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 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