Firefighter - Entry

Summary

Firefighter

The City of Santa Barbara Fire Department is seeking an entry level Firefighter. Under general supervision, Firefighters suppress fires, respond to medical emergencies and hazardous conditions and other types of emergency and public service incidents; perform fire safety inspections; and perform related work as required.

PAY RATES: Firefighter Entry Level: $84,276 - $102,438 Annually Firefighter: (After successful completion of 10-week Firefighter Academy) $93,640 - $113,821 Annually Incentive pay opportunities include CA EMT-D certification, State Firefighter 1and 2 certifications, State Company Officer courses/certification, Water Rescue Team Member, Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Core Classes. NO APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED BEFORE 8:00 A.M. ON FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 11, 2026 Opening at 8:00 a.m. on Friday, September 11, 2026 And Closing at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, September 21, 2026 PLEASE NOTE: ALL APPLICATIONS MUST BE SUBMITTED ONLINE TO BE CONSIDERED ABOUT US At the City of Santa Barbara, the best part of our organization is our people. As a City of Santa Barbara employee, you will work in an environment with other motivated individuals who are passionate about their work. The work that you do has a tangible impact on our community. We are about more than the bottom line; our work ensures the health and safety of residents and visitors, protects and preserves our heritage and the natural environment, and enriches lives. Discover more about us, our values and our organizational culture here As City employees, we are the stewards of this beautiful place. Our job is to help the elected officials serve everyone in our community and ensure Santa Barbara continues to be a special place for future generations. It is important work that you can be proud to perform.

Employment Standards

Knowledge of: Principles and practices of fire suppression, rescue, emergency medical services, hazardous materials response, and emergency operations. Basic structural and wildland fire behavior, fire prevention, fire suppression tactics, and incident control. Basic building construction, materials, and structural characteristics as they relate to fire behavior and emergency operations. Basic life support and emergency medical procedures. Search, rescue, extrication, and patient transportation procedures. Firefighting tools, equipment, appliances, hose, ladders, and apparatus, including their uses, operation, readiness, and maintenance. Personal protective equipment and its proper use, care, and maintenance. Incident Command System (ICS) principles and practices.

Ability to: Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with coworkers, supervisors, other agencies, and members of the public. Receive, understand, and follow oral and written instructions, including technical materials, manuals, policies, procedures, and training materials. Learn and apply technical knowledge and practical skills through classroom instruction, hands-on training, practice, and feedback. Work effectively as a member of a team and establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with coworkers, supervisors, and the public. Live and work cooperatively in a firehouse environment. Apply basic mechanical principles in the operation and use of firefighting tools, equipment, and apparatus. Interpret and apply department policies, procedures, rules, and standards related to training, drills, personnel conduct, assignments, scheduling, and performance expectations. Perform basic computer operations and effectively utilize for email, scheduling, and other routine communications. Maintain professional conduct during all interactions with the public. Apply basic knowledge of building construction, fire behavior, and related principles to emergency operations and pre-fire planning. Operate a radio and communicate effectively during emergency and non-emergency activities. Complete training documentation, using appropriate department systems. Use appropriate judgment and respond effectively and professionally during routine, emergency, stressful, and potentially hazardous situations. Comply with Santa Barbara City Fire Department Standard Operating Procedures, City of Santa Barbara policies, and applicable laws, regulations, and standards. Work effectively in confined spaces and under conditions involving heat, smoke, hazardous materials, adverse weather, unpleasant sights and odors, and other physically and emotionally demanding circumstances. Wear and properly use required personal protective equipment and perform duties requiring prolonged and rigorous physical activity. Maintain the physical condition necessary to safely and effectively perform the essential functions of the position. Work irregular schedules and additional shifts as required, including overtime, mandatory assignments, emergency callbacks, and other operational needs. Respond to out-of-town mutual aid assignments, for periods up to or exceeding 14 days, with short notice when required to meet planned or emergency operational needs.

Age: Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of application. Physical Requirements: Must meet and maintain applicable NFPA 1582 medical standards and maintain the physical ability necessary to safely and effectively perform the essential functions of the position. Position requirements may include, but are not limited to: Frequently lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, and maneuvering firefighting equipment and occasionally moving or assisting injured persons. Performing prolonged and strenuous physical activity during emergency operations and training. Climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, and working in awkward or confined positions. Handling and operating tools, equipment, ladders, hose, and other firefighting equipment. Maintaining control of charged fire hose during fire suppression and training activities. Using hands and fingers for fine-motor activities, including tying knots and making precise adjustments. Using touch to identify objects and characteristics such as temperature and shape. Hearing and distinguishing sounds, alarms, radio transmissions, and other emergency signals. Demonstrating sufficient vision, including color recognition, to safely perform firefighting, rescue, emergency medical, and related duties.

