Final Filing Date: 3/20/2025.

Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) must be received or postmarked by the filing date indicated above. Applications postmarked, personally delivered or received via interoffice mail after the filing date will not be accepted.

Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.

If using the United States Postal Service (USPS) for delivery, there is no guarantee that your application will be postmarked and arrive by the final filing date. If your application does not have a postmark and arrives after the final filing date, your application may not be accepted into the examination. Therefore, to ensure timely delivery of your application, it is recommended that you use either parcel service, or certified mail. Using one of these options will provide proof the application was sent prior to the final filing date.

The information below will help you determine which classification(s) is(are) appropriate for you. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications as stated on this bulletin to compete in this examination.

Open and Open, Non-Promotional Examination(s):

• ARSON AND BOMB INVESTIGATOR - Open

All applicants must meet the education and/or experience requirements by the final filing date of March 20, 2025, unless otherwise noted.

• Once you have participated in this examination, you may not test again for six (6) months.
• Applicants who have not passed probation in this classification are encouraged to apply.

Submit an Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) to apply for this examination.

Electronic applications can be submitted through your account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov.

You may apply by mail to:

• Department of Forestry & Fire Protection (CAL FIRE)
  Examination Unit
  710 Riverpoint Ct.
  West Sacramento, CA 95605
  

Indicate the Examination Code and Classification(s) on your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678).

You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:

• Department of Forestry & Fire Protection (CAL FIRE)
  Examination Unit
  710 Riverpoint Ct.
  West Sacramento, CA 95605
  8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Indicate the Examination Code and Classification(s) on your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678). All applicants must provide proof of identification. Accepted forms of identification are: 1) a photo identification card or 2) two forms of signed identification.

To apply for this examination, please complete and submit the following: 

1.) An Examination/Employment Application (STD.678) is REQUIRED and must be submitted. 

2.) A Training and Experience (T&E) Narrative document is also REQUIRED and must be submitted.

3.) All applicants must include "from" and "to" employment dates (month/day/year), time base, and applicable civil service class titles on their STD 678. Applications received without this information may be rejected.


APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED VIA EMAIL WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

The following items must be submitted with your Examination/Employment Application form. Failure to submit these items may result in rejection of your application.

• Other - Training & Experience Narrative

If you require assistance or alternative testing arrangements due to a disability, indicate on your application that you need reasonable accommodation. You will be contacted by a representative of the testing department to make the necessary arrangements. If you have not been contacted by the time you receive notification of testing, please contact the testing department listed in the Contact section of this bulletin.

If you are unable to submit your application or complete the test due to a disability, please contact the testing department listed in the Contact section of this bulletin.

All applicants must meet the education and/or experience requirements as stated on this exam bulletin to be accepted to the examination.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Either I

One year of experience in the Office of the State Fire Marshal performing the duties of an Arson and Bomb Investigator Assistant, Range B.

Or II

Three years of experience in a public agency performing fire prevention work, two years of which shall have been in investigation of fire for cause and origin. Experience gained at the Office of the State Fire Marshal must be applied under Pattern I.

Or III

Three years of law enforcement experience in a police department, sheriff’s office, or district attorney’s office, two years of which shall have been in the investigation of fires and explosions suspected of being of incendiary origin.

This examination consists of the following component(s):

Components that are due with your application will be scored and will count toward your final examination result. Failure to submit these items may result in disqualification or elimination from the examination.

A final score of 70% must be attained to be placed on the eligible list.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE (T&E) NARRATIVE – WEIGHTED 100%

In this type of exam, the T&E Narrative document IS THE EXAMINATION. 

The T&E Narrative is a written document that responds to the questions listed below.

An evaluation of the Narrative documents will be conducted by a rating panel consisting of CAL FIRE subject matter experts (SMEs) (in April/May 2025). The rating panel will compare each candidates' Narrative responses against standardized, pre-determined rating criteria. The examination questions below were derived from the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) listed in this bulletin.

