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Firefighter Lieutenant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Fire Lieutenant

Livingston, CA · On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

Distinguishing Characteristics The Fire Lieutenant is a first-line supervisory classification ... Direct supervision over Fire Apparatus Engineers, Firefighters, and extra-help or volunteer ...

Description Definition Under general supervision, the Fire Lieutenant performs the full range of firefighting duties and supervises personnel and operations during an assigned shift. In the absence ...

Work is performed within established policies and procedures and is reviewed by a Fire Lieutenant ... Firefighter I * Firefighter I/II * Certified Volunteer Firefighter* *Note that individuals who are ...

Work is performed within established policies and procedures and is reviewed by a Fire Lieutenant ... Firefighter I * Firefighter I/II * Certified Volunteer Firefighter* *Note that individuals who are ...

Works under close supervision of the Fire Lieutenant & Fire Apparatus Engineer. SUPERVISION ... Performs firefighting activities including driving fire apparatus, operating pumps, and related ...

... a Fire Lieutenant, Fire Captain, or Fire Chief. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS: Agencies provide ... Firefighter I and Firefighter II certification. * Passing score on the Candidate Physical Ability ...

... a Fire Lieutenant, Fire Captain, or Fire Chief. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS: Agencies provide ... Firefighter I and Firefighter II certification. * Passing score on the Candidate Physical Ability ...

Fire Captain

Livingston, CA · On-site

$71K - $105K/yr

... Lieutenant or equivalent supervisory fire service experience? * Yes * No 02 Do you possess a valid California Driver's License with appropriate firefighter endorsement? * Yes * No 03 Do you possess ...

Fire Captain

Livingston, CA · On-site

$71K - $105K/yr

Direct supervision over Fire Lieutenants, Firefighters, and extra-help or volunteer personnel as ... Two (2) years of full-time experience as a Fire Lieutenant or equivalent supervisory fire service ...

... a Fire Lieutenant, Fire Captain, or Fire Chief. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS: Agencies provide ... Firefighter I and Firefighter II certification. * Passing score on the Candidate Physical Ability ...

Firefighter Lieutenant information

See California salary details

$28.1K

$58.8K

$98.7K

How much do firefighter lieutenant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for firefighter lieutenant 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 lieutenant?

Firefighter Lieutenants are supervisory personnel in fire departments who oversee a team of firefighters during emergency responses and daily operations. They are responsible for managing their crew’s safety, training, and performance, as well as ensuring that firefighting equipment is properly maintained. Firefighter Lieutenants also coordinate on-scene activities, make tactical decisions, and often serve as the link between firefighters and higher-ranking officers. Their leadership is crucial in both emergency and non-emergency situations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a firefighter lieutenant?

To thrive as a Firefighter Lieutenant, you need advanced firefighting knowledge, emergency response leadership, and typically several years of firefighting experience along with relevant certifications such as Fire Officer I/II. Familiarity with incident command systems, firefighting apparatus, and emergency communication tools is essential. Strong decision-making, leadership, and communication skills help manage teams and coordinate during high-pressure situations. These abilities are crucial for ensuring effective emergency response, crew safety, and successful incident outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by a firefighter lieutenant when leading a team during emergency responses?

A Firefighter Lieutenant often faces the challenge of making quick, critical decisions while ensuring the safety and coordination of their team during high-pressure situations. Balancing effective communication, resource allocation, and tactical planning can be demanding, especially when unexpected hazards arise. Additionally, Lieutenants must manage the stress and emotional well-being of their crew, as well as maintain clear communication with other emergency services. Successful Lieutenants are adaptable, calm under pressure, and skilled at fostering teamwork in dynamic environments.

What is the difference between Firefighter Lieutenant vs Firefighter Captain?

AspectFirefighter LieutenantFirefighter Captain
CertificationsFirefighter certification, EMT/Paramedic license, Leadership trainingAll certifications of Lieutenant plus advanced leadership and management training
Work EnvironmentLeading fire crews during emergency responses, training, and station dutiesOverseeing multiple fire crews, strategic planning, and administrative responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, emergency servicesFire departments, emergency services

The Firefighter Lieutenant primarily leads fire crews during emergency responses and station activities, requiring certifications like EMT and leadership training. The Firefighter Captain holds a higher supervisory role, managing multiple crews and handling administrative duties. Both roles are essential in fire departments, with the Captain overseeing broader operations and strategic planning.

How long does it take to be a fire firefighter lieutenant?

Becoming a firefighter lieutenant typically requires several years of experience as a firefighter, usually around 5 to 7 years, along with demonstrated leadership skills and completion of relevant training and certifications. Advancement depends on department policies, individual performance, and additional qualifications such as fire officer courses. The process involves gaining experience, passing promotional exams, and often completing leadership development programs.

How much do firefighter lieutenants make in the US?

Firefighter lieutenants in the US typically earn an average annual salary between $60,000 and $85,000, depending on location, experience, and department size. They often hold leadership responsibilities, require certification, and work in emergency response environments with shift schedules.

