The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) is California's fire department and resource management agency. The organization is comprised of nearly 8,000 permanent and seasonal employees. The mission of the Department is to serve and safeguard the people and protect the property and resources of California.
CAL FIRE is an equal opportunity employer, providing equal opportunity to all regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age or sexual orientation. CAL FIRE offers well-paying careers and opportunities for advancement.
When you join CAL FIRE, you join a family of employees that function as a team. You will build trust and friendship with your co-workers, as together you respond to emergencies and challenging situations. CAL FIRE provides employees with a variety of career choices and opportunities. We hope that you will consider a rewarding and challenging career with CAL FIRE!
@CALFIRE_Careers
Forester I (Non-supervisory) - Monterey County
Final Filing Date: 8/22/2019
Forester I (Non-supervisory) - Fresno County
Final Filing Date: 8/22/2019
Associate Personnel Analyst - Sacramento County
Final Filing Date: 8/23/2019
Staff Services Analyst, Classification and Pay Analyst - Sacramento County
Final Filing Date: 8/23/2019
Assistant Chief - Riverside County
Final Filing Date: 8/26/2019
Staff Services Analyst, Administration Analyst - Sacramento County
Final Filing Date: 8/26/2019
Office Technician (Typing) - Sacramento County
Final Filing Date: 8/26/2019
Information Officer II, Education, Outreach and Engagement Officer - Sacramento County
Final Filing Date: 8/26/2019
Forester II, Regulations Coordinator - Sacramento County
Final Filing Date: 8/28/2019
Battalion Chief - Mariposa County
Final Filing Date: 8/29/2019
Deputy State Fire Marshal III (Specialist) - Sacramento County
Final Filing Date: 8/29/2019
Office Technician (Typing), Fire Engineering Program Assistant - Sacramento County
Final Filing Date: 8/30/2019
Research Data Analyst I - San Bernadino County
Final Filing Date: 9/3/2019
Senior Architect - Sacramento County
Final Filing Date: 8/30/2019
Research Data Analyst II, GIS Analyst II - Sacramento County
Final Filing Date: 8/30/2019
Forestry Equipment Manager II - Fresno County
Final Filing Date: 9/2/2019
Office Technician (Typing) - Sacramento County
Final Filing Date: 9/3/2019
Student Assistant - Sacramento County
Final Filing Date: 9/3/2019
Forestry and Fire Protection Administrator, Staff Chief of Wildfire Engineering & Planning - Sacramento County
Final Filing Date: 9/3/2019
Forester III, State Urban Forester - Sacramento County
Final Filing Date: 9/3/2019
Staff Services Analyst, Timber Operator License Program Coordinator - Sacramento County
Final Filing Date: 9/3/2019
Forester III, Vegetation Management Program Manager - Sacramento County
Final Filing Date: 9/3/2019
Battalion Chief - Tulare County
Final Filing Date: 9/4/2019
Battalion Chief - Monterey County
Final Filing Date: 9/4/2019
Battalion Chief - Monterey County
Final Filing Date: 9/4/2019
Assistant Chief - San Luis Obispo County
Final Filing Date: 9/5/2019
Assistant Chief w/Differential - San Luis Obispo County
Final Filing Date: 9/5/2019
Electrician II – Sonoma County
Final Filing Date: Until Filled
Forester I (Nonsupervisory) – Mariposa County
Final Filing Date: Until Filled
Forester II (Supervisory) – Sacramento County
Final Filing Date: Until Filled
Associate State Archeologist – Riverside County
Final Filing Date: Until Filled
Applications are now being accepted for the following open examinations. Any applicant who meets the minimum qualifications may apply for these examinations, whether or not he/she is currently employed by the State of California. Click on the examination title to view the examination bulletin.
FORESTRY AND FIRE PROTECTION ADMINISTRATOR - Final Filing Date: August 30, 2019
DEPUTY STATE FIRE MARSHAL III (Specialist) - Final Filing Date: September 6, 2019
DEPUTY STATE FIRE MARSHAL III (Supervisor) - Final Filing Date: September 6, 2019
FORESTRY EQUIPMENT MANAGER I - Final Filing Date: September 12, 2019
FORESTRY EQUIPMENT MANAGER II - Final Filing Date: September 12, 2019
SENIOR FORESTRY EQUIPMENT MANAGER - Final Filing Date: September 12, 2019
FORESTRY TECHNICIAN - Final Filing Date: September 16, 2019
FORESTRY ASSISTANT II - Final Filing Date: September 16, 2019
FIRE FIGHTER II (PARAMEDIC) - Final Filing Date: September 18, 2019
COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR - Final Filing Date: September 20, 2019
Applications are now being accepted for the following departmental promotional examinations. Applicants must have a permanent civil service appointment with the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. Applicants not meeting promotional requirements will not be admitted to the examination.
