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Fire Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Costa Mesa

Fire Chief

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$222K - $297K/yr

... science, public administration, or a closely related field; Certification as a Chief Fire Officer by the California State Board of Fire Services; and knowledge of the principles, practices and ...

City of Costa Mesa, CA

Fire Chief

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$222K - $297K/yr

... science, public administration, or a closely related field; Certification as a Chief Fire Officer by the California State Board of Fire Services; and knowledge of the principles, practices and ...

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Fire Science information

See California salary details

$26.2K

$61.8K

$98.7K

How much do fire science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire science in California is $61,845.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,900.00 and $71,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is fire science?

Fire science is the study of the behavior, spread, and control of fire. It combines principles from chemistry, physics, engineering, and environmental science to understand how fires start, how they can be prevented, and how they are extinguished. Professionals in fire science often work in firefighting, fire investigation, fire prevention, and safety education. The field also covers topics like fire safety codes, emergency management, and hazardous materials handling.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in fire science?

To thrive in Fire Science, you need a solid understanding of fire behavior, emergency response procedures, and safety regulations, typically supported by a degree in fire science or a related certification. Familiarity with fire suppression equipment, incident command systems, and hazardous materials protocols is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this field. These skills are important to ensure effective emergency response, minimize risks, and protect lives and property during fire-related incidents.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in fire science roles, and how can I prepare for them?

Professionals in fire science often encounter physically demanding environments, high-stress emergency situations, and the need to make rapid, informed decisions. Additionally, staying updated on evolving fire safety regulations and technology is crucial. To prepare, you should focus on building both your physical fitness and technical knowledge, develop strong communication skills for effective teamwork, and pursue ongoing education or certifications to remain current in the field.

Is a fire science degree worth it?

A fire science degree provides foundational knowledge in fire behavior, safety protocols, and emergency response, which can enhance job prospects in firefighting, fire inspection, and emergency management. Many roles also require certifications such as Firefighter I and II, and practical experience is highly valued. The degree can improve advancement opportunities and earning potential in the fire service industry.

What careers can you get with a fire science degree?

A fire science degree prepares individuals for careers such as firefighter, fire inspector, fire investigator, emergency management director, and fire safety officer. These roles often require knowledge of fire behavior, safety protocols, and may require certifications like EMT or fire service training, with work environments including fire departments, safety agencies, and emergency response teams.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Fire Science jobs?

Cities in California with the most Fire Science job openings:

Fire Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Science job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,845 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Adjunct Faculty, Fire Science

Lake Tahoe Community College

South Lake Tahoe, CA • On-site

$821/wk

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Position
Adjunct Faculty, Fire Science
Department
Fire Science
Initial Screening Date
Preferred Start Date
Details
Lake Tahoe Community College (LTCC) welcomes adjunct instructors who are able to teach in the Fire Science discipline and illustrate a commitment to fostering a learning environment where resources are devoted to developing opportunities for students to break barriers and thrive as scholars and community members.
  • The teaching assignment may require teaching lecture-discussion courses during day, evening, or on Saturday and/or in an on-line/distance education format.
  • The assignments are based on departmental need on a quarter-by-quarter basis.
  • Applicant will secure and maintain home internet access during the duration of their employment to ensure regular and consistent contact with students.

Lake Tahoe Community College is committed to recruiting individuals that embody its commitment to diversity (BP 7100) by:
  • actively demonstrating a commitment to embracing and celebrating diversity;
  • committing to collaboration, effective communication and the development of strong working relationships;
  • promoting purposeful inclusion of all groups and the free exchange of ideas in a respectful, trusting and considerate environment; and
  • demonstrating a commitment to an environment where all students achieve their goals and have access to equitable resources and opportunities.

The ideal candidates for this position is an equity-minded individual who understands the importance of holding ourselves accountable for closing equity gaps and engaging in equitable practices both in and out of the classroom. LTCC strives to attract candidates who view the elimination of inequities as an individual and collective responsibility and who are able to reframe inequities as a problem of practice. In addition, the ideal candidate is able to demonstrate a commitment to student-centered teaching practices, effective cross-disciplinary and cross campus collaboration, transparent decision-making, and purposeful service to the community. The ideal candidate embraces the role of an educator who is continually learning anti-racist pedagogy and adapting to the needs of a diverse student population.
The ideal candidates will have the ability to utilize culturally responsive teaching and pedagogy to support students.
Starting at $821 per unit, see salary schedule 15-00 Part-Time Academic for compensation information.
Description
REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES:
Under the direction of the Dean of Workforce Development and Instruction, teach assigned courses in the Fire Science discipline's curriculum.
Minimum References Needed
3
Employment Standards
Minimum Qualification
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Requirements: All faculty must meet state-adopted minimum qualifications or the locally established equivalencies. Please review minimum qualifications handbook produced by the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office.
Fire Science
  • Any bachelor's degree or higher plus two years of professional experience,
  • Or any associate degree plus six years of professional experience,
  • Or the equivalent.

AND
  • Must be a registered "Lead Skills Evaluators and Skills Evaluators" instructor with California State Fire Training

NOTE: Applicants who claim equivalent qualifications shall provide conclusive evidence that they possess qualifications that are at least equivalent to those required by the minimum qualifications of the area for which they are applying. It is the responsibility of the applicant to supply all evidence and documentation for the claim of equivalency at the time of application.

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