1

Fire Response Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Fire Captain

Livingston, CA ยท On-site

$71K - $105K/yr

First aid, CPR, and emergency medical response techniques. * Principles and practices of supervision, training, and fire service administration. Ability to: * Plan, direct, and coordinate fire ...

Fire Lieutenant

Livingston, CA ยท On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

The position participates in fire suppression, emergency medical response, rescue, and fire prevention activities, and provides leadership, training, and direction to assigned staff. Distinguishing ...

Fire Lieutenant

Livingston, CA ยท On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

The position participates in fire suppression, emergency medical response, rescue, and fire prevention activities, and provides leadership, training, and direction to assigned staff. Distinguishing ...

Fire Captain

Livingston, CA ยท On-site

$71K - $105K/yr

Description Definition Under general direction, the Fire Captain commands a fire station during an assigned shift; supervises, plans, and participates in fire suppression, emergency medical response ...

Fire Captain

Tulare, CA

$8.7K - $10K/mo

Why This Role Matters As a Fire Captain, you are not just a manager; you are the backbone of our emergency response. You will run your own station, command high-stakes incidents, and directly shape ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Fire Response information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$104.2K

$180.6K

How much do fire response jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire response 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 some common challenges faced by professionals in fire response roles, and how are they addressed?

Fire Response professionals often encounter challenges such as high-stress situations, exposure to hazardous environments, and the need for rapid decision-making. These challenges are addressed through rigorous training, strong teamwork, and continuous drills that simulate real-life emergencies. Departments typically provide support systems, such as debriefing sessions and counseling, to help responders manage stress and maintain mental well-being. Collaboration and clear communication among team members are crucial for safely and effectively handling emergency incidents.

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

To thrive as a Firefighter, you need physical fitness, knowledge of fire safety protocols, and completion of firefighter training and certification (such as EMT or Firefighter I/II). Familiarity with firefighting equipment, breathing apparatus, rescue tools, and incident management systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are essential soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring effective emergency response, personal safety, and the protection of lives and property during fire incidents.

What is the difference between Fire Response vs Firefighter?

AspectFire ResponseFirefighter
Required CertificationsFire Response teams often require EMT or paramedic certifications, along with basic fire response training.Firefighters typically need firefighter certifications, EMT or paramedic licenses, and specialized fire academy training.
Work EnvironmentResponds to emergencies, including fires, accidents, and hazardous situations, often in various locations.Works primarily at fire stations and on fire scenes, performing rescue and suppression tasks.
Employer & Industry UsageEmergency response teams, fire departments, and rescue services.Municipal fire departments, industrial fire brigades, and rescue units.

Fire Response personnel focus on emergency response and rescue operations, often requiring additional medical certifications. Firefighters are trained primarily for fire suppression and rescue at fire scenes. Both roles are vital in emergency services but differ in scope and training emphasis.

What is a fire response job?

Fire response jobs involve professionals who are trained to respond quickly to fires and other emergencies, such as hazardous material incidents, rescues, and natural disasters. These roles typically include firefighters, fire inspectors, and fire investigators, among others. Fire response personnel are responsible for extinguishing fires, rescuing individuals from dangerous situations, providing emergency medical care, and educating the public about fire prevention. They often work in high-pressure environments and must be physically fit and trained in various emergency procedures. Fire response teams play a crucial role in protecting lives, property, and the environment.
What cities in California are hiring for Fire Response jobs? Cities in California with the most Fire Response job openings:
Infographic showing various Fire Response job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, and 31% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $104,194 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

CA Wildfire Response Cash Program Coordinator

CORE Community Organized Relief Effort

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$32.98/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description
About CORE Response
CORE (Community Organized Relief Effort) is dedicated to providing emergency relief in times of crisis. Our Fire Response team is committed to supporting individuals and families affected by wildfires in Southern California. Through our CVA (Cash & Voucher Assistance) Program, we aim to provide immediate financial assistance to those in need, helping them recover and rebuild.
Position Summary
We are seeking a compassionate, detail-oriented, and highly organized Program Coordinator to support the Wildfire Response Cash Program. In this key role, the Program Coordinator will collaborate closely with the Cash & Voucher Assistance (CVA) Program Manager to oversee the implementation and optimization of systems and processes for beneficiary verification and fund distribution during Phase 3 of the wildfire recovery response. The Program Coordinator will serve as a primary point of contact for program participants, ensuring timely follow-up, verification, and troubleshooting to resolve issues in the redemption process.
This position demands a strong problem-solver with high emotional intelligence and the ability to work efficiently under pressure. The Program Coordinator will work alongside the CVA Program Manager and volunteers to ensure successful delivery of program services. A strong commitment to CORE's mission of supporting vulnerable communities is essential.
Key Responsibilities
  • Co-lead the coordination of Phase 3 of the Wildfire Response Cash Program, ensuring smooth execution of verification and fund disbursement processes in a timely manner.
  • Collaborate with volunteers to provide comprehensive support to beneficiaries, addressing inquiries, completing applications, resolving issues, and ensuring they fully understand the process for cash assistance.
  • Oversee the collection of required documentation from beneficiaries, guiding them through the verification and distribution process.
  • Manage the tracking of interactions, issues, and resolutions using CORE's tracking system, ensuring accuracy and transparency.
  • Address complex issues related to payment distribution, application errors, or missing information, escalating as necessary to the CVA Program Manager.
  • Ensure the confidentiality and security of all beneficiaries for personal and financial information, adhering to program protocols.
  • Provide regular updates and reports on the program's status, ensuring effective communication with stakeholders, including beneficiaries and internal teams.
  • Provide support in training and guidance to volunteers, ensuring they are equipped to address beneficiary inquiries and application needs.
  • Foster a supportive and empathetic approach to all interactions with disaster-affected individuals, maintaining the program's human-centered service delivery focus.

Qualifications & Skills
  • Previous experience in program management, project management, or a similar role, ideally within non-profit, social services, or emergency response settings.
  • Strong knowledge of program management, including system design, workflow management, and the ability to ensure timely and accurate execution of tasks.
  • Exceptional communication skills, capable of conveying complex information clearly and empathetically in both written and verbal formats.
  • High emotional intelligence and patience, with the ability to navigate sensitive and difficult conversations with individuals in crisis situations.
  • Proven ability to multitask, problem-solve, and manage teams in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.
  • Proficiency with technology, including customer service software, email, phone systems, and data tracking tools.
  • Bilingual proficiency (Spanish, Armenian, or other languages spoken in affected communities) is a plus.
  • Experience with disaster response programs, cash assistance, or financial assistance initiatives is highly preferred.
  • Strong collaborative skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders to achieve program objectives and deliver quality service to beneficiaries.

Core Competencies
  • Empathy & Compassion: Demonstrates deep understanding and care for those experiencing hardship.
  • Adaptability: Able to respond to changing needs and unexpected challenges.
  • Attention to Detail: Ensures accuracy in documentation and communications.
  • Team Collaboration: Works effectively with the Cash & Voucher Assistance Program Manager and other CORE team members to improve service delivery.
  • Problem-Solving: Quickly assesses issues and provides appropriate solutions or guidance.

Travel is required. Must be able to commute to CORE's Resource Center in Altadena at least three times per week and as needed to support program operations.