Assistant Chief - Final Filing Date: August 30, 2019
Unit Chief - Final Filing Date: August 30, 2019
NOTE: The 2019 Fire Fighter I application process begins November 1st.
Fire Fighter I is a seasonal, temporary classification used by CAL FIRE. The Fire Fighter I application period occurs in November and hiring usually occurs between March and June, depending upon the year's fire and weather conditions.
The minimum qualification to participate in the Fire Fighter I Classification is that you must be 18 years of age at the time of appointment to a Fire Fighter I position.
The filing period for the 2019 season is November 1, 2018 through November 30, 2018.
Applications will be accepted by mail, electronically, OR in person at our Southern Region Headquarters. For directions on how to apply, go to Jobs.Ca.Gov, search for Fire Fighter I and view the job posting with Job Control #JC-125458
APPLICATIONS RECEIVED AFTER NOVEMBER 30, 2018 MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED FOR THE 2019 FIRE SEASON. APPLICANTS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED AT SACRAMENTO HEADQUARTERS, UNIT OFFICES, OR CONSERVATION CAMPS.
More Information:
Fire Fighter I Hotline: (951) 901-5060
Fire Fighter I Fact Sheet
Careers by Field
Vacancies in CalCareers are available only to individuals who have eligibility based on either:
- Successful completion of a competitive State civil service examination; or
- Current employment with the State of California in a class which is comparable under transfer rules; or
- Previous employment with the State of California in a class that is comparable under reinstatement rules
For more information on salary and benefits for State of California employees, please visit the California Department of Human Resources website here.
For details regarding the Limited Examination and Appointment Program (LEAP) please visit the Cal Careers website here.
For questions about the exam process, job application process, or about career opportunities with CAL FIRE, email our Recruitment Unit at CALFIRErecruitment@fire.ca.gov or call our office at (916) 445-7801.
Veterans: Please visit our Returning Veterans; Enlisting Their Skills (R.V.E.T.S.) page to explore a variety of employment options and educational opportunities for service with CAL FIRE.
- 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
CalCareers
Use the following links for more information on the jobs process and to create your Cal Careers account.
Anchor Point – An advantageous location, usually a barrier to fire spread, from which to start constructing a fireline.
Area Command – An organization established to:
1) oversee the management of multiple incidents that are each being
handled by an incident management team (IMT) organization; or
2) to oversee the management of a very large
incident that has multiple IMTs assigned to it. Area command has the responsibility to set overall strategy and
priorities, allocate critical resources based on priorities, ensure that incidents are properly managed, and that
objectives are met and strategies followed.
Average Bad Day – Fire conditions experienced during typical mid-fire-season day. Used as a benchmark to gauge fire
situations.
Backfire – A fire suppression tactic. Any intentionally set fire used to consume the fuel in the path of a free burning
wildfire.
BIA – Bureau of Indian Affairs
BLM – Bureau of Land Management
CALMAC – California Multi-Agency Command. The information coordination center established in Sacramento. Tasked to
gather timely information from regions, cooperating agencies, the media, the director, interested government
leaders and the public.
CDF – California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection
Chief Officers – Agency Administrators, Fire Chiefs and other strategic level staff overseeing Incident Commanders.
Containment – A fire is contained when it is surrounded on all sides by some kind of boundary but is still burning and has
the potential to jump a boundary line.
Controlled – A fire is controlled when there is no further threat of it jumping a containment line. While crews continue to
do mop-up work within the fire lines, the fire fight is over.
Convection Column- The rising column of gasses, smoke, fly ash, particulates and other debris produced by a fire.
Cooperating Agency – An agency supplying assistance including but not limited to direct tactical or support functions or
resources to the incident control effort.
Crown Fire – A fire that advances from top to top of trees or shrubs, more or less independently of the surface fire.
Defensible Space - Creating a fire safe landscape for at least 30 feet around homes (and out to 100 feet or more in some
areas), to reduce the chance of a wildfire spreading and burning through the structures. This is the basis for
creating a “defensible space” - an area that will help protect your home and provide a safety zone for the
firefighters who are battling the flames. It is required by California law.
