Firefighter Trainee

This is a non-sworn trainee classification. Under close supervision and in a learning capacity, incumbents attend the department's recruit academy and receive training on emergency medical services, rescue, hazardous materials, and the various phases of fire prevention and suppression; learns the functions performed by the fire department; and performs other work as required.

Minimum Qualifications:
Applications will be accepted only from those applicants who clearly demonstrate on the COMPLETED application & supplemental questionnaire that they meet the below requirements:
- Graduation from high school or GED equivalent; AND
- At least 18 years of age.

Licenses, Certificates or Special Requirements:
- Possession of a valid California Class "C" driver's license at time of appointment is required;
- Possession of a current and valid State of California Emergency Medical Technician 1 (EMT-1) Certificate or current and valid National Registry Emergency Medical Technician (NREMT) certification or higher;
- Possession of a Biddle or Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) issued within 12 months of the filing deadline (dated between 10/26/25 and 10/26/26)
- Possession of a passing written test score issued by the Firefighter Candidate Testing Center (FCTC) issued within 12 months of the filing deadline (dated between 10/26/25 and 10/26/26). You may obtain information on how to complete the written test by going to FCTConline.org.
- Must be able to pass a background check.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATION: Paramedic Certificate and completed college level coursework/degree in Fire Science or related field.

NON-SMOKING REQUIREMENT: Prospective employees will be required to sign an affidavit indicating that they have not smoked during the twelve (12) month period prior to hiring by the City. Further, they will agree that they will not smoke, either on or off duty, during the term of their employment with the City. Violation of the non-smoking agreement will result in disciplinary action.

Examination (Weighted: 100%)
Oral Appraisal Interview (Weighted 100%)
Week of November 9th, 2026 (Tentative): An appraisal will be made of applicants training, education, experience, communication skills, and personal qualifications for the position. A minimum rating of 70% is required to qualify for the eligible list. NOTE: Only the applicants with the TOP WRITTEN SCORES will be the initial group that proceeds to the Oral Appraisal Interview.

Background Investigation (Pass/Fail): Prior to appointment, applicant must successfully complete an investigation of their personal history and background to determine suitability for the position of Firefighter with the Bakersfield Fire Department.

BENEFITS:
INSURANCE: The City and the employee share contributions for premiums for health insurance coverage. The City provides life insurance benefits based on bargaining unit.

RETIREMENT: Benefits are provided by the City's participation in the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). 2% @ 62 for new hire Miscellaneous and 2.7% @ 57 for Safety (Fire & Police).

HOW TO APPLY:
Employment applications must be properly completed in accordance with instructions on face of application form. All pertinent information needed to determine that the applicant meets the minimum qualifications must be shown on the application, resume, supplemental questionnaire, and typing certificate; otherwise, the application may be rejected. NOTE: POSTMARKS will not be accepted. Resumes will NOT be accepted in lieu of COMPLETED application.

You may submit these documents on-line as an attachment; mail or bring to the Human Resources Department, City Hall 1600 Truxtun Avenue, 1st Floor, Bakersfield, CA 93301; email to AdmHrs@bakersfieldcity.us, or Fax to (661) 852-2070. The documents must reference the recruitment name and number (i.e. Firefighter Trainee #02501) and be submitted to the attention of Tanya Wilson.

Requirements: Non-sworn trainee classification

Salary: $46,704.32 Annually

Application Deadline: 2026-10-26