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Fire Watch Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Allied Universal

Security Officer - Area Flex

Merced, CA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Watch for irregular or unusual conditions that may create security concerns or safety hazards * Sound alarms or calls police or fire department in case of fire or presence of unauthorized persons

Vallarta Supermarkets

Security Officer D4

Merced, CA · On-site

$20 - $22.50/hr

Maintain a Professional relationship and Communication with Law Enforcement, Fire Departments, and emergency medical personnel. * Contribute and assist the Asset Protection team's efforts in ...

All JobsFire Watch JobsFire Watch Jobs in Merced, CA

Fire Watch information

See Merced, CA salary details

$32.7K

$80.3K

$122.5K

How much do fire watch jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire watch in Merced, CA is $80,295.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,400.00 and $97,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fire watch?

The job of a fire watch professional is to monitor an area for a possible emergency. These roles are found anywhere there is a potential fire hazard, such as in welding or a shipyard, or in the absence of a sufficient emergency alert system. The job of a professional in welding is to monitor soldering or activities to ensure no smoldering fires break out. Other duties of someone in this role are to alert or notify emergency professionals if necessary, communicate with team members, and facilitate public or workplace safety. The qualifications you need to get a fire watch job vary, but specialized training may be required. Fire watch is subject to federal regulations through OSHA.

What are the duties and responsibilities of a fire watch?

Fire Watch personnel are responsible for monitoring areas where hot work, such as welding or cutting, is being performed to prevent fires. Their main duties include identifying potential fire hazards, ensuring fire extinguishing equipment is available, maintaining a clear evacuation route, and sounding the alarm or taking action if a fire occurs. They must stay vigilant throughout their shift and cannot perform other tasks during their watch. Fire Watch is often required by safety regulations in environments with increased fire risk.

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

To thrive as a Fire Watch, you need a strong understanding of fire safety procedures, hazard identification, and often a valid occupational safety certification such as OSHA. Familiarity with fire suppression equipment, alarm systems, and standard reporting tools is typically required. Attention to detail, vigilance, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are important to ensure rapid response to fire hazards, maintain workplace safety, and prevent accidents in high-risk environments.

What are the most common challenges faced by fire watch personnel on construction sites, and how can they be addressed?

Fire Watch personnel on construction sites often face challenges such as staying alert during long shifts, working in hazardous or changing environments, and effectively communicating with other site workers. To address these challenges, it's important to take scheduled breaks, use checklists to ensure thorough inspections, and participate in regular safety briefings. Building strong communication with the construction team helps ensure that any fire hazards are reported and resolved quickly, maintaining a safe work environment for everyone.

What is the difference between Fire Watch vs Fire Extinguisher Technician?

AspectFire WatchFire Extinguisher Technician
CertificationsOSHA, Fire Watch trainingFire Extinguisher, OSHA, possibly NFPA certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial areas, during hot workFire safety inspections, extinguisher maintenance, service centers
Employer & IndustryConstruction companies, industrial facilitiesFire safety service companies, maintenance providers

Fire Watch and Fire Extinguisher Technician roles both involve fire safety but differ in focus. Fire Watch primarily monitors for fire hazards during construction or hot work, requiring OSHA and fire watch training. Fire Extinguisher Technicians inspect, maintain, and refill fire extinguishers, often needing NFPA certifications. While both roles serve fire safety, Fire Watch is more about supervision during specific activities, whereas Fire Extinguisher Technicians focus on equipment maintenance.

Are fire watch jobs hard to get?

Fire watch jobs are generally accessible but often require specific training, certifications, and adherence to safety protocols. Employers may prefer candidates with relevant experience or knowledge of fire safety procedures, which can influence the ease of obtaining such positions.

Do fire watch jobs still exist?

Fire watch jobs are still available and involve monitoring for fire hazards in construction sites, industrial facilities, or during maintenance work. These roles typically require safety training, fire extinguisher knowledge, and adherence to OSHA regulations. They are often temporary and scheduled around specific projects or inspections.

How do I get a job as a fire watch?

To get a fire watch job, candidates typically need to complete a fire watch training course and obtain any required certifications, such as OSHA or fire safety training. Employers often look for good observation skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work overnight or in hazardous environments. Prior experience in safety or construction sites can also improve chances of employment.
More about Fire Watch jobs

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Fire Watch jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Fire Watch job openings:

Fire Watch jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Watch job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,295 per year, or $38.6 per hour.