When preparing your T&E Narrative document please respond to the following four (4) examination questions:

1. You have been assigned a criminal investigation involving a fire with a fatality. Please describe in detail at least 10 of your actions involving this investigative assignment.

2. You have been asked to testify in a court case as an expert witness concerning an explosion involving fireworks. Describe in detail at least seven actions you would take to prepare for this testimony.

3. You are dispatched to an explosion on state property. Describe in detail at least 10 of your actions while responding and/or on scene.

4. As an investigator, list at least six considerations while conducting interviews and/or interrogations.

In addition to responding to the questions above, your T&E Narrative document MUST follow the instructions listed below. Failure to follow these instructions may result in disqualification from the testing process:

• Please use Arial font, size no smaller than 12

• Limit your responses to no more than a total of four (4) pages (Only the first four pages will be scored)

• Your document MUST be typewritten (NO handwritten narratives)

• Please clearly label the number that corresponds to the question to which you are responding.

• You may include multiple responses on a single page.

• Please place your name on each page of your narrative.

APPLICATIONS RECEIVED WITHOUT A NARRATIVE DOCUMENT WILL BE DISQUALIFIED. 

In addition to evaluating the applicant's relative knowledge, skill and ability as demonstrated by quality and breadth of education/experience, emphasis in each test component will be on measuring competitively, relative to job demands, each applicant's:

Knowledge of:

1. The ignition process and sources (e.g., electrical sparks, static electricity, friction) to determine fire origin and cause.
2. Fire development and spread to assist in locating origin and cause of the fire.
3. Techniques for documenting fire and explosion scenes for investigative purposes.
4. basic computer software programs (e.g., Word, PowerPoint, Excel) to electronically compile and analyze data to produce reports.
5. Modern English (e.g., spelling, grammar, punctuation, sentence structure) to ensure that written materials are complete and concise.
6. Math functions (e.g., arithmetic, statistics, formulas) in order to make calculations.
7. Fire origin and how it is used to determine the cause of fires at the Certified Fire Investigator level.
8. Burn pattern interpretation in order to determine origin and possible cause of fires at the Certified Fire Investigator level.
9. Peace officer standards (e.g., laws of arrest, search and seizure, use of force) to ensure due process of law.
10. State laws and regulations relating to fire and arson to implement effective operations.
11. Types of explosives (e.g., commercial, homemade, military) to identify potential hazards.
12. Types of explosions (e.g., deflagration, detonation, combustion, chemical, mechanical) to recognize them when determining the cause of an explosion.
13. Improvised explosives (e.g., bottle bombs, pipe bombs) to understand their functionalities at an advanced level.
14. The collection and preservation of evidence to testify in court.
15. Fire service and law enforcement terminology in order to communicate with supervisors, coworkers, and the public.
16. Active listening techniques to communicate with others.
17. The characteristics of explosives (e.g., deterioration, packaging, state) to understand common circumstances involving explosions.
18. Arson motives (e.g., fraud, profit, terrorism) to use as investigative tools.
19. Bombing motives (e.g., vandalism, terrorism, civil disorder) to use as investigative tools.
20. Post-blast investigation techniques (e.g., searches, collection, reconstruction) to locate evidence and identify possible suspects.
21. Equipment used in fire and explosion investigations to ensure safe operations at the journeyman level.
22. Techniques used in fire and explosion investigations to ensure safe operations at the journeyman level.
23. The applications of search and seizure laws (e.g., Fourth and Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution) to perform legal searches and seizures.
24. Legal grounds for issuance of a search warrant or subpoena to participate in the legal process.
25. How scientific methods and principles are applied in the investigative process.
26. Health and safety hazards encountered during the performance of duties to mitigate personal safety risk.
27. Personal protective equipment (e.g., bomb suit, breathing apparatus, turnouts) used to enhance personal safety.
28. Customer service techniques for tactful communications with the public and stakeholders.
29. Relevant equipment (e.g., imaging systems, disrupters, digital cameras) to identify risk, mitigate threats, and collect evidence.
30. Department policies, procedures, and strategies to implement security operations for the protection of life, property, and environment.
31. Federal and State laws governing possession and use of explosives and destructive devices to determine legality of their possession and use.
32. Oral communication techniques to give status updates to management, the public, and the media in concise and accurate language.
33. Criminal investigation techniques (e.g., forensic, evidence collection, suspect interrogation) to assist the criminal investigation.
34. Federal and State laws, and local ordinances that apply to conducting fire and explosion investigations.
35. The stimuli capable of initiating explosives (e.g., friction, impact, shock, static) to prevent accidental injury or death.
36. The construction and mechanics of incendiary/explosive devices (e.g., commercial, homemade, military) to understand the potential for damage at the Hazardous Device Technician level.
37. Different effects of explosions (e.g., blast pressure, fragmentation, incendiary thermal) to ensure safety.
38. Destructive devices as defined in Federal and State law to understand the danger involved and ensure safety.
39. Basic court procedures to provide testimony (e.g., expert witness, hearsay, admissible evidence).
40. Types of explosives (e.g., commercial, homemade, military) to identify potential hazards at the Certified Explosive Specialist level.
41. Render Safe Procedures (e.g., identification, mitigation, documentation) to protect life, property, and environment.
42. Administrative investigation procedures (e.g., Firefighters Bill of Rights, Peace Officers Bill of Rights, citizen complaints) to ensure due process of law.
43. Department organizational hierarchy (e.g., span of control, Incident Command System, National Incident Management System) to operate within the chain of command.
44. Complex case management for report writing.
45. The California Law Enforcement Mutual Aid System (e.g., levels, procedures, individual roles) used to restore order during statewide emergencies.
46. The Department policies and procedures pertaining to law enforcement officers to mitigate and reduce risk and liability of the officers and the Department.
47. Department’s safety procedures and programs (e.g., Injury and Illness Prevention Program, Violence in the Workplace, Workers’ Compensation Program, California Occupational Safety Health Administration [CAL/OSHA]) to achieve workplace safety.
48. Training and certification processes, and procedures (e.g., Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission, Office of the State Fire Marshal) to acquire all necessary certifications (e.g., basic Peace Officer Standards and training certificate).
49. Peace Officers Bill of Rights to ensure compliance with State laws and Department policies.
50. Contemporary instructional methodology and techniques (e.g., visual, auditory, tactile, kinesthetic) to provide training to Federal, State, and local agencies.