Education: High school diploma or G.E.D. License and/or Training Requirements: Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid CA Class A, B or C Driver's License. A valid CA or National Registry EMT certification OR valid CA Paramedic License Accredited California Firefighter 1 Academy Completion OR California Firefighter I Certificate OR IFSAC Pro Board equivalent to include completion of the following testing: Fire Fighter 1A: Structure Fire Fighter 1B: HazMat FRA/FRO Fire Fighter 1C: Wildland Must be current on the Firefighter Candidate Testing Center (FCTC) Statewide Eligibility List (SEL) on 9/21/26. (For more information on how to be placed on the FCTC SEL, visit Cal-JAC CPAT (Candidate Physical Ability Test) Card must be dated between 9/21/25 and 9/21/26. A passing score on the FCTC Written Test must be dated between 9/21/25 and 9/21/26. To view upcoming Cal-JAC CPAT and FCTC Written Test dates, click here ( . Candidates experiencing financial hardship may qualify for financial aid to pay for their FCTC testing fees. (

Selection Process

It is important that your application and supplemental questionnaire show all the relevant education, training, and experience you possess which qualifies you for this position. Qualified candidates will be invited to continue in the selection process, following the review of the application, supplemental questionnaire and Statewide Eligibility testing results. The successful candidate's employment history will be thoroughly evaluated prior to appointment. The selection process may consist of the following: Application Personal History Statement (PHS) questionnaire to be submitted, tentatively, by October 9th, 2026. Oral Interview / Assessment Center: Tentatively scheduled for October 5th-9th, 2026. Chief Oral Interview: Tentatively scheduled for October 27th-28th, 2026. Background Investigation / LiveScan fingerprints Medical Examination (NFPA 1582) and Controlled Substances Screening Psychological Evaluation RECRUIT ACADEMY: Candidates must successfully complete each phase of the selection process to be scheduled for subsequent phases. Upon hire, candidates will be required to successfully complete a training academy of approximately ten (10) weeks. The City of Santa Barbara runs its own Recruit Firefighter Academy, which is tentatively scheduled to begin in February 2027.

Additional Information

CITY APPLICATION AND RESPONSES TO THE SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONNAIRE MUST BE RECEIVED BY 5:00 PM ON MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2026. PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS RECRUITMENT MAY CLOSE BEFORE SEPTEMBER 21st IF 350 APPLICATIONS ARE RECEIVED PRIOR TO THE FILING DEADLINE.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) The City of Santa Barbara is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an EEO employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, or other factors. We believe in fostering an inclusive work environment where employees feel valued, respected and empowered.

Disaster Services Assignments As public employees, we play an enhanced role in the event of a disaster or other emergency in our community. You will be registered as a disaster services worker, and you will be issued a disaster services identification card. In the event of a disaster or other emergency, make sure that your family is safe and secure first

Job Description

Firefighter

The City of Santa Barbara Fire Department is seeking an entry level Firefighter. Under general supervision, Firefighters suppress fires, respond to medical emergencies and hazardous conditions and other types of emergency and public service incidents; perform fire safety inspections; and perform related work as required.

PAY RATES: Firefighter Entry Level: $84,276 - $102,438 Annually Firefighter: (After successful completion of 10-week Firefighter Academy) $93,640 - $113,821 Annually Incentive pay opportunities include CA EMT-D certification, State Firefighter 1and 2 certifications, State Company Officer courses/certification, Water Rescue Team Member, Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Core Classes. NO APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED BEFORE 8:00 A.M. ON FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 11, 2026 Opening at 8:00 a.m. on Friday, September 11, 2026 And Closing at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, September 21, 2026 PLEASE NOTE: ALL APPLICATIONS MUST BE SUBMITTED ONLINE TO BE CONSIDERED ABOUT US At the City of Santa Barbara, the best part of our organization is our people. As a City of Santa Barbara employee, you will work in an environment with other motivated individuals who are passionate about their work. The work that you do has a tangible impact on our community. We are about more than the bottom line; our work ensures the health and safety of residents and visitors, protects and preserves our heritage and the natural environment, and enriches lives. Discover more about us, our values and our organizational culture here As City employees, we are the stewards of this beautiful place. Our job is to help the elected officials serve everyone in our community and ensure Santa Barbara continues to be a special place for future generations. It is important work that you can be proud to perform.

Employment Standards

Knowledge of: Principles and practices of fire suppression, rescue, emergency medical services, hazardous materials response, and emergency operations. Basic structural and wildland fire behavior, fire prevention, fire suppression tactics, and incident control. Basic building construction, materials, and structural characteristics as they relate to fire behavior and emergency operations. Basic life support and emergency medical procedures. Search, rescue, extrication, and patient transportation procedures. Firefighting tools, equipment, appliances, hose, ladders, and apparatus, including their uses, operation, readiness, and maintenance. Personal protective equipment and its proper use, care, and maintenance. Incident Command System (ICS) principles and practices.

