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Level Firefighter Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

City of Livingston, CA

Fire Lieutenant

Livingston, CA · On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

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 ...

City of Livingston (CA)

Fire Lieutenant

Livingston, CA

$64K - $95K/yr

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 ...

City of Livingston (CA)

Fire Captain

Livingston, CA · On-site

$71K - $105K/yr

General supervision from the Fire Battalion Chief or higher-level Fire Department staff. Exercised: Direct supervision over Fire Lieutenants, Firefighters, and extra-help or volunteer personnel as ...

City of Livingston, CA

Fire Captain

Livingston, CA · On-site

$71K - $105K/yr

General supervision from the Fire Battalion Chief or higher-level Fire Department staff. Exercised: Direct supervision over Fire Lieutenants, Firefighters, and extra-help or volunteer personnel as ...

All JobsLevel Firefighter JobsLevel Firefighter Jobs in Modesto, CA

Level Firefighter information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$30.1K

$62.9K

$105.5K

How much do level firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for level firefighter in Modesto, CA is $62,885.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $72,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a level firefighter?

Level Firefighters are trained professionals responsible for responding to fires, emergencies, and rescue situations. They perform tasks such as extinguishing fires, providing first aid, and ensuring public safety during emergencies. Level Firefighters may also participate in fire prevention, education, and equipment maintenance. Their training and responsibilities can vary by jurisdiction and the specific 'level' designation, which often reflects experience, certifications, or rank within the fire department.

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

To thrive as a Level Firefighter, you need physical fitness, emergency medical training (often EMT certification), and completion of fire academy training. Familiarity with firefighting equipment, breathing apparatus, and communication systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, quick decision-making, and stress management skills help firefighters excel under pressure. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safety, effective emergency response, and protecting lives and property during critical incidents.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level firefighters during their first year on the job?

Entry-level firefighters often encounter challenges such as adapting to the physically demanding nature of the work, mastering new equipment and procedures, and coping with shift work, which can include nights, weekends, and holidays. They must also learn to manage stressful emergency situations while working effectively as part of a close-knit team. Building confidence and communication skills, both within the department and with the public, are key to overcoming these initial hurdles and thriving in the role.

What is the difference between Level Firefighter vs Firefighter I?

AspectLevel FirefighterFirefighter I
CertificationsTypically requires basic firefighter certificationRequires Firefighter I certification
Work EnvironmentResponds to emergency scenes, training, community eventsSame as Level Firefighter, often the entry-level position
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in fire departments, emergency servicesStandard entry-level firefighter role in many departments

Level Firefighter and Firefighter I are often used interchangeably, but Level Firefighter may refer to a specific certification level or rank within a department. Both roles involve responding to emergencies, fire suppression, and safety protocols, with Firefighter I being a common certification required for entry-level firefighters. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify job requirements and career progression in firefighting.

Is 28 too late to be a level firefighter?

Level firefighters typically need to meet age requirements set by fire departments, which often include a maximum age limit around 30 to 35 years old. Being 28 is generally not too late to pursue a firefighting career, especially if you meet other qualifications such as physical fitness, education, and certification requirements like EMT or firefighter training. Age limits vary by department, so it's advisable to check specific department policies.

What do entry-level firefighters do?

Entry-level firefighters perform tasks such as responding to emergency calls, extinguishing fires, rescuing people, and providing basic medical aid. They also conduct equipment maintenance, participate in training, and follow safety protocols under supervision to develop their skills and knowledge.
Level Firefighter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Level Firefighter job openings in Modesto, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,885 per year, or $30.2 per hour.

Volunteer / Reserve Firefighter

Lathrop - Manteca Fire Protection District

Lathrop, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Description About the program: The Lathrop Manteca Fire District utilizes the Volunteer / Reserve Firefighter role to augment our effective emergency staffing strength. The Fire Board has authorized the Fire Chief to fill the Volunteer / Reserve Firefighter Program with up to 35 individuals. The LMFD prides itself on having one of the best opportunities available for those that want to serve in this capacity.

The Lathrop - Manteca Fire District's Volunteer / Reserve firefighters are held accountable to the LMFD training standards to help develop skilled firefighters. The members of the program will be given the opportunity to work 24-hour shifts alongside full-time fire suppression personnel to gain hands-on experience. The Volunteer / Reserves are also able to respond to "callbacks" so they can gain knowledge and experience a variety of different emergent situations.

The Volunteer / Reserve Firefighter Program at LMFD is an exciting and rewarding start to a career in the fire service. Many of our volunteer / reserves have transitioned from the program to full-time firefighting careers with our District or with other fire departments. Overall, this program offers a great opportunity to increase your knowledge and skill level while building your resume in pursuit of a career in the Fire Service.

Examples of Duties Expectations: Once accepted, you will be expected to complete the LMFD Volunteer / Reserve basic fire academy (in-house) where you will be exposed to: donning and doffing PPE, pulling hose, basic wildland operation, EMS calls, vehicle accidents and all fire apparatus equipment within the district. Once you graduate the Volunteer / Reserve Academy, you will be asked to complete a minimum of two 24-hour shifts a month, attend training once a month and complete online assignments, which will count towards your EMT or paramedic CE's. As a member of the Volunteer / Reserve program, you'll be able to work side-by-side with firefighters and you'll be able to be put on the schedule to ride as an additional person at LMFD Station 32.

On your scheduled shifts you will train with the crew, respond to any calls within the district and assist with daily activities. Fire Chief's Expectations: As a Volunteer/Reserve with Lathrop Manteca Fire District, you will be held to high standards. The community looks to us for assistance in their times of need and we will serve all with professionalism and compassion, no matter the situation.

You are to always carry yourself in a professional manner both on and off duty. You are to be a positive individual and be supportive of all matters involving the Fire District. Apply yourself in all aspects that will help improve yourself and the Fire District.

Typical Qualifications Minimum Qualifications: Ability to Legally Work in the United States 18 Years or Older at Time of Application Valid Class C Driver's License (must be maintained for eligibility to remain in the program) High School Diploma or GED Desired Qualifications: California EMT CSFM Accredited Fire Academy Graduate CSFM Firefighter 1 Certificate California DMV Firefighter Endorsement Any fire experience and education is highly desirable.

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