Careers

• Firefighter I

  You may choose to begin your fire protection career as a Fire Fighter I. Fire Fighter I is a seasonal, temporary classification. Employment typically begins in the spring and lasts an average of six months. As a member of an engine crew, a Fire Fighter I fights fires using a variety of firefighting equipment, repairs equipment, and responds to other emergency situations; performs heavy physical work and assists others with general housekeeping. The hiring process for these temporary positions may include an oral interview.

• Firefighter II & Firefighter II (Paramedic)

  Persons selected for employment as a Fire Fighter II are placed in a three-year apprenticeship program. A Fire Fighter II performs the full-range of firefighting duties including responding to alarms as a member of an engine crew on such fire apparatus as engines or water tenders, entering burning areas and structures with charged hose lines, and ventilating buildings. A Fire Fighter II assists in the training of seasonal and volunteer fire fighters and may assist in making fire prevention inspections. Fire Fighters II assist in building, grounds, and equipment maintenance and repair.

  Paramedic
  In addition to the duties above, act as a member of a paramedic team, to perform
  paramedic duties in emergency medical situations.

  To see if you qualify, click here. (Paramedic)
  To view open positions with CAL FIRE for this classification, click here. (Paramedic)

• Fire Apparatus Engineer & Fire Apparatus Engineer (Paramedic)

  A Fire Apparatus Engineer drives and operates fire apparatus such as engines, water tenders, rescue squads, and aerial trucks in connection with extinguishing wild land, structural or other fires, and in fire prevention and rescue work; performs medical aid duties; performs building, grounds, and equipment maintenance; makes fire code inspections; investigates fire causes; presents fire prevention programs to the public; and keeps records and prepares reports. A Fire Apparatus Engineer leads a crew and may act as Fire Captain relief.

  Paramedic
  In addition to the duties above, act as part of a paramedic team, to perform
  paramedic duties in emergency medical situations; and to do other related work.

  To see if you qualify, click here. (Paramedic)
  To view open positions with CAL FIRE for this classification, click here. (Paramedic)

• Heavy Fire Equipment Operator (HFEO)

  Heavy Fire Equipment Operators are trained in firefighting and operating heavy equipment used in wildland fire control, forest protection, and conservation project work. Heavy Fire Equipment Operators operate and perform maintenance and repair work on vehicles and heavy equipment such as bulldozers, motor-graders, heavy duty transports, and trucks. Operating heavy equipment is required on steep, narrow mountain roads, under hazardous conditions, on the fire line, road construction, and other forestry construction projects.

  To see if you qualify, click here.
  To view open positions with CAL FIRE for this classification, click here.

• Forestry Aide

  Under supervision, as a temporary employee, a Forestry Aide will perform sub professional work in forestry, fire prevention, fire suppression and control, natural resource management, or other related work. Examples of work tasks include but are not limited to, one or more of the following: timber marking, cruising, pest control, forest engineering, establishing and measuring sample plots, remote sensing, geographic information systems processing and analysis, resource surveys, nursery operations, seed processing and storage, State Demonstration Forest operations, forestry assistance, urban forestry programs, and/or directing work crews.

  To see if you qualify, click here.
  To view open positions with CAL FIRE for this classification, click here.

• Forestry Technician

  Forestry Technician positions with CAL FIRE perform in a variety of professional/technical assignments in resource management in State forests, nurseries, ranger units/districts, and in Regional and Sacramento headquarters assignments. The class series provides incumbents avenues for advancement into the Forester series. A Forestry Technician learns to perform routine technical resource management assignments; assignments may include forest practice, service forestry, State land surveys, chaparral management, nursery operations, insect control, or range improvement. Incumbents are considered part of the Department's emergency response team and will perform fire suppression, prevention, and/or inspection duties during fire season and, infrequently, on other occasions. Individuals entering the series at any level must complete a basic Forest Fire Fighter Training Course prior to working in emergency assignments.

  To see if you qualify, click here.
  To view open positions with CAL FIRE for this classification, click here. 

• Forestry Assistant

  A Forestry Assistant I performs increasingly more difficult and varied technical resource management assignments, including administrative functions. As part of the Department's emergency response team, during fire season, Forestry Assistants I may perform fire control or other emergency duties for which they have been trained.

  To see if you qualify, click here.
  To view open positions with CAL FIRE for this classification, click here. 

• Forestry Assistant II

  Forestry Assistants II assist Foresters in performing the most complex technical assignments in resource management and assume lead responsibility over lower level technicians. They may also perform as specialists responsible for a specific segment of a program area. As part of the emergency response team, during fire season, they also perform fire control or other emergency duties for which they have been trained.

