What are the responsibilities and job description for the Firefighter position at City of Laguna Beach?
Description
THIS IS AN ADVANCE NOTICE OF AN EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED FROM 8:00 AM (PST) ON FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2025 THROUGH 11:59 PM (PST) THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2025.
At 8:00 AM (PST) on Friday, August 29 you can return to this job bulletin and click "Apply" to submit an application. The Written Exam will be available on August 29. You can schedule an appointment to test prior to Friday, August 29. However, you will need to call National Testing Network (NTN) before the application deadline to link your test to the Laguna Beach Firefighter Recruitment. To access the exam, click the link: NTN Firefighter Exam Link. To schedule an appointment or to use a previously valid test taken within the last year, contact National Testing Network (NTN) directly at (206) 428-3265. Make sure to link your test to the City of Laguna Beach before the application deadline.
For questions regarding this recruitment, please contact: Laguna Beach Fire Administration
Battalion Chief Lether
(949) 497-0700
Selection Process: The first 200 completed online qualified applications received with proof of required licenses and certifications and that have completed the Firefighter National Testing Network exam by September 11, 2025 will be reviewed to be considered for advancement to the testing process. Those recommended for further evaluation will be invited to participate in the Biddle Physical Ability Test, which is comprised of several physical tasks consistent with the duties of a Firefighter. The Biddle Test is tentatively scheduled for October 4 & October 5, 2025. Those who pass the Physical Ability Test will be placed on an eligibility list to be considered for Panel Interviews. Based on the City's needs the selection process may be modified.
In order to maintain an efficient selection process, please refrain from making station visits/calls or submitting supplemental items outside of the online application process. No hand delivered or emailed attachments will be accepted.
Pre-placement Process: Prospective Firefighters must successfully complete a thorough background investigation including a fingerprint check and may include a polygraph examination and psychological examination. Successful completion of a pre-placement medical exam including a pre-employment drug test is also required. Reference checks, employment, education, license and certification verification will also be conducted.
The Position: Under the direction of a Fire Captain, Firefighters are assigned to a 48-hour fire suppression and rescue shift and will respond to fire, medical and environmental emergencies; engage in fire prevention, suppression, and salvage activities; perform inspection and code enforcement activities; maintain fire apparatus, equipment and grounds; attend and participate in a variety of training sessions and exercises; and perform hydrant maintenance, company fire inspection. The Firefighter will initiate emergency care to injured and/or ill patients and render first aid and lifesaving techniques within the scope of practice as an Emergency Medical Technician. The position may be assigned special projects or other related duties as required, and may also be assigned to a 40 hour work week. Qualified Firefighter applicants with State of California Paramedic License are desirable.
See below for details on completing the written exam.
Important Application Information
You can also contact National Testing Network (NTN) directly and let them know you would like to schedule an appointment for the Laguna Beach Firefighter Recruitment.
Examples of Duties
To view the full class specifications (including employment standards and physical, mental and environmental working conditions) for Firefighter, click on the link below.
Firefighter
Qualifications
Education: High school diploma or G.E.D.
Certifications
The following licenses and certifications are required, and must be attached to the employment application. Any applicants who fail to attach the following will automatically be disqualified. Attachments must be clear and legible. Acceptable file formats for attachments include .pdf, .doc, and .xls.
This recruitment will be used to establish an eligibility list from which future vacancies may be filled.
Ability to: Perform the duties of a Firefighter as required; react quickly and calmly under emergency conditions; work cooperatively and effectively with those encountered in the performance of duties; understand and follow both verbal and written instruction; communicate effectively both verbally and in writing; handle multiple priorities in a well-organized and timely manner; provide effective customer service; operate City vehicles in a safe manner; operate heavy motor equipment at maximum operating efficiency consistent with needs, safety, and mechanical limitations of the equipment; work at heights greater than ten feet; perceive red, yellow, and blue colors to recognize hazards identified by fire diamonds; understand apparatus limitations as related to apparatus response and fire suppression activities. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.