Direct Attack – A method of fire suppression in which suppression activity takes place on or near the fire perimeter.
Direct Protection Area (DPA) – That area for which a particular fire protection organization has the primary responsibility for attacking an uncontrolled fire and for directing the suppression action.
Draw Down Level – The level where the success of extinguishing a fire with initial attack forces is compromised.
ESF4 – Emergency Support Function 4. A component of the National Response Plan developed for FEMA. A document that
outlines different agency’s responsibilities in different types of emergencies.
ESRI - Environmental Systems Research Institute. A software company that produces software that is widely used to produce
Geographic Information Systems maps on emergencies for analysis and display.
Extreme Fire Behavior – “Extreme” implies a level of fire behavior characteristics that ordinarily precludes methods of
direct control action. One or more of the following is usually involved: high rate of spread, prolific crowning and/
or spotting, presence of fire whirls, strong convection column. Predictability is difficult because such fires often
exercise some degree of influence on their environment and behave erratically, sometime dangerously.
Federal National Team - A Type 1 National Incident Managemnt Team coordinated by the National Wildfire Coordinating
Group (NWCG). Team members may be from various agencies. The California Wildfire Coordinating Group (CWCG)
sponsors five of the 16 national teams.
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Federal Regional Team - A Type 2 Incident Management Team maintained by the U.S. Forest Service in the Pacific
Southwest Region (Region 5, California and the Pacific Islands). Team members may be from various agencies.
Federal Responsibility Area (FRA) - The primary financial responsibility for preventing and suppressing fires is that of
the Federal Government. These lands are generally protected by the Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, the
Department of Interior, Bureau of Land Management, National Parks Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and
Bureau of Indian Affairs.
Fire Danger Rating – A management system that integrates the effects of selected fire danger factors into one or more
qualitative or numerical indices of current protection needs.
Fire Line - A strip of area where the vegetation has been removed to deny the fire fuel, or a river, a freeway or some other
barrier which is expected to stop the fire. Hose lines from fire engines may also contribute to a fire being
surrounded and contained.
Fire Perimeter – The entire outer edge or boundary of a fire.
Firescope – Firefighting Resources of California Organized for Potential Emergencies. A multi-agency coordination system
designed to improve the capabilities of California’s wildland fire protection agencies. Its purpose is to provide
more efficient resource allocation and utilization, particularly in multiple or large fire situations during critical
burning conditions.
FMAG – Fire Management Assistance Grant. A federal assistance program managed by FEMA through the state Office of
Emergency Services (OES). This program is designed to help state and/or local jurisdictions impacted by high cost,
high damage wildland fires.
Fuels - Combustible material.
GACC – Geographical Area Coordination Center, see South Ops
GIS – Geographic Information System
INCIDENT COMMANDER – This ICS position is responsible for overall management of the incident and reports to the Agency
Administrator for the agency having incident jurisdiction.
Incident Command System (ICS) – A standardized on-scene emergency management concept specifically designed to
allow its user(s) to adopt an integrated organizational structure equal to the complexity and demands of single or
multiple incidents, without being hindered by jurisdictional boundaries.
Incident Command Team (ICT) – see Incident Management Team
Incident Management Team (IMT) – The incident commander and appropriate general and command staff personnel
assigned to an incident. Also known as an Incident Command Team.
Indirect Attack – A method of fire suppression in which suppression activities takes place some distances from the fire
perimeter, and often advantage of fire barriers.
Infared (IR) – A heat detection system used for fire protection, mapping, and hotspot identification.
Initial Attack (IA) – An aggressive suppression action taken by first arriving resources consistent with firefighter and
public safety and values to be protected.
Interface Zone – It is the area where the wildlands come together with the urban areas. Also referred to as the I-Zone.
Intermix Zone – It is areas where homes are interspersed among the wildlands. Also referred to as the I-Zone.
Joint Information Center (JIC) – An interagency information center responsible for researching, coordinating and
disseminating information to the public and media. Formed through the MAST effort.
LRA – Local Responsibility Area
MACS – (Multi-Agency Coordination System) Is a combination of facilities, equipment, personnel, procedures, and communications integrated into a common system with responsibility for coordination of assisting agency resources and
support to agency emergency operations.