  To see if you qualify, click here.
  To view open positions with CAL FIRE for this classification, click here.

• Forester I (Nonsupervisory)

  Foresters I perform professional forestry duties in connection with forest, range, and watershed management activities. Their duties include planning, development, and administration of resource management programs; surveys, research, and demonstration projects in the fields of forest pest protection, reforestation, climate change, forest utilization, and forest nursery operations; mapping and inventory of wildland soils and vegetation; emergency revegetation and rehabilitation; range improvement; forest practice and fire prevention inspections and regulation; criminal and civil law enforcement; State forest management; studies in forest economics, engineering, genetics, and appraisal; watershed management; environmental protection; forest products utilization; forest and wildland improvement and restoration; environmental review; forest policy; urban forestry; vegetation management; pre-fire engineering; all-risk response; and land-use planning.

  To see if you qualify, click here.
  To view open positions with CAL FIRE for this classification, click here. 

• Office Assistant (General & Typing)

  Individuals in these positions learn and perform a variety of general office work. General office duties include typing, dictation and transcription; mail and document handling; filing and records management; document preparation and review; composition of correspondence; oral communications; statistical and other record keeping; cashiering; and ordering and maintaining supplies and equipment. Employees in this series may be regularly required to have particular knowledge and/or proficiency in such special areas as typing, cashiering, and information services.

  To see if you qualify, click here.
  To view open positions with CAL FIRE for this classification, click here

• Office Technician (General & Typing)

  This is the advanced journey level which regularly performs a variety of the most difficult duties and is expected to consistently exercise a high degree of initiative, independence and originality in performing assigned tasks. Positions at this level regularly require detailed and sensitive public contact and/or independent origination of correspondence involving the knowledge and application of detailed regulations, policies and procedures. Must exhibit good judgment and the ability to communicate effectively. In addition, positions may have responsibility for functional guidance in training and assisting less experienced employees.

  To see if you qualify, click here. 
  To view open positions with CAL FIRE for this classification, click here.

• Staff Services Analyst & Associate Governmental Program Analyst (AGPA)

  Under direction, incumbents perform the more responsible, varied, and complex technical analytical staff services assignments such as program evaluation and planning; policy analysis and formulation; systems development; budgeting, planning, management, and personnel analysis; and continually provide consultative services to management or others. Employees are typically subject-matter generalists who have demonstrated possession of intellectual abilities, the management tools, and the personal qualifications to succeed in a variety of general staff services settings.

  To see if you qualify, click here. (AGPA Classification)
  To view open positions with CAL FIRE for the Staff Services Analyst classification, click here. (AGPA Positions)

• Associate Personnel Analyst

  Under general direction, performs the more responsible, varied and complex technical work of the State personnel management program; to advise and assist operating officials; to act as lead person for other staff personnel; Prepares written examinations, writes test items, and does test research; Assists in the development of policies and procedures relating to the personnel management program of a State agency; other related work in the personnel office.

  To see if you qualify, click here.
  To view open positions with CAL FIRE for this classification, click here.

• Associate Budget Analyst

  Under general direction, performs the more responsible and complex technical budget work by coordinating and assisting in the development, preparation, administration, maintenance, review and control of a department's budget; provides consultative budget service to department management; Prepares baseline budget; prepares budget revisions; reviews, analyzes, evaluates and processes budget change proposals; reconciles appropriation by source of funding; prepares and processes transfer of budget allotments; provides budget information, and other related work.

  To see if you qualify, click here. 
  To view open positions with CAL FIRE for this classification, click here.

• Administrative Assistant I

  Employees in this class are responsible for relieving an administrator of assigned administrative detail, for carrying out assignments on their own initiative without detailed instructions, and for obtaining facts on which decisions or recommendations may be based. They serve to increase the capacity of an administrator to carry out the duties and responsibilities of his/her position and are to be considered as an augmentation of the administrator rather than a separate entity in the organization of the agency.

  To see if you qualify, click here. 
  To view open positions with CAL FIRE for this classification, click here.

• Information Technology Careers

  CAL FIRE's statewide information technology systems support the Department's exciting emergency response mission; providing challenges that you won't find with other state agencies. From ensuring that the CAL FIRE's dispatching system is always up and running, to the challenges of connecting remote fire stations and conservation camps, to maintaining e-mail, Internet and Intranet systems, the nature of CAL FIRE's mission provides incredible challenges and opportunities in the area of information technology. Whether in Sacramento, or in the field, CAL FIRE recognizes the tremendous importance of its IT staff, both in day-to-day operations, and in planning for tomorrow's needs.

