Firefighter Recruit
Sacramento Fire Department · Posted Jul 2, 2026
Apply on company site Track it in JobSkout
About This Role
The Sacramento Fire Department is recruiting Firefighter Recruits to serve California's state capital. Located at the confluence of the Sacramento and American Rivers, SFD recruits handle structural fires, river rescue operations, wildland interface fires during California's dry season, and a high EMS call volume in a growing urban core.
Job Overview
Job Title: Firefighter Recruit
Company: Sacramento Fire Department
Location: Sacramento, CA
Job Type: Full-time
Experience Level: Entry-level
Salary Range: $21–$30/hr
Posted Date: 2026-06-01
Application Deadline: 2026-07-01
Role Context
SFD recruits complete a 16-week fire academy integrating structural suppression, swift water rescue, and wildland interface firefighting. All recruits earn California EMT certification. The department operates 26 fire stations and responds to over 90,000 incidents annually. Response to California's Capitol Complex adds a distinct dimension to the department's operational profile.
Key Responsibilities
Suppress residential and commercial fires in Sacramento's mix of historic and modern districts
Respond to wildland and interface fires during California's summer and fall fire season
Conduct swift water and flood rescue operations on the Sacramento and American Rivers
Provide BLS emergency medical care as a California-certified EMT
Perform vehicle extrication and technical rescue operations
Support state government building fire response at California's Capitol Complex
Requirements & Skills
California residency; must be at least 18 years old
High school diploma or GED required; 60 college credits preferred
Pass Sacramento Civil Service written exam and physical ability test
CPAT certification required prior to hire
Valid California driver's license with clean driving record
Pass background investigation, drug screen, medical and psychological evaluations
Benefits & Work Conditions
$21–$30/hr under IAFF Local 522 collective bargaining agreement
California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) pension
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits through CalPERS
24-on/48-off shift schedule
Swift water rescue and wildland red card certification support
Who Should Apply
California residents who want a career that spans structural fire, water rescue, and wildland operations in a state capital with strong public employee benefits. Sacramento Fire offers CalPERS — one of the country's most stable pension systems — alongside a diverse multi-hazard operational environment that prepares firefighters for advancement throughout the California fire service.
About the Company
Sacramento Fire Department operates 26 fire stations with over 600 uniformed personnel. The department serves California's state capital and provides specialized swift water rescue, wildland, and haz-mat response capabilities driven by Sacramento's position between the Sierra Nevada foothills, major river systems, and the Central Valley's agricultural and industrial areas.
How to Apply
Apply through the City of Sacramento Civil Service at cityofsacramento.org/fire/careers. The hiring process includes a written civil service exam, physical ability test, CPAT, oral board, background investigation, and medical and psychological evaluations.