Physical Requirements & Environmental Working Conditions
Work is performed in a variety of environmental conditions, with exposure to outdoor temperatures and weather variations, and hazardous materials or conditions. The position requires physical strength and agility to fight fires wearing protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus; lift and carry heavy objects; lift, pull, and use fire hoses; climb ladders and stairs; bend, stoop, kneel, crawl in tight places; withstand a variety of environmental factors including working in the heat or cold, confined spaces, on ladders/scaffolds, slippery/uneven surfaces, moving heavy objects/vehicles; work irregular hours; exposure to toxic chemicals, fumes, smoke, gases and solvents; and work long periods of time without relief.
City of Laguna Beach: With seven miles of City beaches and towering hills with captivating Pacific views, Laguna Beach residents enjoy some of the most stunning landscapes in Southern California. The City of Laguna Beach hosts millions of visitors to its world-famous arts festivals and beautiful beaches. Services provided to its resident population of approximately 23,000 include police, fire, marine safety, recreation, parks, public works, community development, parking, transit and animal control.
The Department: The Fire Department is organized into three budgetary divisions, Fire Operations/Training, Fire Prevention, and Measure LL funding. The Department responds to approximately 3,500 requests for emergency service each year. The majority (60%) for these incidents are emergency medical related; responses to fires in buildings, vehicles or the wildland, account for another 15% of the Department's emergency responses and 15% of emergency responses are rescues involving trapped persons as a result of vehicle accidents, falls from a cliff, construction site accidents, and weather-related incidents. The Department also responds to spills and releases of hazardous materials, public service and other miscellaneous requests which account for the remaining 10% of the Fire Department's incident responses. The Department maintains a fully equipped emergency response force of twelve firefighters and one chief officer on duty, at all times. The staff personnel include the Fire Chief, Deputy Chief, three Chief Officers (all have suppression and administrative duties), an Administrative Fire Captain, a Fire Marshal, a Fire Safety Inspector, an Administrative Assistant, an Ambulance Coordinator, and a part-time Fire Prevention Officer.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The City of Laguna Beach is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. We encourage you to inform Human Resources at least two business days prior to the first phase of the selection process if you have a disability that may require an accommodation. EEO/ADA.
FLSA Designation: Non-exempt
For Questions Regarding This Recruitment, Please Contact
Laguna Beach Fire Administration
Battalion Chief Lether
(949) 497-0700
Benefits for Laguna Beach Members of the Laguna Beach Firefighters Association (Local 3684)
Pay Plan: The basic pay ranges are composed of eight (8) steps, with each step varying by approximately five percent (5%).
Retirement: The City offers membership in the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS). The retirement formula is based on appointment date and membership status with CalPERS. 2.7% at 57 for PEPRA CalPERS Safety members; 3% at 55 for Classic CalPERS Safety members.
Health Coverage: The City covers the medical and dental insurance premium costs for employee-only and provides a contribution towards dependent premium costs. A medical insurance waiver program is available for employees covered by medical insurance other than the City’s medical insurance.
Vacation: Vacation leave accrues at a rate of 4.85 hours per pay period. This increases to 7.62 hours per pay period at six years of service, and to 9.47 hours per pay period at ten years of service. A cash-out option exists for accrued vacation time.
Holiday: Holiday time of one hundred thirty-two (132) hours is granted to shift personnel every fiscal year. 108 hours of the 132 hours the employee shall receive as payment.
Sick Leave: Sick leave accrues at a rate of 5.23 hours per pay period. Unused sick leave may be accumulated without limit.
Retirement Health Savings Plan: The City, on your behalf, deposits a monthly pre-tax contribution of one hundred dollars ($100) into your RHS account.
Life Insurance: The City provides a life insurance benefit in the amount of $50,000, including coverage for Accidental Death and Dismemberment and Long-term Disability.
Acting Pay: When a Firefighter is acting as an Engineer or an Engineer is acting as a Captain, the "Acting pay" shall be ten percent (10%) of the employee's current base pay. "Acting pay" for a Firefighter acting as a Captain shall be fifteen (15%) of the employee's current base pay. When a Captain is acting as a Battalion Chief, the "Acting pay", shall be ten percent (10%) of the employee's current base pay. In each case the pay is for actual hours worked, starting with the first hour worked.