Skill to:

1. Don and work in personal protective equipment (e.g., bomb suit, hazardous materials suit, mask, glove, eye protection) to safely operate in high stress situations.
2. Operate an assigned motor vehicle (e.g., bomb van, bomb truck, sport utilities) through adverse conditions in accordance with applicable Federal and State laws, regulations, and Department policies.
3. Speak to others in English to effectively convey and/or gather information (e.g., field interviews, lawful order, interrogation).
4. Read and comprehend the English language (e.g., Material Safety Data Sheet, technical manuals, warning placards) to interpret information.
5. Produce written correspondence (e.g., investigative report, emails, information bulletin) in English to convey information.
6. Use communication equipment (e.g., mobile phones, radios, computers) to exchange information and data in emergency and non-emergency situations.
7. Think critically to analyze, review, and assess technical and administrative data to develop reports, briefings, and other documents.
8. Adapt to stay current with emergent technology (e.g., computers, imaging systems, spectrometry) and changing standards.
9. Tactfully and diplomatically arbitrate conflicts between individuals with different viewpoints to de-escalate a situation.
10. Multitask to manage emergency and non-emergency situations.
11. Use proper body mechanics (e.g., bending, lifting, twisting) under the Injury and Illness Prevention Program to prevent personal injury.
12. Utilize office equipment and systems (e.g., filing, photocopying, fax) to perform administrative activities.
13. Administer medical care and Basic Life Support to preserve life in accordance with training and certification.
14. Utilize computer software (e.g. Microsoft Office Suite, Bomb Arson Tracking System, Accurint) to create graphic visual reports
15. Utilize Global Positioning Systems, maps, and compasses to locate, map, and travel between incidents.
16. Utilize hand and power tools (e.g., sawzall, shovel, flashlight) to safely clear the scene and gather evidence.
17. Observe the environment (e.g., safety hazards, unsafe structures, threats) to recognize deficiencies and maintain situational awareness.

