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Firefighter Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CNIC Careers

$52K/yr

This position requires the incumbent to possess the following certifications for the GS-7: Firefighter I and II, HAZMAT Technician, Airport Firefighter, Driver Operator Pumper, and Driver Operator ...

US Department of the Navy

$52K/yr

This position requires the incumbent to possess the following certifications for the GS-7: Firefighter I and II, HAZMAT Technician, Airport Firefighter, Driver Operator Pumper, and Driver Operator ...

US Department of the Navy

FIREFIGHTER

Barstow, CA

$46K/yr

Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Airport Firefighter,HazMat Operations, Driver Operator Pumper, and Driver Operator ARFF. These certifications must have been awarded by DoD, IFSAC or ProBoard to meet ...

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

$46K/yr

Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Airport Firefighter,HazMat Operations, Driver Operator Pumper, and Driver Operator ARFF. These certifications must have been awarded by DoD, IFSAC or ProBoard to meet ...

US Department of the Navy

FIREFIGHTER

Bridgeport, CA

$46K/yr

Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Airport Firefighter,HazMat Operations, Driver Operator Pumper, and Driver Operator ARFF. These certifications must have been awarded by DoD, IFSAC or ProBoard to meet ...

US Department of the Navy

$46K/yr

Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Airport Firefighter,HazMat Operations, Driver Operator Pumper, and Driver Operator ARFF. These certifications must have been awarded by DoD, IFSAC or ProBoard to meet ...

US Department of the Navy

FIREFIGHTER

Barstow, CA

$42K/yr

Hazardous Material Technician Driver/Operator Pumper Driver/Operator Aerial NOTE: FIREFIGHTER SPECIAL RETIREMENT COVERAGE MAXIMUM ENTRY AGE: Title 5 U.S.C. 3307 authorizes the head of any agency to ...

US Department of the Navy

$50K/yr

Firefighter I/II, Airport Firefighter, Hazmat Operations, Hazmat Technician, Driver Operator Pump, Driver Operator ARFF, and National Registered EMT. All certifications must be issued by the ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsFirefighter Driver JobsFirefighter Driver Jobs in California

Firefighter Driver information

See California salary details

$28.1K

$58.8K

$98.7K

How much do firefighter driver jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for firefighter driver in California is $58,826.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,900.00 and $68,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some unique challenges firefighter drivers face during emergency responses?

Firefighter drivers, also known as driver/operators or engineers, encounter unique challenges such as navigating large emergency vehicles through traffic and tight streets under stressful, time-sensitive conditions. They must remain highly alert to changing road situations, ensure the safety of the crew and public, and operate complex equipment like pumps and aerial ladders upon arrival. Additionally, they often assist with scene setup and may be responsible for maintaining the vehicle and equipment readiness throughout their shift.

What is a firefighter driver?

A firefighter driver is a firefighter responsible for operating fire trucks and emergency vehicles to respond quickly to fires and other emergencies. They must have a valid driver's license, often a commercial license, and are trained in vehicle operation, safety protocols, and sometimes basic firefighting skills. Their role is essential for ensuring rapid response and safe transportation of personnel and equipment to emergency scenes.

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

To thrive as a Firefighter Driver, you need a solid understanding of fire suppression techniques, emergency response procedures, and a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) or equivalent certification. Familiarity with fire apparatus, hydraulic systems, GPS navigation, and radio communication tools is typically required. Strong situational awareness, calm decision-making under pressure, and teamwork are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe and effective operation of emergency vehicles, timely response, and the overall safety of both crew and community during emergencies.

What is the difference between Firefighter Driver vs Firefighter?

AspectFirefighter DriverFirefighter
Required CertificationsFirefighter certification, driver/operator licenseFirefighter certification, EMT or paramedic license often preferred
Work EnvironmentOperate fire engines, drive emergency vehicles, assist in firefightingRespond to fires, rescue operations, and emergency medical calls
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, emergency servicesFire departments, emergency response agencies

Firefighter Drivers specialize in operating fire apparatus and driving emergency vehicles, while Firefighters focus on firefighting, rescue, and medical assistance. Both roles require firefighting certification, but Firefighter Drivers also need a valid driver’s license for emergency vehicles. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths within fire services.

What does 555 mean to a firefighter?

In firefighting, 555 is a common radio code used to indicate a fire alarm or emergency situation. Firefighters rely on radio codes for quick communication and situational awareness during emergency responses.

What are Firefighter Drivers?

Firefighter Drivers, also known as Fire Apparatus Operators or Engineer Drivers, are firefighters trained to operate and drive fire trucks and other emergency response vehicles. They are responsible for safely transporting crew members to emergency scenes and ensuring that all equipment arrives in good working order. In addition to driving, they handle the operation of pumps, aerial ladders, and other specialized apparatus at the scene. Firefighter Drivers must have a thorough knowledge of vehicle mechanics, safety protocols, and local routes to respond quickly and efficiently during emergencies.

How to become a firefighter driver?

To become a firefighter driver, candidates typically need to have a valid driver's license, often a commercial driver's license (CDL), and complete firefighter training and certification. Experience in emergency vehicle operation and knowledge of fire safety protocols are also important qualifications for this role.

How much does a firefighter driver make?

A firefighter driver, also known as a fire apparatus operator, typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and department size. They are responsible for driving fire trucks and often require specialized training and certifications. Salaries can vary based on union agreements and overtime opportunities.
What are popular job titles related to Firefighter Driver jobs in California? For Firefighter Driver jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Firefighter Driver jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Firefighter Driver jobs in California are:
Firefighter Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Firefighter Driver job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,826 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

FIREFIGHTER (BLS/HAZMAT TECHNICIAN)

CNIC Careers

$52K/yr

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

This is a public notice flyer to notify interested applicants of anticipated vacancies. Applications will not be accepted through this flyer. Interested applicants must follow the directions in the "How to Apply" section of this flyer to be considered. There may or may not be actual vacancies filled from this flyer. Notice of Result letters will not be sent to applicants who respond to this flyer.Qualifications:GS-06: Your resume must also demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-05 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following:
1) Controlling or extinguishing fires as a member of an organized military, industrial, volunteer, or governmental fire department/brigade;
2) Detecting, reducing, or eliminating potential fire hazards;
3) Controlling hazardous materials incidents;
4) Performing basic and routine medical procedures, and;
5) Performing rescue operations.
NOTE: This information must be supported in your resume to be considered for the position.
*This position requires the incumbent to possess the following certifications for the GS-6: Firefighter I and II, HAZMAT Operations. These certifications must have been awarded by DoD, IFSAC or Pro Board to meet the requirement. If you do not possess all of the above certifications and you have not attached copies of your certifications, you will be rated ineligible.
GS-07: Your resume must also demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-06 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following:
1) Controlling or extinguishing fires as a member of an organized military, industrial, volunteer, or governmental fire department/brigade;
2) Performing rescue operations;
3) Detecting, reducing, or eliminating potential fire hazards;
4) Controlling hazardous materials incidents;
5) Driving and operating firefighting vehicles; and
6) Performing non-invasive emergency medical procedures.
NOTE: This information must be supported in your resume to be considered for the position.
*This position requires the incumbent to possess the following certifications for the GS-7: Firefighter I and II, HAZMAT Technician, Airport Firefighter, Driver Operator Pumper, and Driver Operator ARFF, NREMT. These certifications must have been awarded by DoD, IFSAC or Pro Board to meet the requirement. If you do not possess all of the above certifications and you have not attached copies of your certifications, you will be rated ineligible
Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website:
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0000/fire-protection-and-prevention-series-0081/
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.Education:This job does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER

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