  We offer:

  •     An aggressive training program for IT staff.
  •     Management support for professional development.
  •     Alternate work schedules.
  •     Close freeway access.
  •     Shower facilities.

  Exam Questions
  (866) 844-8671
  Email: JobExamCerts@calhr.ca.gov

Considered one of the finest and most effective aerial firefighting operations in the world, the CAL FIRE Aviation Program is a model for others to emulate. Our Aviation Program utilizes a fleet of airtankers, helicopters and air tactical planes strategically located at remote locations throughout the state. CAL FIRE is actively seeking highly skilled professionals in the fields of aircraft maintenance and flight operations to join our team.

• Aviation Officer II & III (Maintenance)

  Incumbents at this level provide guidance and direction to departmental staff and contractors in all phases of maintenance, modification, and care of State-owned and contracted aircraft; direct the overhaul and repair of aircraft, engines, and components for State-owned or contracted aircraft; conduct inspections of State-owned or contracted aircraft; and do other related work. Work described may be accomplished at both central maintenance facilities and remote operational locations; and will participate in or provide technical support for aviation accident investigations.

  To see if you qualify, click here.
  To view open positions with CAL FIRE for this classification, click here.

• Aviation Officer II & III (Flight Operations)

  The Aviation Officer II and III classifications develop and implement standard flight operational procedures, train and evaluate pilots, and ensure that pilots perform their duties in accordance with Federal, State, and departmental rules, regulations, procedures, and directives. They also take part in study projects; prepare recommendations on the use of specialized aircraft, modifications of aircraft, and development of methods and procedures for air operations; perform qualification and flight standardization checks for pilots; develop and monitor aviation training programs; evaluate effectiveness of air operations; as needed, act as relief and primary pilot of State-owned and contracted aircraft in the performance of fire suppression and vegetation management projects and other related work.

  To see if you qualify, click here.
  To view open positions with CAL FIRE for this classification, click here.

• Senior Aviation Officer

  Senior Aviation Officers supervise, plan, organize, and direct CAL FIRE's Aviation Management Program and are responsible for the overall administration and oversight of the Aviation Management Program’s contractual agreements to assure adherence to terms and conditions, as well as performance. They provide primary leadership for the Aviation Management Program and ensure that missions are conducted in a safe manner and in compliance with Federal, State, and Department regulations, and in compliance with manufacturer directives. Senior Aviation Officers provide guidance and supervision to Aviation Officers and may pilot aircraft as necessary.

  To see if you qualify, click here.
  To view open positions with CAL FIRE for this classification, click here.

• Forestry Fire Pilot

  Under general direction, the Forestry Fire Pilot flies a helicopter throughout the State over all types of terrain, assists in all aspects of fire prevention, suppression, and vegetation management, and performs required preventive maintenance on helicopters. They fly routine and emergency missions such as search and rescue, medivacs, reconnaissance, law enforcement, serial photography, and administrative flights.

  To see if you qualify, click here.
  To view open positions with CAL FIRE for this classification, click here.

The mission of CAL FIRE – Office of the State Fire Marshal is to protect life, property, and the environment through the development and application of fire prevention engineering, education, and enforcement. That mission is accomplished through several major program elements including code enforcement, training, engineering, hazardous material safety, pyrotechnic display permitting, arson investigation, wildland fire prevention, land use planning and fire incident reporting. All program elements promote fire and life safety for California residents, visitors, and emergency responders.

• Deputy State Fire Marshal A/B (Entry Level)
  •     Conduct detailed building and fire safety inspections and enforce fire safety standards as specified in Title 19 and 24 of the California Code of Regulations
  •     Arson investigations, illegal fireworks, and fraud enforcement
  •     Special event and motion picture permitting; pyrotechnic operator licensing
  •     Building damage inspection during/after fires and other incidents
  •     Positions in this classification are designated peace officers and persons appointed to this class must meet all necessary standards and requirements

  To see if you qualify, click here. http://www.calhr.ca.gov/state-hr-professionals/Pages/9086.aspx 

  This position requires taking an exam prior to applying. To view current exam schedule, click here. https://jobs.ca.gov/CalHrPublic/Exams/Bulletin.aspx?examCD=7FSAB