Paramedic Pay: The premium for Firefighter Paramedics, Fire Paramedic Engineers, or Fire Paramedic Captains shall be equal to ten percent (10%) of the top salary step (base pay) of the Fire Engineer classification as it is adjusted from time to time.
When the first recertification is submitted the premium will increase from ten percent (10%) to twelve and one-half percent (12.5%). Upon submission of the second recertification the premium will increase from twice and one-half percent (12.5%) to fifteen percent (15%).
A bonus of two hundred dollars ($200) every two years shall also be paid upon submission of proof of successful renewal of his or her paramedic license, assuming the employee has maintained continuous paramedic status.
Additional Fire Certification Pay: Unit members may be eligible for an additional 2.5% certification pay for becoming certified as a Firefighter II, Firefighter Technician, or Wildland Technician and completing Emergency Medical Technician or Paramedic coursework.
Other Benefits: The City offers a Flexible Spending Account, Educational Reimbursement Program, Employee Assistance Program, Exceptional Performance Pay Program, and Bilingual Pay Program.
01
To be considered for this position, you must complete the Firefighter Written Exam through the National Testing Network (NTN). Have you completed or will you complete this exam and have your score submitted for the City of Laguna Beach by September 11, 2025?
This position requires that you possess one of the following: A.) Possession of a California Firefighter 1 certification OR B.) Proof of successful completion from a California State accredited Firefighter 1 Academy. Do you meet or exceed this requirement?
Do you possess a valid Driver's License?
If you answered "yes" to the above question, please indicate the class of driver's license you possess, and any endorsements you may possess (e.g., any Firefighter endorsements).
05
Please select the highest level of education you have completed.
Please clearly state any Fire Service related education you have completed. If you do not have any fire service related education, please write "N/A."
07
Do you possess a current S-290 (Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior) certification, and/or any other National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) or CICCS qualifications? If "yes," you MUST attach proof of certification.
Do you possess a valid current California EMT 1 certification? If "yes" you must ensure to attach proof of certification.
Do you possess current training and certification in State Fire Training (SFT) Driver Operator 1A? If "yes," you MUST attach proof of certification.
Do you possess a valid current CPR card issued by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross? If "yes," you must ensure to attach proof of certification.
How many years of experience do you possess working for a fire service agency in a Reserve, Volunteer, Ambulance Operator, Fire Intern, or EMS based position? You must ensure this experience is described in your application.
All applicants who fail to attach the following documents to their application will not be considered. 1.) Possession of a California Firefighter 1 certification OR Proof of successful completion from a California State accredited Firefighter 1 Academy 2.) Possession of a valid current California EMT 1 certification recognized by the California Emergency Medical Services Authority 3.) Possession of a valid current CPR card issued by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross 4.) A valid Driver's License Have you attached the documents listed above to your application?
THIS IS AN ADVANCE NOTICE OF AN EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED FROM 8:00 AM (PST) ON FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2025 THROUGH 11:59 PM (PST) THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2025.
At 8:00 AM (PST) on Friday, August 29 you can return to this job bulletin and click "Apply" to submit an application. The Written Exam will be available on August 29. You can schedule an appointment to test prior to Friday, August 29. However, you will need to call National Testing Network (NTN) before the application deadline to link your test to the Laguna Beach Firefighter Recruitment. To access the exam, click the link: NTN Firefighter Exam Link. To schedule an appointment or to use a previously valid test taken within the last year, contact National Testing Network (NTN) directly at (206) 428-3265. Make sure to link your test to the City of Laguna Beach before the application deadline.
