How to get hired at CA Department of Forestry and Fire Protection- HQ

Written by a career firefighter · Updated 2026-11-04

Hiring statusNot currently hiring

The 2026-season Fire Fighter I posting (Until Filled, application cut-off March 31, 2026) filled vacancies from its candidate pool through Oct 31, 2026. Check CalCareers for the next season's posting. src

LocationSacramento, CA

Career firefighters3,800

Stations268

CAL FIRE's entry-level firefighter job is the seasonal Fire Fighter I, a full-time, temporary, non-tenured state position. It is a non-testing classification: applicants who meet the minimum qualifications apply through CalCareers or by mail, and candidates are screened by resume review in application rounds. Returning seasonal firefighters get hiring preference.

Apply / get notified Official recruitment page

Minimum requirements

Meet Fire Fighter I class specification minimum qualifications (non-testing classification; select 'I have eligibility' when applying) src
Pass medical clearance, including the Respiratory Protection Program src
Willing to work remote areas, weekends and holidays, and remain on duty 24 hours a day as required src
Application package: STD 678 (or CalCareers application), resume, PO-299, Work Location Form, copy of driver's license src
Valid California driver license of appropriate class is desirable src

Hiring process

Create CalCareers account
Submit Fire Fighter I application package (online, mail or drop-off)
Resume review in application rounds
Job offer
Medical clearance

Source: official page

Starting pay

$4,403-$5,566/month base plus Extended Duty Week Compensation; about $54,218-$68,539 for a maximum 9-month season src

Checked 2026-11-05 against the department's official pages (linked). Hiring windows open and close quickly; always confirm on the official site before you apply. See every academy, EMT program and test site in California.