Firefighter Recruit

About This Role

The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department is recruiting Firefighter Recruits for one of California's most wildland-active urban fire departments. San Diego's position in Southern California's fire-prone chaparral region means SDFD firefighters regularly deploy to major wildland incidents in addition to daily structural fire and EMS responses across the city's 372 square miles.

Job Overview

• Job Title: Firefighter Recruit
• Company: San Diego Fire-Rescue Department
• Location: San Diego, CA
• Job Type: Full-time
• Experience Level: Entry-level
• Salary Range: $22–$32/hr
• Posted Date: 2026-06-01
• Application Deadline: 2026-07-01

Role Context

SDFD recruits complete a 16-week academy that integrates structural firefighting with significant wildland fire curriculum. All recruits earn EMT certification through the academy. SDFD operates 51 fire stations, including specialty units for haz-mat, urban search and rescue (USAR), and marine rescue along San Diego Bay.

Key Responsibilities

• Suppress structural fires in San Diego's mix of residential, commercial, and coastal communities
• Fight wildland and interface fires in San Diego's chaparral terrain during Santa Ana wind events
• Deliver BLS emergency medical services as a California-certified EMT
• Conduct marine and swift water rescue operations on San Diego Bay and inland waterways
• Participate in regional USAR team deployments for earthquake and collapse incidents
• Perform haz-mat awareness and operations-level response

Requirements & Skills

• California residency preferred; must be at least 18 years old
• High school diploma or GED; 60 college credits preferred
• Pass SDFD written exam and physical ability test
• CPAT certification required prior to hire
• Valid California driver's license
• EMT-Basic certification is a strong advantage at time of application

Benefits & Work Conditions

• $22–$32/hr under City of San Diego labor agreement
• San Diego City Employees' Retirement System (SDCERS) pension
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits
• 24-on/48-off shift schedule with Kelly days
• Specialty team pay for USAR, haz-mat, and dive assignments

Who Should Apply

Candidates who want the breadth of both structural and wildland fire experience, combined with EMS and marine rescue in a year-round outdoor climate. SDFD offers a diverse operational environment and strong specialty team development for motivated firefighters willing to pursue additional certifications over their career.

About the Company

San Diego Fire-Rescue Department operates 51 fire stations with over 1,100 uniformed personnel. A nationally recognized USAR team and one of California's most active wildland-urban interface fire programs make SDFD a department where entry-level firefighters gain exceptional breadth of experience.

How to Apply

Apply at sandiego.gov/fire/employment. The process includes a written civil service exam, physical ability evaluation, CPAT, oral board interview, background investigation, and medical and psychological evaluations.