San Diego Fire-Rescue Department Career Opportunities
Choosing a career as a Firefighter can be the beginning of a journey, which can lead to one of the most challenging,
exciting and rewarding experiences in your life. The following is a brief overview of some of the things
that you should know as you consider this career choice.
- Firefighting is inherently a dangerous occupation. Emergency calls can consist of brush fires,
structure fires, automobile accidents, and life-threatening medical emergencies. All must be
responded to with urgency and professionalism.
- Firefighting is very physically demanding. Firefighters carry 80-100 pounds of equipment such
as hoses, axes, ladders, chain saws, extinguishers, and medical aid equipment into and around the
fire to rescue victims and extinguish the flames. This may include climbing many flights of stairs
while fully equipped. The Department provides time and equipment during your shift to maintain the
expected level of fitness.
- Firefighters live one-third of their career life in a fire station, working shifts in 24-hour
increments, 9 to 11 times per month. While on duty, firefighters live and sleep in dormitory style
quarters.
- While not out on a call, firefighters must constantly work at keeping the station and equipment in
excellent condition. Much of the firefighters’ station time is spent maintaining living quarters,
the fire station and the equipment.
A career in Firefighting can be a fulfilling experience. The many personal rewards include…
- Community Leader/Role Model
- Opportunity to Save and Change Lives
- Satisfaction of Succeeding in a Challenging and Rewarding Career
- Pride in Serving the People of your Community
- Be a Part of the Emergency Services Family
There are also many other excellent benefits including…
- Firefighter Base Monthly Salary Range From $3258 to $5,500
- Career Advancement Opportunities (Firefighter – Fire Chief)
- Desirable Work Schedule (Up to 21 days off per month)
- 11 Annual Paid Holidays
- 17 Days Annual Paid Vacation/Sick Leave
- Health/Dental Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Excellent Retirement Plans
- 401(k)k Plan
- Deferred Compensation Plan
- City’s Pension Plan
- Job Security
The City does not advertise widely for positions where the number of local applicants significantly
exceeds the number of jobs available, such as Fire Recruit. These jobs are opened infrequently
and the resulting eligibility list usually lasts for two years.
For more information on a career with San Diego Fire-Rescue, please review our
Frequently Asked Questions or contact the
Community Outreach Office.
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