Fire Department · Career
California Department Of Forestry And Fire Protection
El Cajon, CA · San Diego County
No active openings right now
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Department careers page ↗The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) is the state's fire protection and natural resource management agency. Its work spans wildland, rural, and structural firefighting, all-hazard emergency response, forest and resource management, aviation firefighting, and the Office of the State Fire Marshal.
CAL FIRE celebrates nearly 140 years of history and operates statewide, organized into operational units that cover California's varied landscapes. The department combines frontline fire suppression with year-round prevention work such as prescribed fire, fuels reduction, and defensible-space outreach.
Beyond firefighting, CAL FIRE runs forestry, aviation, and resource-management programs, giving it an unusually broad mission for a fire agency. The department operates under a set of shared values: Integrity, Service, Community, and Diversity.
As a State of California employer, CAL FIRE offers careers across Fire Protection, Resource Management, Aviation, and support functions, from entry-level Fire Fighter I roles up through chief officer and administrator ranks.
MissionThe California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) serves and safeguards the people and protects the property and resources of California.
CAL FIRE hires through California's state civil-service system. Firefighting classifications include Fire Fighter I, Fire Fighter II (Non-Paramedic/Paramedic), Fire Apparatus Engineer, Heavy Fire Equipment Operator, Fire Captain, Battalion Chief, Assistant Chief, and Unit Chief, alongside separate career tracks in Aviation, Forestry, and Resource Management.
Most positions require passing a classification exam before you can apply. The process runs through a CalCareers account: create your profile, search jobs and exams, take the required exam to be placed on an eligibility list, then apply for open positions. Job-opportunity questions can be directed to CAL FIRE Recruitment at CALFIRErecruitment@fire.ca.gov.
Requirements
- Create or log into a CalCareers account to apply for state positions
- Pass the required classification exam for most positions to be placed on an eligibility list
Hiring process
- Create or log into your CalCareers account
- Search available jobs and exams by keyword, location, department, or job type
- Take the required classification exam to be placed on an eligibility list
- Apply for open positions in your classification and submit a complete application
Benefits
As a State of California employer, CAL FIRE offers a comprehensive benefits package including CalPERS retirement, health, dental, and vision plans, paid time off, flexible work arrangements, health and wellness support, and professional development opportunities.
How do I apply for a job at CAL FIRE?
Create or log into a CalCareers account, search for jobs and exams, take the required classification exam to get on an eligibility list, and then apply for open positions in that classification.
Do I need to take an exam to be hired?
Yes. Most California state jobs, including CAL FIRE firefighting classifications, require passing a classification exam. Passing places you on an eligibility list so you can apply for jobs in that classification.
What firefighting positions does CAL FIRE hire for?
Firefighting classifications include Fire Fighter I, Fire Fighter II (Non-Paramedic/Paramedic), Fire Apparatus Engineer, Heavy Fire Equipment Operator, Fire Captain, Battalion Chief, Assistant Chief, and Unit Chief.
What benefits does CAL FIRE offer?
As a State of California employee you get a comprehensive package including CalPERS retirement, health, dental, and vision plans, paid time off, flexible work arrangements, and professional development.
Who do I contact about job opportunities?
CAL FIRE Recruitment can be reached at CALFIRErecruitment@fire.ca.gov or (916) 894-9585.
Does CAL FIRE offer careers beyond firefighting?
Yes. In addition to fire protection, CAL FIRE has career tracks in Aviation, Forestry, and Resource Management.