Ability to:

1. Perform arduous physical activity in all conditions and terrain to prevent injury.
2. Complete work commitments timely and efficiently to meet operational needs.
3. Prepare written documents (e.g., affidavits, search warrants, subpoenas) to participate in the legal process.
4. Manage time and delegate tasks (e.g., investigative planning, resource allocation) to meet operational needs and complete the investigation or assignment.
5. Gather and analyze facts to provide investigative support.  
6. Use correct grammar, spelling, syntax, document structure, and formatting to communicate a message in writing.
7. Comprehend and orally communicate in English to exchange ideas and accomplish daily tasks.
8. Work in emergency situations to safely accomplish the program mission.
9. Work long hours when working an investigation and surveillance to accomplish the program mission.
10. Travel long distances in emergency and non-emergency circumstances to accomplish the responsibilities of the Department.
11. Work in a team environment for problem solving and decision making to allocate resources and division of labor.
12. Communicate effectively with employees and management to exchange information and accomplish daily activities.
13. Follow oral and written directions to ensure safety and meet operational needs.
14. Interview witnesses to obtain information pertaining to an investigation.
15. Take direction from a supervisor in emergency and non-emergency situations to safely conduct operations.
16. Implement the applicable safety practices, policies, and procedures for workplace safety and protection.
17. Refer media request to communications staff and await further direction to ensure the protection of confidential information while providing accurate accounts.
18. Research Federal, State, and local laws, rules, regulations, and policies relating to the Office of the State Fire Marshal to meet mission objectives.
19. Organize and conduct fire and explosion investigations to meet the operational needs of the Arson and Bomb Unit.
20. Collect and preserve evidence (e.g., trace, fire debris, signed documents) for investigative purposes.
21. Make physical arrests using proper arrest and control tactics to safely apprehend the suspect.
22. Conduct complex investigations into criminal and non-criminal acts to maintain confidentiality.
23. Work independently as a fire investigator to develop an unbiased analysis and reach an impartial conclusion.
24. Work independently, make decisions, and take appropriate action with little or no direction in emergency and non-emergency situations to safely conduct operations.
25. Read and write legal and technical language to communicate laws, rules, regulations, and policies relating to the Office of the State Fire Marshal.
26. Select the appropriate tool or tools (e.g., sawzall, shovel, robot, flashlight) to perform a specific job task.
27. Operate electronic devices (e.g., cell phone, global positioning system, digital cameras, laptops) to obtain information and perform job assignments.
28. Manage time and delegate tasks (e.g., investigative planning, resource allocation) to meet operational needs and complete the investigation or assignment.
29. Interrogate suspects to obtain information pertaining to an investigation.
30. Accurately document fire and bomb scenes to complete required reports.
31. Implement and comply with Department policies and procedures (e.g., 9400 Handbook, Equal Employment Opportunity).
32. Establish and maintain the confidence and trust of stakeholders and cooperators in the course of the work to increase communication and resource utilization.
33. Identify complex problems to analyze the situation, establish priorities, develop a plan, and implement a solution.
34. Organize and conduct meetings with various entities (e.g., allied agencies, task forces, professional organizations) to exchange information and coordinate efforts.
35. Function as a lead investigator to ensure safety and accountability of the investigative team.
36. Assess technical and administrative data (e.g., Bomb Arson Tracking System, California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System, intelligence reports) to develop reports, briefings, and other documents.
37. Qualify as an expert witness at trials and hearings relating to fire and/or explosion investigations to participate in court.
38. Develop curriculum and deliver fire and explosives training courses to local, State, and Federal Agencies to protect life, property, and environment.
39. Communicate the Division's mission and goals to stakeholders to professionally represent the State Fire Marshal and the Department.
40. Obtain and maintain required certifications (e.g., Hazardous Devices Technician certification, Certified Explosive Specialist, Basic Peace Officer Standard Training certification) to comply with Department policies and procedures.

