How to Become a California Forestry Firefighter
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) is responsible for the protection of the people, property and the forests and other natural resources in the state. Its permanent and seasonal firefighters respond to all fires that may occur on any of the more than 31 million acres of wildlands in the state. They are also trained to handle residential and commercial structural fires, hazardous material spills, vehicular accidents, medical emergencies (such as heart attacks), drownings, train wrecks, search-and-rescue missions and other types of emergencies.
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Things You'll Need
- Physical fitness
- Basic courses in fire science or fire technology
- Firefighting experience
Instructions
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Become physically fit. As a firefighter, you will be performing heavy, strenuous and dangerous work. You may find yourself working continuously for several days to fight wildland fires. Therefore, it is essential that you maintain a regular program that develops your physical strength, agility and endurance.
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Meet educational requirements. CAL FIRE expects all its employees to have a strong foundation in reading, writing and mathematics. To be competitive, take classes in fire science or fire technology, or complete a volunteer training program offered by a fire academy. Also, you might consider enrolling in programs to obtain first responder and emergency medical certifications.
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Gain firefighting experience. Many wildland firefighters start their careers by first volunteering with fire departments, then working in seasonal or temporary positions. CAL FIRE has both volunteer and seasonal positions available.
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Do your research. Learn about CAL FIRE's missions, its various departments and units, and the career opportunities that are available. Learn the difference between seasonal and permanent firefighter positions, and identify the positions for which you are qualified. CAL FIRE provides some information at its website (see References). You might also talk with different CAL FIRE firefighters about their jobs and ask for advice on how you can best obtain work with the agency.
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Apply for a CAL FIRE position. Contact the CAL FIRE unit where you want to work for details about its application process. Some units accept only mail-in applications, others require that individuals apply in person between certain hours and some units allow applicants to do both. CAL FIRE hires applicants who pass the selection process, which usually includes an oral interview and a background check. Recruits must then complete required training programs.
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Tips & Warnings
Applications for seasonal positions (Fire Fighter I) are usually accepted between November and January.
File an separate application at each unit for which you want to work.
Have a valid California driver's license and a clean driving record.
You must be at least 18 years old at the time of appointment.
The competition for both seasonal and permanent positions is strong.
Be sure to submit your job application by the deadline; otherwise, you will not be considered for the job.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Fire image by Luke Haverkamp from Fotolia.com