MAFFS – Modular Airborne Firefighting System (Refers to the Military aircraft, C-130s, which are used as Air Tankers)
MAST – Mountain Area Safety Taskforce.
MODIS – (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) – is a key instrument aboard the Terra and Aqua satellites. This
instrument provided important intelligence for fire managers regarding fire perimeters and fire growth throughout
the fire siege.
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Mop-Up – Extinguishing or removing burning material near control lines, felling snags, and trenching logs to prevent rolling
after an area has burned, to make a fire safe, or to reduce residual smoke.
Mutual Threat Zone (MTZ) – A geographical area between two or more jurisdictions into which those agencies would
respond on initial attack. Also called mutual response zone or initial action zone.
NIFC – National Interagency Fire Center located in Boise, Idaho.
NPS – National Park Service
OES – The California Governor’s Office of the Emergency Services.
OSC – (Operations Section Chief) The ICS position responsible for supervising the Operations Section. Reports to the Incident
Commander. The OSC directs the preparation of unit operational plans, requests and releases resources, makes
expedient changes to the Incident Action Plan as necessary and reports such to the Incident Commander.
Predictive Services – Those Geographic Area and National-level fire weather or fire danger services and products produced
by wildland fire agency meteorologists and intelligence staffs in support of resource allocation and prioritization.
Preparedness Levels – A national system of preparedness for incidents. The levels are 1 through 5:
Preparedness Level 1 – Few or no active fires under 100 acres. Minimal or no commitment of fire resources. Low
to moderate fire danger. Agencies above draw down levels.
Preparedness Level 2 – Numerous fires under 100 acres. Local commitment of resources for initial attack.
Moderate fire danger. Agencies above drawdown levels and requests for resources outside local area are minimal.
Preparedness Level 3 – High potential for fires 100 acres & above to occur, with several 0-99 acre fires active.
Fire danger moderate to very high. Mobilization of resources within the region and minimal requests outside of
region. Agencies above or having difficulty maintaining draw down levels.
Preparedness Level 4 – Fires over 100 acres are common. Fire danger is high to very high. Resource mobilization
is coming from outside the region. Agencies at minimum draw down levels.
Preparedness Level 5 – CALMAC is fully activated. Multiple large fires are common in the north and or the south.
Fire danger is very high to extreme. Resources are being mobilized through the National Coordination Center.
Activation of National Guard or military done or under consideration.
Santa Ana Winds – Is a type of Foehn wind. A Foehn wind is a warm, dry and strong general wind that flows down into the
valleys when stable, high pressure air is forced across and then down the lee side slopes of a mountain range. The
descending air is warmed and dried due to adiabatic compression producing critical fire weather conditions.
Locally called by various names such as Santa Ana winds.
South Ops – The multi-agency geographic area coordinating center for southern California. Located in Riverside, it is staffed
by CDF, State OES and Federal fire agencies.
STRIKE TEAM - An engine strike team consists of five fire engines of the same type and a lead vehicle. The strike team leader
is usually a captain or a battalion chief. Strike Teams can also be made up of bulldozers and handcrews.
Spot Fire or Spotting – A small fire that is ahead of the main fire that is caused from hot embers being carried to a
receptive fuel bed. Spotting indicates extreme fire conditions.
Red Flag Warning – Term used by fire weather forecasters to alert users to an ongoing or imminent critical fire weather
pattern.
Rehabilitation – The activities necessary to repair damage or disturbance caused by wildfire or the wildfire suppression
activity.
State Responsibility Area (SRA) - The California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection classifies areas in which the
primary financial responsibility for preventing and suppressing fires is that of the state. CDF has SRA responsibility
for the protection of over 31 million acres of California’s privately-owned wildlands.
Slop-Over – A fire edge that crosses a control line or natural barrier intended to confine the fire. Also called breakover.
Unified Command – In ICS, unified command is a unified team effort which allows all agencies with jurisdictional responsibility for the incident, either geographical or functional, to manage an incident by establishing a common set of
incident objectives and strategies.
WFSA – Wildland Fire Situation Analysis
Wildland/Urban Interface – The line, area, or zone where structures and other human development meet or intermingle
with undeveloped wildland or vegetative fuels.
Contact Us
CAL FIRE Sacramento Human Resources Office: (916) 445-7824.
FFII/ FAE Hotline: For information regarding the Fire Fighter II (FFII), Fire Apparatus Engineer (FAE), and Paramedic Examinations, please call the FFII/FAE Hotline at (916) 445-7842.