What are the responsibilities and job description for the FIRE FIGHTER position at Department of State Hospitals?
As a permanent, full-time employee, under the general supervision of the Fire Chief, the Firefighter performs the full range of firefighting duties to include, emergency medical response, rescue, fire prevention, fire suppression, and other life-safety duties to protect life, property, and the environment. The position supports regulatory compliance, emergency preparedness, and safety education consistent with NFPA standards, OSHA regulations, the California Fire Code, and the Joint Commission Environment of Care requirements. As a member of a crew, receives training in wildland, rural, and structural fire suppression methods and techniques; suppresses fire; operates firefighting equipment and apparatus; mitigates hazardous environments; provides medical aid and transport; assists in building, grounds, and equipment maintenance and repair; performs general station housekeeping and kitchen duties. Performs work outside with potential exposure to environmental elements (e.g., extreme weather, poison oak, wild animals, etc.).
Essential Functions
• Conduct fire prevention and life-safety inspections of hospital grounds and buildings in accordance with NFPA 101, CCR Title 19, and Title 24.
• Inspect and assist with testing and maintenance of fire suppression and alarm systems; documents and reports deficiencies.
• Respond to emergency and non-emergency incidents including fires, medical calls, rescues, hazardous materials, and other disasters.
• Perform fire suppression, ventilation, rescue, salvage, and overhaul operations per NFPA 1001, 1500, and 1710.
• Provide Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) level care and medical transportation in compliance with Napa County EMSA polices.
• Operate emergency vehicles and fire apparatus safely and efficiently.
• Maintain all required certifications and participate in training as outlined in the DSH Fire Service Training Plan.
• Maintain professional conduct and cooperative relationships with staff, patients, and public-safety partners.
• Serve as Lead Firefighter when delegated in the absence of a supervisor.
• Perform other related duties as required by the Fire Chief.
Knowledge and Abilities
• Knowledge of modern principles and techniques of fire prevention, suppression, rescue and emergency medical services.
• Ability to perform heavy physical labor under hazardous conditions; follow oral and written instructions; analyze situations accurately and take effective action.
• Proficient in report writing, Microsoft Office, and radio/communication systems.
• Working knowledge of SEMS/NIMS and facility emergency preparedness plans.
To be eligibile for this position your are required to pass the Fire Fighter I exam, please click: CalCareers.
If you already have list eligibility for this classification, you do not need to retake the examination, except when your list eligibility expires. For questions regarding the examination process please contact the HR representative below. Per CCR 249.3 this job control may be used to fill subsequent vacancies.
To ensure that your application will be considered for this recruitment the following items are required:
• You must complete the STD 678 Employment Application in its entirety and include, “Fire Fighter” – JC-506337” in the “Job Title(s)” section of the application.
• Duties performed and supervisor’s name and contact information must be completed on the STD 678 - Incomplete applications will not be considered.
• Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of information provided on the STD 678.
• State Fire Training (SFT) Fire Fighter I (FFI) Certification
• Valid Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic certificate OR EMT Paramedic license (CCR Title 22)
Please note that the application submission cutoff date is set for the 31st or last day of every month. The first cutoff date for this Job Control is February 28, 2026 Applications received after this date will be processed during the next scheduled cutoff date.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.
Physical and Working Conditions
Must meet NFPA 1582 medical standards. Duties require frequent lifting and carrying over 100 lbs, climbing, kneeling, and working in confined or hazardous environments. Exposure to fire, smoke, extreme temperatures, chemicals, and biohazards. Must wear protective equipment, including SCBA and ballistic vest. Regular attendance, 24-hour shifts, overtime, and callback are required.
Disaster Service Worker
As a condition of employment, all State employees are designated Disaster Service Workers under Government Code §§3100–3109 and may be required to return to work during emergencies.