For questions regarding this recruitment, please contact: Laguna Beach Fire Administration
Battalion Chief Lether
(949) 497-0700
Selection Process: The first 200 completed online qualified applications received with proof of required licenses and certifications and that have completed the Firefighter National Testing Network exam by September 11, 2025 will be reviewed to be considered for advancement to the testing process. Those recommended for further evaluation will be invited to participate in the Biddle Physical Ability Test, which is comprised of several physical tasks consistent with the duties of a Firefighter. The Biddle Test is tentatively scheduled for October 4 & October 5, 2025. Those who pass the Physical Ability Test will be placed on an eligibility list to be considered for Panel Interviews. Based on the City's needs the selection process may be modified.
In order to maintain an efficient selection process, please refrain from making station visits/calls or submitting supplemental items outside of the online application process. No hand delivered or emailed attachments will be accepted.
Pre-placement Process: Prospective Firefighters must successfully complete a thorough background investigation including a fingerprint check and may include a polygraph examination and psychological examination. Successful completion of a pre-placement medical exam including a pre-employment drug test is also required. Reference checks, employment, education, license and certification verification will also be conducted.
The Position: Under the direction of a Fire Captain, Firefighters are assigned to a 48-hour fire suppression and rescue shift and will respond to fire, medical and environmental emergencies; engage in fire prevention, suppression, and salvage activities; perform inspection and code enforcement activities; maintain fire apparatus, equipment and grounds; attend and participate in a variety of training sessions and exercises; and perform hydrant maintenance, company fire inspection. The Firefighter will initiate emergency care to injured and/or ill patients and render first aid and lifesaving techniques within the scope of practice as an Emergency Medical Technician. The position may be assigned special projects or other related duties as required, and may also be assigned to a 40 hour work week. Qualified Firefighter applicants with State of California Paramedic License are desirable.
See below for details on completing the written exam.
Important Application Information
- THE FIRST 200 COMPLETED QUALIFIED EMPLOYMENT APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED ONLINE TO THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH WILL BE REVIEWED TO BE CONSIDERED FOR ADVANCEMENT.
- To be considered, applicants MUST complete the Firefighter NTN Exam by no later than THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2025. It is advised that you schedule your Firefighter exam with NTN in order to complete the exam by the SEPTEMBER 11 deadline. Please click on the link below and select the "Laguna Beach Fire Department, Firefighter" position to begin signing up for the NTN Firefighter Exam.
You can also contact National Testing Network (NTN) directly and let them know you would like to schedule an appointment for the Laguna Beach Firefighter Recruitment.
Examples of Duties
To view the full class specifications (including employment standards and physical, mental and environmental working conditions) for Firefighter, click on the link below.
Firefighter
Qualifications
Education: High school diploma or G.E.D.
Certifications
The following licenses and certifications are required, and must be attached to the employment application. Any applicants who fail to attach the following will automatically be disqualified. Attachments must be clear and legible. Acceptable file formats for attachments include .pdf, .doc, and .xls.
- Possession of a California Firefighter 1 certification OR Proof of successful completion from a California State accredited Firefighter 1 Academy
- Possession of a valid current EMT 1 certification at time of application. Must have a valid current California EMT 1 certification recognized by the California Emergency Medical Services Authority by date of appointment.
- Possession of a valid current CPR card issued by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross
- A valid Driver's License is required at time of application. Please Note: A California Driver's License at time of hire date is required, and a California Class C Driver's License with a Firefighter Endorsement is required within 4 months of completing the Recruit Academy and being placed on a 56 hour shift schedule.
- An Associate's degree or higher with additional fire service related education
- A current and valid California EMT-P certification recognized by the California Emergency Medical Services Authority. In addition, the ability to obtain Orange County Accreditation as a condition of employment
- A State Fire Training (SFT) Driver Operator 1A
- Current fire service experience working in a Full-time, Reserve, Volunteer, Ambulance Operator (AO)/Fire Intern, EMS based program
- Current certification in S-290 (Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior) and NWCG and CICCS qualifications
- Community involvement experience
- Work experience in a culturally diverse environment
- Teaching and team building skills
This recruitment will be used to establish an eligibility list from which future vacancies may be filled.
