Deputy State Fire Marshal

This position is with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), the state’s fire department and resource management agency. CAL FIRE employs nearly 12,000 permanent and seasonal staff, offering well-paying careers, opportunities for advancement, and a collaborative team environment.

About the role

The Deputy State Fire Marshal performs field work requiring above-average physical ability, endurance, and superior condition. Duties may include extraordinarily strenuous activities during emergencies under adverse environmental conditions, such as running, walking, climbing, jumping, twisting, bending, and lifting over 25 pounds. The pace of work is typically set by emergency situations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field work in emergency and non-emergency settings.
• Perform physically demanding tasks, including climbing, lifting, and operating in challenging environments.
• Wear respiratory protection equipment, including self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), as required.
• Adhere to safety protocols and regulations, including annual medical clearance for respiratory protection equipment use.

Requirements

• Valid California Driver’s License (CDL) with required endorsements and restrictions disclosed.
• Successful completion of a Background Investigation prior to hiring.
• Respiratory Protection Program (RPP) Clearance, including a comprehensive medical evaluation (physical examination, vision, hearing, spirometry, and exercise treadmill tests).
• Eligibility for consideration through one of the following:
  • Passed the examination for this classification and on a current certified list.
  • Eligible for lateral transfer or reinstatement.
  • List or LEAP eligibility, or in the process of obtaining list eligibility.
  • SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (priority given to these candidates).
• Possession of minimum qualifications as outlined in the Deputy State Fire Marshal classification specifications.
• Submission of unofficial transcripts/diploma if meeting minimum qualifications through education.

Pay

• Salary Range A: $6,965.00 - $8,585.00 per month.
• Salary Range B: $7,298.00 - $9,858.00 per month.
• New state employees are hired at the minimum salary of the classification or the minimum of the alternate range, when applicable.

Effective July 1, 2025, state employees are subject to temporary salary reductions (2% to 4.62%) in exchange for Personal Leave Program (PLP) hours. More information on the 2025 Personal Leave Program.

Schedule

• Permanent, full-time position.
• Hybrid work arrangement (combination of in-office and remote work).

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical evaluation and clearance for respiratory protection equipment.
• Career advancement opportunities within CAL FIRE.
• Collaborative and team-oriented work environment.

Work Location: Sacramento County

Final Filing Date: 9/16/2026