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Professional Firefighter Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Professional Firefighter information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$29.7K

$62.2K

$104.3K

How much do professional firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional firefighter in Riverside, CA is $62,185.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $72,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a professional firefighter?

Professional firefighters are trained emergency responders employed by municipal, regional, or private fire departments to protect lives, property, and the environment from fires and other hazards. Their duties include extinguishing fires, performing rescues, administering first aid, and responding to various emergencies such as car accidents or hazardous material spills. In addition to emergency response, they also conduct fire prevention inspections, educate the public about fire safety, and maintain firefighting equipment. Professional firefighters typically work in shifts and must meet physical and educational requirements, often including certification through fire academies.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by professional firefighters during their shifts?

Professional firefighters regularly encounter physically demanding situations, exposure to hazardous materials, and unpredictable emergency calls, which can make their shifts both physically and mentally taxing. Balancing rapid response with safety protocols is essential, as is coping with the emotional impact of emergency incidents. Additionally, firefighters often work long shifts in close-knit teams, requiring strong communication and teamwork skills to manage stress and ensure effective collaboration.

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

A Professional Firefighter must possess strong physical fitness, emergency medical training (often EMT certification), and a high school diploma or equivalent. They regularly use firefighting equipment, rescue tools, breathing apparatus, and specialized communication systems, often requiring ongoing certification and technical training. Critical soft skills include teamwork, stress management, quick decision-making, and effective communication during high-pressure situations. These competencies are vital to ensure rapid, coordinated responses to emergencies and to safeguard both public and team safety.

What is the difference between Professional Firefighter vs Volunteer Firefighter?

AspectProfessional FirefighterVolunteer Firefighter
CredentialsFirefighter certification, EMT/paramedic license often requiredBasic training, certification varies by department
Work EnvironmentFull-time, paid position in urban or suburban areasPart-time, unpaid or stipend-based, often in rural areas
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal fire departments, government agenciesCommunity-based fire departments, volunteer organizations
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for career stability and trainingCompared for community service and volunteer opportunities

Professional Firefighters are full-time, paid personnel with formal training and certifications, working in urban or suburban settings. Volunteer Firefighters, on the other hand, serve part-time without pay, primarily in rural areas, and have varying levels of training. Both roles are vital to fire safety but differ in commitment, compensation, and work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Firefighter jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Firefighter jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Professional Firefighter jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Professional Firefighter job openings:

Professional Firefighter jobs near you

Firefighter/Paramedic

GovernmentJobs.com

Calimesa, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Firefighter-Paramedic

Under general supervision, performs a full range of firefighting duties to include the suppression of various types of fires, emergency medical services, fire training, prevention and public relations activities, fire station, equipment and apparatus maintenance; performs related duties as required.

The Firefighter-Paramedic is a journey level class within the Fire Department responsible for performing a variety of duties and responsibilities in support of the department's fire prevention and suppression responsibility. This classification is distinguished from the higher classifications in that higher classifications are responsible for operating and maintaining a variety of fire equipment and apparatus.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Education - High School Diploma or Equivalent
  • Certifications
    • Firefighter I or Completion from Accredited Firefighter I Academy
    • ICS 200
    • National Incident Management System (NIMS) IS-700
    • National Incident Management System (NIMS) IS-800
    • S-190 Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior
    • S-130 Firefighter Training
    • Hazmat FRO
    • Auto Extrication
    • Fire Control 3
    • Driver Operator 1A (within 6 Months)
  • Licenses
    • Valid California Class C Driver's License
    • Valid State of California Paramedic License, Riverside County Endorsement
    • Valid CPR Healthcare Professional/ Basic Life Support (BLS) ACLS, PALS or PEPP and BTLS or PHTLS provider.
    • Valid Firefighters Physical Agility Test consisting of a Biddle or CPAT

Desired Qualifications:

  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office software applications
  • Preparing and maintaining accurate reports and records
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with city staff, elected officials and the public
  • Communicate effectively
  • Use standard office equipment including personal computer, fax, copier, calculator
  • ICS- 100
  • Fire Fighter II
  • Rescue System 1
  • Driver Operator 1 A
  • One (1) year of Firefighting experience in an all-risk fire agency with increased responsibility in leadership and management activities.
  • Water Rescue Awareness
  • Hazmat Decon

Special Requirements: Applicant must have a satisfactory driving record that will allow the individual to be insurable with the Fire Department's insurance company. Persons seeking appointment to this class must meet the safety health and physical condition standards deemed necessary and proper for performance of the duties established by the Fire Department.

Completed Applications must be submitted to City of Calimesa Human Resources Department at 908 Park Avenue, Calimesa, CA 92320 or via email at dgerdes@calimesa.gov. The Application packet is available at https://www.calimesa.gov/Jobs.aspx.

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