• Deputy State Fire Marshal III Specialist (Journey Level)
  •     Performs more difficult specialized field enforcement work
  •     Develop fire training curriculum and accredits local academies and colleges
  •     Consults with local fire and building officials, architects, engineers, and contractors on problems of fire and panic safety in the design and construction processes
  •     Cooperates with other public agencies on mutual concerns relating to fire safety
  •     Reviews reports and recommendations from field inspectors
  •     Conducts training meetings for field personnel; trains new field personnel on inspection work and enforcement
  •     Administers laws and regulations governing the flame-retardant treatment of tents and flammable decorative materials, and the sale and discharge of fireworks
  •     Reviews plans and specifications for state regulated occupancies, and revisions to existing buildings for compliance with panic and fire safety laws and regulations

  To see if you qualify, click here. http://www.calhr.ca.gov/state-hr-professionals/Pages/9013.aspx

• Deputy State Fire Marshal III Supervisor
  •     Supervises the office and field inspection staff
  •     Consult with State and/or local fire and building officials, architects, engineers, and contractors on sensitive issues regarding panic and fire safety in the design, construction, and operation of buildings and other facilities subject to regulation by the State Fire Marshal
  •     Grant code alternatives; make special field inspections with personnel in unusual or complex construction projects
  •     Conduct informal hearings and prepares cases for court
  •     Initiate, prepare, and/or analyze legislative or regulatory proposals for State and program impact, assist in the preparation of legal actions and prepare and/or review technical articles for publications
  •     Supervises and trains subordinates and evaluates performance; counsel staff regarding disciplinary problems and initiate progressive discipline as necessary
  •     Represent the State Fire Marshal while attending meetings of fire prevention associations, service clubs and similar groups to give fire prevention presentations

  To see if you qualify, click here. http://www.calhr.ca.gov/state-hr-professionals/Pages/9010.aspx

• Division Chief
  •     Plan, organize, and direct the fire protection, law enforcement, and administrative work performed by California State Fire Marshal's peace officer and non-peace officer personnel
  •     Implement and enforce the departmental policies, and procedures and ensure compliance
  •     Train, and evaluate the performance of staff
  •     Coordinate the work of the assigned division with other divisions, state departments, federal government, fire and law enforcement authorities, local jurisdictions, and industry representatives
  •     Conduct meetings, conferences, and training sessions; serve as chair or staff for various advisory committees
  •     Prepare material for, and testify before, administrative, judicial, and legislative hearings
  •     Conduct analysis related to workload and related personnel, fiscal, management and work flow processes; develop annual divisional goals and objectives; research and develop budget change proposals
  •     Enforce, review and evaluate fire safety codes and standards and investigate complaints
  •     Develop and deliver fire service and staff training programs

  To see if you qualify, click here. http://www.calhr.ca.gov/state-hr-professionals/Pages/8966.aspx

• Pipeline Safety Engineer (Entry & Journey Level)
  •     Inspections of design, construction, modification, operations and maintenance of liquid pipeline systems
  •     Investigation of pipeline incident
  •     Provide technical advice to State and local emergency response plans as related to hazardous liquid pipelines
  •     Technical review and inspection work in conjunction with the enforcement of federal and state hazardous liquid pipeline safety laws, rules, regulations, and policies

  To see if you qualify, click here. http://www.calhr.ca.gov/state-hr-professionals/Pages/2278.aspx

• Supervising Pipeline Safety Engineer (Journey Level)
  •     Provide technical advice for development, implementation and revision of State and local emergency response plans
  •     Ensure staff are informed and trained on safe work practices during a spill response or field inspection
  •     Work with industry representatives, local and state government and oil company executives to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations
  •     Represent the State Fire Marshal on the National Association of Pipeline Safety Representatives sub-committees and other public meetings, trails, and city council meetings
  •     Supervise and trains subordinates; counsel staff regarding disciplinary problems and initiate punitive action as necessary

  To see if you qualify, click here. http://www.calhr.ca.gov/state-hr-professionals/Pages/2278.aspx

• Arson and Bomb Investigator
  •     Conduct detailed and complex fire and explosion investigations
  •     Interrogate suspects and interview witnesses; obtain criminal complaints and serve subpoenas and make arrests
  •     Consult with district attorneys and prosecutors in preparing cases for court; testify in court as expert witness
  •     Train and provide technical assistance in the latest techniques of fire and explosion to local fire protection and law enforcement authorities
  •     Administer specialized arson and explosives training programs or projects
  •     Investigators in this series are peace officers

  To see if you qualify, click here. http://www.calhr.ca.gov/state-hr-professionals/Pages/8894.aspx

  This position requires taking an exam prior to applying. To view current exam schedule, click here.  https://jobs.ca.gov/CalHrPublic/Exams/Bulletin.aspx?examCD=7FSAA