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First Responder information

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$5

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$19

How much do first responder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for first responder in California is $18.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a first responder?

First responders are professionals who are among the first to arrive and provide assistance at the scene of an emergency, such as accidents, natural disasters, or medical crises. This group typically includes police officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and paramedics. Their primary role is to assess the situation, provide immediate care or intervention, and ensure the safety of those involved until further help arrives or the situation is under control. First responders are highly trained to handle high-pressure situations and often play a crucial role in saving lives and minimizing harm.

What do first responders do?

A first responder is an umbrella term for the first medically trained person to arrive on the scene of a medical emergency, accident, or other issue of public safety, such as an earthquake. This title usually includes police officers, firefighters, or EMTs. As a first responder, your primary responsibilities are to quickly and competently assess a situation and determine what other EMTs, police officers, or firefighters need to know when they arrive. You provide initial rescue or first aid care, but unless you are an EMT, you save more advanced medical care for when the ambulance arrives. In other words, a firefighter may provide CPR to an accident victim, but they stop when the more qualified first responder can take over.

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

To thrive as a First Responder, you need expertise in emergency medical care, crisis assessment, and lifesaving procedures, often backed by EMT or paramedic certification. Familiarity with emergency communication systems, rescue equipment, and incident reporting tools is typically required. Strong decision-making, composure under pressure, and effective teamwork set outstanding First Responders apart. These abilities are crucial for delivering rapid, coordinated, and effective responses during emergencies, directly impacting safety and survival outcomes.

What are some common challenges first responders face during multi-agency emergency situations?

First Responders often encounter challenges related to communication and coordination when working alongside multiple agencies, such as police, fire, and EMS teams. Differences in protocols, equipment, and terminology can lead to confusion or delays in response. To address these challenges, First Responders participate in joint training exercises and use standardized communication systems to ensure everyone is aligned during emergencies. Adaptability, teamwork, and a clear understanding of roles are essential skills for navigating these complex scenarios effectively.

What is the difference between First Responder vs Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)?

AspectFirst ResponderEmergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Required CertificationsBasic First Aid, CPR, and often Emergency Response trainingState-specific EMT certification, CPR, First Aid
Work EnvironmentEmergency scenes, accident sites, public safety eventsAmbulances, hospitals, emergency scenes
Employer & Industry UsagePublic safety agencies, fire departments, policeAmbulance services, hospitals, EMS agencies

First Responders are trained to provide initial emergency care and scene safety, often before EMTs arrive. EMTs have more advanced medical training and can provide a wider range of pre-hospital care. Both roles are vital in emergency response, but EMTs typically have more specialized medical skills and certifications.

What qualifications do I need to be a first responder?

To become a first responder, individuals typically need to complete emergency medical training such as CPR and first aid certification, and obtain relevant certifications like Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or paramedic licensure. Additionally, they must meet age, background check, and physical fitness requirements set by their state or employer.
More about First Responder jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of First Responder jobs in California?

The most popular types of First Responder jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to First Responder jobs in California?

For First Responder jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching First Responder jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for First Responder jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for First Responder jobs?

Cities in California with the most First Responder job openings:

What are popular job titles related to First Responder jobs in CA?

For First Responder jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

First Responder jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Responder job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,476 per year, or $19 per hour.

Remote Mental Health Counselor - First Responder Focus

First Responder Mental Health Clinic

Thousand Oaks, CA • Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking a dedicated Remote Mental Health Counselor to join our dynamic team at First Responder Mental Health Clinic based in Thousand Oaks, California. In this full-time position, you will provide essential mental health support to clients through virtual sessions, focusing specifically on the unique needs of first responders. This role allows you to work from the comfort of your home while maintaining a fulfilling career without the stress of managing a private practice.

About the Organization

First Responder Mental Health Clinic is dedicated to promoting mental wellness among first responders, including police officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, and their families. Our practitioners are committed to providing evidence-based therapeutic interventions that foster resilience and emotional stability. We prioritize a supportive and collaborative environment for our staff, allowing for professional growth while making a significant difference in the lives of those who protect and serve our communities.

Work Environment

As a Remote Mental Health Counselor, you will benefit from working in a fully virtual setting using our cutting-edge telehealth platform. This technology ensures secure and confidential interactions with clients, allowing you to focus on providing high-quality therapy without the distractions of a traditional office environment. You will have a consistent schedule from Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, to foster work-life balance while efficiently managing client workloads.

Key Responsibilities

Your primary responsibilities will include:

  • Conducting one-on-one therapy sessions via a secure video platform, tailored to support the unique experiences of first responders.
  • Utilizing evidence-based strategies to assess client needs and facilitate their progress in therapeutic goals.
  • Crafting individualized treatment plans that are reflective of each client's personal objectives and challenges.
  • Helping clients cultivate resilience and emotional well-being through tailored coping strategies and therapeutic exercises.
  • Maintaining thorough client records that comply with HIPAA regulations, ensuring a high standard of care and accountability.
Patient Population / Client Focus

You will work primarily with first responders, a demographic that faces distinct stressors related to their work environment. This role requires an understanding of the challenges and pressures these individuals encounter, including trauma exposure and work-related mental health issues. Your insights and therapy will be pivotal in supporting their mental health journey.

Qualifications

To qualify for this position, candidates must possess:

  • A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or related disciplines.
  • A valid California state license for LCSW, LMFT, or LPCC.
  • At least two years of experience in a clinical setting, preferably with individuals experiencing trauma or related mental health concerns.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, allowing for effective client communication and engagement in a virtual format.
  • Proficiency in using technology for virtual therapy and document management.
Preferred Experience

While not mandatory, additional qualifications that would enhance your candidacy include:

  • A master’s degree in a relevant field.
  • Three or more years of experience related specifically to trauma-informed care.
  • Experience working with first responders and understanding their unique challenges.
  • Advanced training in evidence-based therapeutic modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Compensation and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary ranging from USD 90,000 to 100,000 per year, commensurate with your experience and qualifications. Our benefits package includes:

  • An employer-matched 401(k) retirement plan to help secure your financial future.
  • Comprehensive healthcare benefits that encompass medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Life insurance to provide additional security for you and your loved ones.
Career Growth Opportunities

At First Responder Mental Health Clinic, we are committed to your professional development. We provide ongoing training programs and workshops focused on advanced therapies and emerging mental health trends. As part of our team, you will have opportunities to take on leadership roles, participate in clinical supervision, and contribute to program development aimed at better serving our clients.

Why Join Our Team

By joining First Responder Mental Health Clinic, you will be part of a committed team that truly values the mental health of first responders. You will have the unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who serve our communities. Our supportive and collaborative culture encourages your growth and expertise, making this an ideal workplace for someone passionate about mental health care.

Application Information

If you are ready to make a meaningful impact in the world of mental health counseling and are excited about the prospect of working remotely while contributing to the well-being of first responders, we encourage you to apply today. Don’t miss the chance to be part of a dedicated team making a real difference!

Apply