Firefighter Recruit

About This Role

The San Francisco Fire Department is recruiting Firefighter Recruits to serve one of America's most densely built and geographically complex cities. SFFD responds to structural fires in Victorian-era buildings, earthquake preparedness incidents, marine emergencies on the Bay, and a high volume of medical calls across San Francisco's 49 square miles.

Job Overview

• Job Title: Firefighter Recruit
• Company: San Francisco Fire Department
• Location: San Francisco, CA
• Job Type: Full-time
• Experience Level: Entry-level
• Salary Range: $26–$38/hr
• Posted Date: 2026-06-01
• Application Deadline: 2026-07-01

Role Context

SFFD recruits complete a 16-week training academy at Treasure Island, covering structural firefighting, EMS, marine operations, and earthquake response. San Francisco's hillside terrain, narrow streets, and dense Victorian wood-frame construction create a technically demanding firefighting environment unlike most U.S. cities. Recruits are assigned to one of 44 fire stations on a 24-on/72-off shift schedule.

Key Responsibilities

• Fight structural fires in dense Victorian wood-frame neighborhoods with narrow access
• Provide emergency medical services as a state-certified EMT
• Support earthquake emergency response and USAR operations
• Conduct marine rescue and water operations on San Francisco Bay
• Respond to haz-mat incidents at port facilities and chemical storage sites
• Participate in community outreach and public fire safety education programs

Requirements & Skills

• Must be at least 18 years old; California residency preferred
• High school diploma or GED required
• Pass City of San Francisco civil service written exam
• CPAT certification required prior to appointment
• Valid California driver's license
• Pass SFFD medical, psychological, and background screening

Benefits & Work Conditions

• $26–$38/hr — among the highest entry firefighter wages in the country
• San Francisco Employees' Retirement System (SFERS) pension
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits
• 24-on/72-off shift schedule (more days off than 24/48 schedules)
• Hazard duty pay supplements and uniform/equipment allowance

Who Should Apply

Candidates who want to serve in one of the most technically challenging urban fire environments in the U.S., with an exceptional salary, strong benefits, and a department that values diversity and progressive emergency service practices. SFFD actively recruits women and underrepresented communities.

About the Company

The San Francisco Fire Department operates 44 fire stations with over 1,700 uniformed personnel. Known for its earthquake preparedness capabilities, marine operations, and community engagement programs, SFFD also operates one of the most progressive firefighter wellness and injury prevention programs in the country.

How to Apply

Apply through the San Francisco Department of Human Resources at sf.gov/careers. Monitor for open exam announcements. The process includes a civil service written exam, CPAT, oral board, medical evaluation, and background investigation.