Ability to: Perform the duties of a Firefighter as required; react quickly and calmly under emergency conditions; work cooperatively and effectively with those encountered in the performance of duties; understand and follow both verbal and written instruction; communicate effectively both verbally and in writing; handle multiple priorities in a well-organized and timely manner; provide effective customer service; operate City vehicles in a safe manner; operate heavy motor equipment at maximum operating efficiency consistent with needs, safety, and mechanical limitations of the equipment; work at heights greater than ten feet; perceive red, yellow, and blue colors to recognize hazards identified by fire diamonds; understand apparatus limitations as related to apparatus response and fire suppression activities. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.
Physical Requirements & Environmental Working Conditions
Work is performed in a variety of environmental conditions, with exposure to outdoor temperatures and weather variations, and hazardous materials or conditions. The position requires physical strength and agility to fight fires wearing protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus; lift and carry heavy objects; lift, pull, and use fire hoses; climb ladders and stairs; bend, stoop, kneel, crawl in tight places; withstand a variety of environmental factors including working in the heat or cold, confined spaces, on ladders/scaffolds, slippery/uneven surfaces, moving heavy objects/vehicles; work irregular hours; exposure to toxic chemicals, fumes, smoke, gases and solvents; and work long periods of time without relief.
City of Laguna Beach: With seven miles of City beaches and towering hills with captivating Pacific views, Laguna Beach residents enjoy some of the most stunning landscapes in Southern California. The City of Laguna Beach hosts millions of visitors to its world-famous arts festivals and beautiful beaches. Services provided to its resident population of approximately 23,000 include police, fire, marine safety, recreation, parks, public works, community development, parking, transit and animal control.
The Department: The Fire Department is organized into three budgetary divisions, Fire Operations/Training, Fire Prevention, and Measure LL funding. The Department responds to approximately 3,500 requests for emergency service each year. The majority (60%) for these incidents are emergency medical related; responses to fires in buildings, vehicles or the wildland, account for another 15% of the Department's emergency responses and 15% of emergency responses are rescues involving trapped persons as a result of vehicle accidents, falls from a cliff, construction site accidents, and weather-related incidents. The Department also responds to spills and releases of hazardous materials, public service and other miscellaneous requests which account for the remaining 10% of the Fire Department's incident responses. The Department maintains a fully equipped emergency response force of twelve firefighters and one chief officer on duty, at all times. The staff personnel include the Fire Chief, Deputy Chief, three Chief Officers (all have suppression and administrative duties), an Administrative Fire Captain, a Fire Marshal, a Fire Safety Inspector, an Administrative Assistant, an Ambulance Coordinator, and a part-time Fire Prevention Officer.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The City of Laguna Beach is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. We encourage you to inform Human Resources at least two business days prior to the first phase of the selection process if you have a disability that may require an accommodation. EEO/ADA.
FLSA Designation: Non-exempt
For Questions Regarding This Recruitment, Please Contact
Laguna Beach Fire Administration
Battalion Chief Lether
(949) 497-0700
Benefits for Laguna Beach Members of the Laguna Beach Firefighters Association (Local 3684)
Pay Plan: The basic pay ranges are composed of eight (8) steps, with each step varying by approximately five percent (5%).
Retirement: The City offers membership in the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS). The retirement formula is based on appointment date and membership status with CalPERS. 2.7% at 57 for PEPRA CalPERS Safety members; 3% at 55 for Classic CalPERS Safety members.
Health Coverage: The City covers the medical and dental insurance premium costs for employee-only and provides a contribution towards dependent premium costs. A medical insurance waiver program is available for employees covered by medical insurance other than the City’s medical insurance.
Vacation: Vacation leave accrues at a rate of 4.85 hours per pay period. This increases to 7.62 hours per pay period at six years of service, and to 9.47 hours per pay period at ten years of service. A cash-out option exists for accrued vacation time.
Holiday: Holiday time of one hundred thirty-two (132) hours is granted to shift personnel every fiscal year. 108 hours of the 132 hours the employee shall receive as payment.
Sick Leave: Sick leave accrues at a rate of 5.23 hours per pay period. Unused sick leave may be accumulated without limit.