What are popular job titles related to Firefighter Lieutenant jobs in California?

For Firefighter Lieutenant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Firefighter Lieutenant job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,826 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

$64K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Salary : $64,568.00 - $95,294.00 Annually
Location : Livingston Fire Station, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202400036
Department: Fire Services
Division: Fire Services
Opening Date: 02/18/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
Definition
Under general supervision, the Fire Lieutenant performs the full range of firefighting duties and supervises personnel and operations during an assigned shift. In the absence of a Fire Captain, the Fire Lieutenant assumes responsibility for station operations and incident command. The position participates in fire suppression, emergency medical response, rescue, and fire prevention activities, and provides leadership, training, and direction to assigned staff.
Distinguishing Characteristics
The Fire Lieutenant is a first-line supervisory classification within the Fire Department. Incumbents are responsible for shift supervision, tactical incident management, and day-to-day oversight of fire company operations. Fire Lieutenants provide direct supervision to Fire Apparatus Engineers, Firefighters, and extra-help personnel, and serve as acting station supervisors when higher-ranking officers are absent.
Supervision Received and Exercised
Received: General supervision from a Fire Captain or higher-level Fire Department staff.
Exercised: Direct supervision over Fire Apparatus Engineers, Firefighters, and extra-help or volunteer personnel as assigned.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Respond to fire, medical, rescue, and other emergency alarms and participate in emergency response operations.
  • Perform tactical incident management and direct the activities of fire personnel until relieved by a senior officer.
  • Supervise fire company personnel during assigned shifts, including scheduling, work assignments, and performance oversight.
  • Drive and operate fire apparatus; operate pumps, ladders, and other firefighting and rescue equipment as required.
  • Assist in fire suppression, emergency medical care, rescue operations, and protection of life, property, and the environment.
  • Conduct or assist in residential and commercial fire inspections to identify and eliminate fire hazards.
  • Provide public education in fire prevention and life safety practices.
  • Assist in planning, conducting, and evaluating training programs and drills for fire personnel.
  • Ensure fire stations, apparatus, and equipment are adequately maintained and operationally ready.
  • Prepare and maintain reports, records, and documentation related to incidents, personnel, training, and inspections.
  • Ensure compliance with departmental policies, procedures, safety standards, and applicable laws.
  • Assist in fire investigations and determination of fire origin and cause 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 prevention and suppression methods, including use of the Incident Command System (ICS).
  • Operation, use, and maintenance of firefighting apparatus and equipment.
  • Principles of fire prevention, building construction, fire inspections, and pre-fire planning.
  • Mechanical principles related to fire apparatus and allied equipment.
  • First aid, CPR, and emergency medical response techniques.
  • Firefighter Procedural Bill of Rights (FBOR).
  • Fire Department policies and procedures.

Ability to:
  • Supervise, train, and direct fire personnel during routine and emergency operations.
  • Plan, prioritize, and manage daily shift activities.
  • Analyze emergency situations quickly and adopt effective courses of action.
  • Make sound decisions under stressful and time-sensitive conditions.
  • Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, other agencies, and the public.
  • Prepare accurate and concise reports and maintain operational records.
  • Operate radio communications and modern office equipment.
  • Delegate tasks appropriately and provide leadership and mentorship to subordinates.

Education and Experience
  • Education: Equivalent to completion of the twelfth (12th) grade.
  • Experience: Two (2) years of full-time fire suppression and prevention experience, including at least one (1) year at the driver/operator or equivalent level, and completion of an Acting Company Officer task book or equivalent, as determined by the City.

Licenses and Certifications
Required at time of appointment and to be maintained throughout employment:
  • Valid California driver's license with appropriate firefighter endorsement.
  • Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-I or EMT-B) certification.
  • Professional Rescuer CPR/AED certification.
  • Hazardous Materials Incident Commander or equivalent certification.

Additional certifications may be required pursuant to City or departmental policy.
Desirable Qualifications
  • Associate degree or higher in Fire Technology, Fire Science, Public Administration, or a related field.
  • California State Fire Marshal Company Officer certification.

Physical and Working Conditions
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work under emergency conditions, including lifting, climbing, bending, and working in hazardous and extreme 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 is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. 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 two (2) years of full-time fire suppression and prevention experience, including at least one (1) year at the driver/operator or equivalent level, and completion of an Acting Company Officer task book or equivalent?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you possess a valid California Driver's License with appropriate firefighter endorsement?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you possess an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-I or EMT-B) certification?
  • Yes
  • No

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

05
Are you available to work the required rotating shifts, nights, weekends, holidays, and emergency call-back assignments?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Do you possess a Hazardous Materials Incident Commander or equivalent certification?
  • Yes
  • No

07
Do you possess a California State Fire Marshal Company Officer certification?
08
Do you possess an Associate Degree or higher in Fire Technology, Fire Science, Public Administration, or a related field?
  • Yes
  • No

09
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