Are you passionate about wildfire prevention? CAL FIRE is hiring temporary Forestry Aide (Defensible Space Inspector) positions across California. As a Defensible Space Inspector, you’ll help homeowners prepare for wildfire season by conducting inspections and educating the public on fire safety. This is a great opportunity to gain experience in forestry, fire prevention, and natural resource management while making a real difference in protecting communities from wildfires.
Job Responsibilities
As a Defensible Space Inspector, your primary duties will include:
- Conducting defensible space inspections to ensure properties meet fire safety regulations.
- Educating homeowners on wildfire prevention and best practices.
- Working closely with CAL FIRE personnel and the community to promote fire safety awareness.
- Reporting inspection findings and assisting with compliance measures.
This role is an excellent way to gain hands-on experience in fire prevention and natural resource management.
Minimum Qualifications
To qualify for this position, you must meet one of the following requirements:
Option 1: Educational Qualification
- Completion of at least 12 semester units or 18 quarter units from an accredited college/university in forestry, fire science, natural resource management, conservation, or a related field.
Option 2: Work Experience Qualification
- At least three (3) months of experience working with public or private agencies in one of the following areas:
- Forestry
- Fire prevention or suppression
- Natural resource management
- Other related fields
If you meet either of these criteria, you are encouraged to apply!
How to Apply
You can submit your application in one of the following ways:
- Electronically through the official CAL FIRE job portal.
- By Mail to the Southern Region Headquarters:
1234 East Shaw Ave., Fresno, CA 93710 - In-Person at the same address above.
Important Note: Applications are not accepted at Sacramento Headquarters, Unit Offices, or Conservation Camps.
Application Deadline: Generally November 30th each year. Applications received after this deadline may not be considered for the upcoming fire season.
Special Requirements
Before starting work, selected candidates must:
Possess a valid California Driver’s License
Pass a medical clearance test
These requirements ensure that inspectors are physically fit and ready to perform their duties in the field.
Why Join CAL FIRE?
Working as a Defensible Space Inspector offers valuable experience in fire prevention and forestry while actively contributing to wildfire safety efforts. This role can also be a stepping stone to future careers in fire services, forestry, and environmental conservation.
If you’re passionate about protecting California communities from wildfires, this is your chance to make a difference!
Source: https://www.fire.ca.gov/join-calfire/defensible-space-inspector
FAQ
What does a Defensible Space Inspector do?
A Defensible Space Inspector conducts property inspections to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations and educates homeowners on wildfire prevention.
What are the qualifications for this position?
Applicants must have either 12 semester units in forestry-related studies OR 3 months of relevant work experience in fire prevention, forestry, or resource management.
Where can I submit my application?
Applications can be submitted electronically, by mail, or in person at the Southern Region Headquarters in Fresno, CA. Sacramento Headquarters and Unit Offices do not accept applications.
Is a California Driver’s License required?
Yes, a valid California Driver’s License and medical clearance are required for this position.
What is the deadline to apply?
The application deadline is generally November 30th each year. Late applications may not be considered for the upcoming fire season.