Retirement Health Savings Plan: The City, on your behalf, deposits a monthly pre-tax contribution of one hundred dollars ($100) into your RHS account.
Life Insurance: The City provides a life insurance benefit in the amount of $50,000, including coverage for Accidental Death and Dismemberment and Long-term Disability.
Acting Pay: When a Firefighter is acting as an Engineer or an Engineer is acting as a Captain, the "Acting pay" shall be ten percent (10%) of the employee's current base pay. "Acting pay" for a Firefighter acting as a Captain shall be fifteen (15%) of the employee's current base pay. When a Captain is acting as a Battalion Chief, the "Acting pay", shall be ten percent (10%) of the employee's current base pay. In each case the pay is for actual hours worked, starting with the first hour worked.
Paramedic Pay: The premium for Firefighter Paramedics, Fire Paramedic Engineers, or Fire Paramedic Captains shall be equal to ten percent (10%) of the top salary step (base pay) of the Fire Engineer classification as it is adjusted from time to time.
When the first recertification is submitted the premium will increase from ten percent (10%) to twelve and one-half percent (12.5%). Upon submission of the second recertification the premium will increase from twice and one-half percent (12.5%) to fifteen percent (15%).
A bonus of two hundred dollars ($200) every two years shall also be paid upon submission of proof of successful renewal of his or her paramedic license, assuming the employee has maintained continuous paramedic status.
Additional Fire Certification Pay: Unit members may be eligible for an additional 2.5% certification pay for becoming certified as a Firefighter II, Firefighter Technician, or Wildland Technician and completing Emergency Medical Technician or Paramedic coursework.
Other Benefits: The City offers a Flexible Spending Account, Educational Reimbursement Program, Employee Assistance Program, Exceptional Performance Pay Program, and Bilingual Pay Program.
01
To be considered for this position, you must complete the Firefighter Written Exam through the National Testing Network (NTN). Have you completed or will you complete this exam and have your score submitted for the City of Laguna Beach by September 11, 2025?
- Yes
- No
This position requires that you possess one of the following: A.) Possession of a California Firefighter 1 certification OR B.) Proof of successful completion from a California State accredited Firefighter 1 Academy. Do you meet or exceed this requirement?
- Yes
- No
Do you possess a valid Driver's License?
- Yes
- No
If you answered "yes" to the above question, please indicate the class of driver's license you possess, and any endorsements you may possess (e.g., any Firefighter endorsements).
05
Please select the highest level of education you have completed.
- Less than High School
- High School Diploma or higher
- Associate
- Bachelor
- Master's or Higher
Please clearly state any Fire Service related education you have completed. If you do not have any fire service related education, please write "N/A."
07
Do you possess a current S-290 (Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior) certification, and/or any other National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) or CICCS qualifications? If "yes," you MUST attach proof of certification.
- Yes
- No
Do you possess a valid current California EMT 1 certification? If "yes" you must ensure to attach proof of certification.
- Yes
- No
Do you possess current training and certification in State Fire Training (SFT) Driver Operator 1A? If "yes," you MUST attach proof of certification.
- Yes
- No
Do you possess a valid current CPR card issued by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross? If "yes," you must ensure to attach proof of certification.
- Yes
- No
How many years of experience do you possess working for a fire service agency in a Reserve, Volunteer, Ambulance Operator, Fire Intern, or EMS based position? You must ensure this experience is described in your application.
- No Experience
- Some Experience but less than 1 year
- 1 year but less than 2
- 2 years but less than 3
- 3 years but less than 4
- 4 years but less than 5
- 5 or more years
All applicants who fail to attach the following documents to their application will not be considered. 1.) Possession of a California Firefighter 1 certification OR Proof of successful completion from a California State accredited Firefighter 1 Academy 2.) Possession of a valid current California EMT 1 certification recognized by the California Emergency Medical Services Authority 3.) Possession of a valid current CPR card issued by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross 4.) A valid Driver's License Have you attached the documents listed above to your application?
- Yes
- No
- Required Question
Salary : $100 - $200