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Firefighting Instructor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of San Bruno, CA

Fire Cadet

San Bruno, CA · On-site

Possession of a Firefighter I Academy certification (or proof of "student in good standing" letter signed by an Academy Instructor if currently enrolled) * 18 years of age at the time of application ...

City of San Bruno, CA

Fire Cadet

San Bruno, CA · On-site

Possession of a Firefighter I Academy certification (or proof of "student in good standing" letter signed by an Academy Instructor if currently enrolled) * 18 years of age at the time of application ...

City of San Bruno

Fire Cadet

San Bruno, CA · On-site

In your application, please upload 1) EMT Certificate 2) Firefighter I Academy certification (or proof of "student in good standing" letter signed by an Academy Instructor if currently enrolled) 3) ...

City of San Bruno, CA

Fire Cadet

San Bruno, CA · On-site

Possession of a Firefighter I Academy certification (or proof of "student in good standing" letter signed by an Academy Instructor if currently enrolled) * 18 years of age at the time of application ...

Canyons School District

$89.24/hr

Experience working in Public Safety including Law Enforcement, Firefighting, etc. * Experience ... College Instructor Credential in Kinesiology/Physical Education? If yes, submit applicable ...

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Firefighting Instructor information

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$33.1K

$58.8K

$117.4K

How much do firefighting instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for firefighting instructor in California is $58,780.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,400.00 and $64,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Firefighting Instructor vs Firefighter?

AspectFirefighting InstructorFirefighter
CertificationsFirefighting certification, instructor certificationFirefighting certification, EMT certification often required
Work EnvironmentTraining facilities, classrooms, on-site trainingFire scenes, emergency response, fire stations
Primary RoleTeach firefighting techniques, safety protocols, and training programsRespond to fires, rescue operations, emergency response

While both roles require firefighting certifications, Firefighting Instructors focus on training and educating others in fire safety and techniques, often working in classrooms or training facilities. Firefighters, on the other hand, are primarily involved in responding to emergencies and fighting fires in the field. The two roles are interconnected but serve different functions within the fire service industry.

What are some common challenges faced by Firefighting Instructors when training new recruits?

Firefighting Instructors often encounter challenges such as adapting training methods to suit recruits with varying experience levels and physical abilities. Ensuring safety during realistic, hands-on drills is a top priority and requires constant vigilance. Additionally, instructors must keep recruits engaged and motivated while teaching both technical skills and critical decision-making under pressure. Balancing administrative duties, such as developing curriculum and maintaining training records, alongside practical instruction is also a key aspect of the role.

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

To thrive as a Firefighting Instructor, you need extensive firefighting experience, relevant fire science certifications, and comprehensive knowledge of fire safety protocols. Familiarity with training simulators, instructional technology, and certification programs such as NFPA Instructor I or II is typically required. Strong communication, leadership, and mentoring abilities distinguish outstanding instructors in this field. These skills and qualifications are crucial for effectively training future firefighters, ensuring safety, and maintaining high professional standards.

What are Firefighting Instructors?

Firefighting Instructors are professionals who teach and train individuals in the skills and knowledge needed for firefighting and emergency response. They design and lead courses on fire safety, rescue techniques, hazardous materials handling, and the use of firefighting equipment. Instructors often have significant field experience as firefighters themselves and use real-world scenarios to prepare trainees for emergencies. Their role is crucial in ensuring that firefighting personnel are well-prepared, safe, and effective when responding to fires and other incidents.
What are popular job titles related to Firefighting Instructor jobs in California? For Firefighting Instructor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Firefighting Instructor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Firefighting Instructor jobs in California are:
Firefighting Instructor jobs near you
Shipboard Damage Control Instructor

Shipboard Damage Control Instructor

Prevailance, Inc.

San Diego, CA

$40K - $70K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Description

This position is currently filled, but we are accepting applications for Ready Replacement Pool consideration.


Prevailance is seeking a mission-focused professional to support the Surface Warfare Schools Command (SWSC) as a Damage Control (DC) Firefighting Contractor Instructor. The instructor will deliver technical and military training, including instruction, testing, remediation, curriculum updates, administration, and safety services for formalized naval training.


Responsibilities:

  • Provide technical and military training to Department of Defense (DoD) personnel, including U.S. Navy and Allied Forces officers and enlisted personnel
  • Support curriculum updates and maintenance, testing, and remediation
  • Utilize training aids, electronic podiums, lab equipment, and other instructional tools effectively
  • Ensure adherence to safety protocols during training evolutions

Requirements

Qualifications:

  • Graduate of the Navy Instructor Training Course (CIN: A-012-0077) or equivalent (NEC 9502)
  • At least three (3) years of technical experience in Damage Control
  • At least two (2) years of experience in a Military Training Environment
  • Strong knowledge of learning principles, presentation methods, testing, remediation, and training equipment
  • Comprehensive knowledge of safety protocols, diesel inspection processes, and shipboard firefighting and damage control procedures

Specific Qualifications:

  • Former Senior (E5-E9) Surface Ship Damage Controlman or similar rating
  • Graduate of at least seven (7) of the following courses:
    • General Shipboard Firefighting Training - SCBA (A-495-0416)
    • Shipboard Firefighting Integrated Team Trainer (A-495-0018)
    • Shipboard Firefighting / Damage Control Emergency Team Member (A-495-0021)
    • Shipboard Aircraft Firefighting (J-495-0413)
    • Air Capable Ship Helicopter Firefighting (J-495-0414)
    • Advanced Shipboard Firefighting (J-495-0419)
    • Damage Control Repair Party Team Leader (K-495-0040)
    • Shipboard Damage Control Team Trainer (K-495-0045)
    • Damage Control Petty Officer (K-495-0440)
    • AFFF Foam Generation (K-495-2179)
    • Gas Free Engineering (K-495-0051)
  • Capable of performing all high-risk training evolutions, including ascending/descending ladders, navigating narrow passageways, enduring extreme heat, and lifting up to 50 lbs

Desired Qualifications:

  • Navy Damage Controlman Chief Petty Officer (CPO) or Engineering Department Leader (e.g., EN, GS, EM) preferred
  • Experience with ATG or holding the NEC 9502 Basic Instructor designation
  • Shipboard firefighting experience
  • Current Basic EMT qualification or higher

Education:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • NEC 9502 Navy Instructor or equivalent certification

Clearance:

  • Must be able to obtain a favorable background clearance

If you meet these qualifications and are ready to make an impact, we encourage you to apply today!

Prevailance, Inc. proudly supports veterans as a member of the V3 (Virginia Values Veterans) program and the Hire Vets initiative. Recognized as a Top Workplace in 2025, Prevailance fosters a supportive, mission-driven environment for its team members. We provide a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees, designed to support health, wellness, and financial security. Our benefits include:

  • Medical Insurance
  • TriCare Supplemental
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life & Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Coverage
  • 401(k) Plan with Company Matching Contributions
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • 11 Paid Holidays
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Computing Device Reimbursement Program 

Prevailance, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, age, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, marital status or any other consideration prohibited by law or contract. Prevailance, Inc. participates in E-Verify and is VEVRAA Compliant.  

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