Ability to: Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with coworkers, supervisors, other agencies, and members of the public. Receive, understand, and follow oral and written instructions, including technical materials, manuals, policies, procedures, and training materials. Learn and apply technical knowledge and practical skills through classroom instruction, hands-on training, practice, and feedback. Work effectively as a member of a team and establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with coworkers, supervisors, and the public. Live and work cooperatively in a firehouse environment. Apply basic mechanical principles in the operation and use of firefighting tools, equipment, and apparatus. Interpret and apply department policies, procedures, rules, and standards related to training, drills, personnel conduct, assignments, scheduling, and performance expectations. Perform basic computer operations and effectively utilize for email, scheduling, and other routine communications. Maintain professional conduct during all interactions with the public. Apply basic knowledge of building construction, fire behavior, and related principles to emergency operations and pre-fire planning. Operate a radio and communicate effectively during emergency and non-emergency activities. Complete training documentation, using appropriate department systems. Use appropriate judgment and respond effectively and professionally during routine, emergency, stressful, and potentially hazardous situations. Comply with Santa Barbara City Fire Department Standard Operating Procedures, City of Santa Barbara policies, and applicable laws, regulations, and standards. Work effectively in confined spaces and under conditions involving heat, smoke, hazardous materials, adverse weather, unpleasant sights and odors, and other physically and emotionally demanding circumstances. Wear and properly use required personal protective equipment and perform duties requiring prolonged and rigorous physical activity. Maintain the physical condition necessary to safely and effectively perform the essential functions of the position. Work irregular schedules and additional shifts as required, including overtime, mandatory assignments, emergency callbacks, and other operational needs. Respond to out-of-town mutual aid assignments, for periods up to or exceeding 14 days, with short notice when required to meet planned or emergency operational needs.

Age: Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of application. Physical Requirements: Must meet and maintain applicable NFPA 1582 medical standards and maintain the physical ability necessary to safely and effectively perform the essential functions of the position. Position requirements may include, but are not limited to: Frequently lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, and maneuvering firefighting equipment and occasionally moving or assisting injured persons. Performing prolonged and strenuous physical activity during emergency operations and training. Climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, and working in awkward or confined positions. Handling and operating tools, equipment, ladders, hose, and other firefighting equipment. Maintaining control of charged fire hose during fire suppression and training activities. Using hands and fingers for fine-motor activities, including tying knots and making precise adjustments. Using touch to identify objects and characteristics such as temperature and shape. Hearing and distinguishing sounds, alarms, radio transmissions, and other emergency signals. Demonstrating sufficient vision, including color recognition, to safely perform firefighting, rescue, emergency medical, and related duties.

Education: High school diploma or G.E.D. License and/or Training Requirements: Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid CA Class A, B or C Driver's License. A valid CA or National Registry EMT certification OR valid CA Paramedic License Accredited California Firefighter 1 Academy Completion OR California Firefighter I Certificate OR IFSAC Pro Board equivalent to include completion of the following testing: Fire Fighter 1A: Structure Fire Fighter 1B: HazMat FRA/FRO Fire Fighter 1C: Wildland Must be current on the Firefighter Candidate Testing Center (FCTC) Statewide Eligibility List (SEL) on 9/21/26. (For more information on how to be placed on the FCTC SEL, visit Cal-JAC CPAT (Candidate Physical Ability Test) Card must be dated between 9/21/25 and 9/21/26. A passing score on the FCTC Written Test must be dated between 9/21/25 and 9/21/26. To view upcoming Cal-JAC CPAT and FCTC Written Test dates, click here ( . Candidates experiencing financial hardship may qualify for financial aid to pay for their FCTC testing fees. (

Selection Process

It is important that your application and supplemental questionnaire show all the relevant education, training, and experience you possess which qualifies you for this position. Qualified candidates will be invited to continue in the selection process, following the review of the application, supplemental questionnaire and Statewide Eligibility testing results. The successful candidate's employment history will be thoroughly evaluated prior to appointment. The selection process may consist of the following: Application Personal History Statement (PHS) questionnaire to be submitted, tentatively, by October 9th, 2026. Oral Interview / Assessment Center: Tentatively scheduled for October 5th-9th, 2026. Chief Oral Interview: Tentatively scheduled for October 27th-28th, 2026. Background Investigation / LiveScan fingerprints Medical Examination (NFPA 1582) and Controlled Substances Screening Psychological Evaluation RECRUIT ACADEMY: Candidates must successfully complete each phase of the selection process to be scheduled for subsequent phases. Upon hire, candidates will be required to successfully complete a training academy of approximately ten (10) weeks. The City of Santa Barbara runs its own Recruit Firefighter Academy, which is tentatively scheduled to begin in February 2027.

Additional Information

CITY APPLICATION AND RESPONSES TO THE SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONNAIRE MUST BE RECEIVED BY 5:00 PM ON MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2026. PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS RECRUITMENT MAY CLOSE BEFORE SEPTEMBER 21st IF 350 APPLICATIONS ARE RECEIVED PRIOR TO THE FILING DEADLINE.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) The City of Santa Barbara is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an EEO employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, or other factors. We believe in fostering an inclusive work environment where employees feel valued, respected and empowered.

Disaster Services Assignments As public employees, we play an enhanced role in the event of a disaster or other emergency in our community. You will be registered as a disaster services worker, and you will be issued a disaster services identification card. In the event of a disaster or other emergency, make sure that your family is safe and secure first