A Departmental Open eligible list for the ARSON AND BOMB INVESTIGATOR Classification will be established for:

• Department of Forestry & Fire Protection

The names of successful competitors will be merged onto the eligible list(s) in order of final score regardless of test date. Eligibility expires 12 months after it is established. Applicants must then retake the examination to reestablish eligibility.

Veterans' Preference will be granted for this examination. Veterans' Preference is an assistance program for veterans, veteran widows and widowers, and spouses of 100% disabled veterans who seek employment with the state. Veterans' Preference is also extended to currently serving military members nearing their retirement or separation date.

You are not eligible for Veteran's Preference if you are:

• A veteran who has been dishonorably discharged or released.
• A veteran, widow or widower of a veteran, or spouse of a 100 percent disabled veteran who currently has permanent civil service status. (Permanent civil service status is the status of an employee who is lawfully retained in his/her position after completion of the applicable probationary period. This does not include limited term).

Veterans' Preference is codified in Government Code Sections 18973 – 18979.

Veteran status is verified by the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR). Directions to apply for Veterans' Preference are on the Veterans' Preference Application (Std. Form 1093), which is available at www.CalCareers.ca.gov, and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Career Credits are not granted for examination(s) administered on an Open basis or a Promotional basis.

• Department of Forestry & Fire Protection

Questions regarding this examination should be directed to:

CAL FIRE Reasonable Accommodation Coordinator
710 Riverpoint Ct.
West Sacramento, CA 95605
Phone: (916) 894-9570 ext. Option 3
ReasonableAccommodations@fire.ca.gov

California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice). TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.

Examination and/or Employment Application (STD 678) forms are available at the California Department of Human Resources, local offices of the Employment Development Department, and through your CalCareer Account (www.CalCareers.ca.gov).

If you meet the requirements stated on this examination bulletin, you may take this examination, which is competitive. Possession of the entrance requirements does not assure a place on the eligible list. Your performance in the examination described in this bulletin will be rated against a predetermined job-related rating, and all applicants who pass will be ranked according to their scores.

Department of Forestry & Fire Protection reserves the right to revise the examination plan to better meet the needs of the service, if the circumstances under which this examination was planned change. Such revision will be in accordance with civil service laws and rules and all applicants will be notified.

General Qualifications: Applicants must possess essential personal qualifications including integrity, initiative, dependability, good judgment, the ability to work cooperatively with others, and a state of health consistent with the ability to perform the assigned duties of the class. A medical examination may be required. In open examinations, investigation may be made of employment records and personal history and fingerprinting may be required.

Eligible Lists: Eligible lists established by competitive examination, regardless of date, must be used in the following order: 1) sub-divisional promotional, 2) departmental promotional, 3) multi-departmental promotional, 4) service-wide promotional, 5) departmental open, 6) open. When there are two lists of the same kind, the older must be used first. Eligible lists will expire in one to four years unless otherwise stated on the bulletin.

High School Equivalence: Equivalence to completion of the 12th grade may be demonstrated in any one of the following ways: 1) passing the General Education Development (GED) Test; 2) completion of 12 semester units of college-level work; 3) certification from the State Department of Education, a local school board, or high school authorities that the competitor is considered to have education equivalent to graduation from high school; or 4) for clerical and accounting classes, substitution of business college work in place of high school on a year-for-year basis.

Accepted applicants must provide proof of identification at each in-person test session. Acceptable identification consists of a photo identification card or two forms of signed identification.