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Firefighter Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Hayward

Firefighter Trainee

Hayward, CA · On-site

$122K - $128K/yr

Firefighter Trainee benefits are limited to those of a civilian employee. The position of ... License: Possession of a Class "C" California Driver's License. The ability to obtain by ...

City of Kingsburg, CA

PT Firefighter/EMT

Kingsburg, CA · On-site

$21.49/hr

... driver certificate. 4. Possession of a Fire Fighter I certification or completion of an approved Basic Firefighter I Academy from an Accredited Regional Training Program by California State Fire ...

City of Hayward, CA

Firefighter Trainee

Hayward, CA · On-site

$122K - $128K/yr

Firefighter Trainee benefits are limited to those of a civilian employee. The position of ... License: * Possession of a Class "C" California Driver's License. * The ability to obtain by ...

GovernmentJobs.com

Paramedic/Firefighter

Salinas, CA · On-site

Firefighter Paramedic The Monterey County Regional Fire District will be accepting applications ... Valid California driver's license with a driving record acceptable to the District insurance ...

City of Kingsburg, CA

PT Firefighter/EMT

Kingsburg, CA · On-site

$21.49/hr

... driver certificate. 4. Possession of a Fire Fighter I certification or completion of an approved Basic Firefighter I Academy from an Accredited Regional Training Program by California State Fire ...

City of Kingsburg

PT Firefighter/Paramedic

Kingsburg, CA · On-site

$26.85/hr

... driver certificate. 4. Possession of a Fire Fighter I certification or completion of an approved Basic Firefighter I Academy from an Accredited Regional Training Program by California State Fire ...

City of Kingsburg

PT Firefighter/EMT

Kingsburg, CA · On-site

$21.49/hr

... driver certificate. 4. Possession of a Fire Fighter I certification or completion of an approved Basic Firefighter I Academy from an Accredited Regional Training Program by California State Fire ...

City of Ventura

Firefighter-Paramedic Recruit

Ventura, CA · On-site

$5.8K - $7.4K/mo

Firefighter-Paramedic Recruits undergo an 18-week fire academy and may undergo additional ... Current California Class C driver license with an acceptable driving record. * Current and valid ...

City of Kingsburg, CA

PT Firefighter/EMT

Kingsburg, CA

$21.49/hr

... driver certificate. 4. Possession of a Fire Fighter I certification or completion of an approved Basic Firefighter I Academy from an Accredited Regional Training Program by California State Fire ...

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Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 22, 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 is a firefighter driver?

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.

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 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.

How much do firefighter drivers make?

Firefighter drivers, also known as fire apparatus operators, typically earn a median annual salary between $45,000 and $65,000, depending on experience, location, and department size. They often require certifications such as EMT or paramedic training and work in high-pressure environments with irregular hours.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% 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/Paramedic

GovernmentJobs.com

Apple Valley, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Firefighter Paramedic

Apple Valley Fire Protection District is currently recruiting for the position of Firefighter Paramedic establishing an eligibility list to fill vacancies.

Annual Salary Listed is as of 07/01/2026 and includes $550.00 per Month in Paramedic Pay, FLSA Pay, Annual Holiday Pay and Annual Uniform Pay.

Under supervision, the Firefighter Paramedic will respond to fires, medical emergencies, rescues and other situations, both emergency and non-emergency, as required. The Firefighter Paramedic will be expected to participate in daily fire station activities, including maintenance of the station, grounds, and equipment; various training activities, and other duties as assigned.

Typical Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Certified California State Firefighter I or completion of an accredited California State Firefighter I Academy.
  • Current valid ICEMA EMT-P accreditation. ICEMA accreditation includes California State paramedic license & ACLS certification.
  • Applicant may receive ICEMA approval during the application process. Applicant must have received their ICEMA certification by the time of their appointment.
  • Valid California Class C Driver's License. Applicant must obtain Firefighter Endorsement for valid California driver's license within one year of hire.
  • Successful completion of either a Biddle certification or CPAT (Candidate Physical Ability Test) certification within 12 months of application deadline or by position appointment. Apple Valley Fire Protection District employees may provide proof of successful completion of the District approved in-house physical agility test.
Supplemental Information

Applications, résumés, and related documents will be reviewed. The most qualified candidates will be invited to participate in the selection process, which may include a written examination, practical assessment, and interview process. The Fire Chief will make the appointments. Candidates will be notified of invitation to the written test which will be based on IFSTA (7th Edition) and American Heart ACLS guidelines.

Benefits
  • Cafeteria Plan: Employees may select from a cafeteria plan of medical, dental, and vision insurance offered by the District. Along with the CalPERS required 2026 contribution of $162 per month towards a CalPERS selected health plan, the District also provides a tiered supplemental benefit contribution of $600 for a single person; $1,250 for two people and $1,700 for a family to use for health premium and/or selections of dental and/or vision coverage.
  • Safety retirement is provided by Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS). Classic Retirement Formula is 2% @ 55. Employee portion towards retirement is 7%. PEPRA Retirement Formula is 2% @ 57. Current employee portion towards retirement is 11.75%.
  • Vacation: 144 hours per year.
  • Sick Leave: 12 hours per month.
  • Holidays: 13 paid holidays per year (paid out annually as a holiday check)
  • Uniform Allowance: $850 per year
  • Education Incentive for Associates Degree ($600.00 Annual), Bachelor's Degree ($1,200 Annual), Master's Degree ($1,800.00 Annual)
  • Life Insurance: The District provides life insurance for the employee equal to 100% of annual salary.
  • Deferred Compensation is available for employees who want to supplement their retirement income. Plan has a pre-tax contribution option as well as Roth contribution option. For Tier 2 and PEPRA employees, the Fire District contributes $3,000 annually to their Deferred Compensation account each January. Additionally, if the employee contributes $500 during the calendar year, the District will match 2-for-1, contributing up to an additional $1,000 per year. Total District contribution of up to $4,000 annually.
  • $1,000 Annual Education Allowance

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