Fire Apparatus Engineer

Livingston, CA • On-site

City of Livingston, CA
See more jobs at City of Livingston, CAexternal

$58K - $86K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Salary : $58,628.00 - $86,494.00 Annually
Location : Livingston Fire Station, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202400037
Department: Fire Services
Division: Fire Services
Opening Date: 02/18/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
Definition
Under general supervision, the Fire Apparatus Engineer drives and operates assigned fire engines and other emergency apparatus in response to fire, medical, rescue, and other emergency calls; performs firefighting, emergency medical, and fire prevention activities; and assists Fire Officers with tactical operations, training, and station maintenance.
Distinguishing Characteristics
The Fire Apparatus Engineer is the first-level full-time driver/operator classification within the Fire Department. Incumbents are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of fire apparatus and associated mechanical equipment during emergency and non-emergency operations. Employees may serve as relief engineers and may be assigned to various stations or shifts to cover absences due to vacation, training, or other operational needs.
Supervision Received and Exercised
Received: General supervision from a Fire Lieutenant, Fire Captain, or higher-level Fire Department staff.
Exercised: May provide indirect supervision or lead direction to firefighters and extra-help personnel in the absence of a Fire Officer.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Respond to fire, medical, rescue, and other emergency alarms by driving and operating assigned fire apparatus.
  • Operate pumps, ladders, generators, and other mechanical firefighting and rescue equipment.
  • Assist in fire suppression, emergency medical care, rescue operations, and protection of life, property, and the environment.
  • Perform routine inspections, servicing, and minor repairs of fire apparatus, equipment, and tools.
  • Assist Fire Officers with tactical incident management and direct activities of firefighters until relieved by a Fire Officer.
  • Participate in residential and commercial fire inspections to identify and eliminate potential fire hazards.
  • Assist in providing public education related to fire prevention and life safety.
  • Support Fire Officers in training activities, drills, and skill development programs for fire personnel.
  • Maintain fire stations, grounds, and equipment to ensure operational readiness.
  • Prepare and maintain records and reports related to apparatus operation, incidents, and maintenance.
  • Ensure compliance with established safety standards, policies, and procedures.
  • Attend required training sessions, drills, and continuing education programs.
  • Assist in fire investigations and origin-and-cause determinations 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 suppression and fire prevention methods, including use of the Incident Command System (ICS).
  • Operation, use, and maintenance of fire engines and firefighting apparatus.
  • Basic principles of fire prevention, building construction, fire inspections, and pre-fire planning.
  • Mechanical principles related to fire apparatus and allied equipment.
  • Emergency medical response, including EMT, CPR, and AED procedures.

Ability to:
  • Safely and effectively operate fire apparatus under emergency conditions.
  • Apply fire suppression and prevention techniques.
  • Analyze emergency situations quickly and take appropriate action.
  • Follow oral and written instructions and communicate clearly.
  • Work effectively with diverse populations, coworkers, and other agencies.
  • Maintain accurate records and prepare clear, concise reports.
  • Operate radio communication and modern office equipment.

Education and Experience
  • Education: Equivalent to completion of the twelfth (12th) grade.
  • Experience: Fire service experience sufficient to demonstrate competency as a Fire Apparatus Engineer, as determined by the City.

Licenses and Certifications
Required at time of appointment and to be maintained throughout employment:
  • Valid California driver's license.
  • Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) certification.
  • Professional Rescuer CPR/AED certification.
  • California State Fire Training Firefighter I certification.
  • Valid CPAT certificate at time of appointment.

Additional certifications may be required to be obtained within specified timeframes pursuant to City policy.
Desirable Qualifications
  • Vocational Certificate or coursework in Fire Technology.
  • Firefighter II certification.
  • State Fire Training Driver/Operator 1A and 1B certifications.
  • Rescue Systems, RIC Operations, Low Angle Rescue, Confined Space Rescue, or Firefighter Survival certifications.

Physical and Working Conditions
  • Ability to perform strenuous physical activity under hazardous and emergency conditions, including lifting, climbing, bending, and working in extreme heat, smoke, and adverse 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 does not list every duty or qualification. 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 Fire service experience sufficient to demonstrate competency as a Fire Apparatus Engineer, as determined by the City?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you possess a valid California Driver's License?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you possess a valid Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) certification?
  • Yes
  • No

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

05
Do you possess a valid California State Fire Training Firefighter I certification?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Are you able to provide proof of a valid CPAT certificate at time of appointment?
  • Yes
  • No

07
Do you possess a vocational certificate or coursework in Fire Technology?
  • Yes
  • No

08
Do you a valid Firefighter II certification?
  • Yes
  • No

09
Do you possess valid State Fire Training Driver/Operator 1A and 1B certifications?
10
Are you available to work the required rotating shifts, nights, weekends, holidays, and emergency call-back assignments?
  • Yes
  • No

11
Do you have experience in Rescue Systems, RIC Operations, Low Angle Rescue, Confined Space Rescue, or Firefighter Survival certifications.
12
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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