Exam Bulletin - Fire Captain (1095) Non-Paramedic / Paramedic

Department of Forestry & Fire Protection

Exam Code: EX-4433

Examination Plans Included:

  • FIRE CAPTAIN - Open

Final Filing Date: Applications are accepted on a continuous basis.

Classification Details

FIRE CAPTAIN: $5,789.00 - $7,506.00 (A) per Month
FIRE CAPTAIN: $6,354.00 - $8,276.00 (B) per Month
FIRE CAPTAIN: $6,199.00 - $8,033.00 (C) per Month

View the FIRE CAPTAIN classification specification.

Application Instructions

Applications are accepted on a continuous basis.

Interested applicants must click "Apply Now" in the top right corner of this bulletin and follow the prompts provided by the CalCareers system in order to apply for and take this exam. In most circumstances, candidates' results will populate in their CalCareers profile within 24 hours of completing the exam. 


Extended Duty Week Compensation (EDWC)


(Range A and B - Non-Paramedic)

This classification is eligible for the following pay:

 

$5789 - $7506 Range A Base Salary (paid every month)

$6354 - $8276 Range B Base Salary (paid every month)

$1968 - $2551 Range A Extended Duty Week Compensation (paid every 4 weeks)

$2160 - $2813 Range B Extended Duty Week Compensation (paid every 4 weeks)

$95,052 – $123,235 Annual Compensation Range A

$104,328 – $135,881 Annual Compensation Range B 

 

(Range C - Paramedic)

This classification is eligible for the following pay:

 

$6199 - $8033 Base Salary (paid every month)

$2192 - $2900 Extended Duty Week Compensation (paid every 4 weeks)

$250 - $6000 Paramedic Bonus (paid every November; amount based on months worked)

$105,884 – $140,096 Annual Compensation

 

In addition to the above pay items, employees are eligible for medical benefits (health, dental, vision) and may be eligible for other pay differentials.

Who Should Apply:

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):

  • FIRE CAPTAIN - Open

*Effective July 31, 2025, the Fire Captain (1095) and Fire Captain - Paramedic (1757) classifications have merged. Candidates interested in a Fire Captain  or Fire Captain - Paramedic position, MUST successfully pass this examination to be placed on the eligibility list. Successful candidates are then encouraged to apply for open positions (paramedic and/or non-paramedic). Visit our Join CAL FIRE webpage for more information. 

For all Classifications, once you have participated in any of the following examinations, you may not recompete for 11 months:

Exam Code(s):

    4433

For FIRE CAPTAIN, once you have participated in any of the following examinations, you may not recompete for 11 months:

Exam Code(s):

  • EX-04433

How 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.

*Applications for this examination will only be accepted via electronic submission through CalCareers. Applications sent via mail, email, or delivered in-person will NOT be accepted. 

Special Testing Arrangements:

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.

Minimum Qualifications

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

00101095 - FIRE CAPTAIN

Possession of a valid Class A, Class B, or Class C driver's license, with any applicable endorsements, issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles, or applicable agency. AND

 

For paramedic positions, possession of a current California Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic (EMT-P) license or National Registry EMT-P license. (Applicants currently enrolled in a paramedic training program must be within six months of completing their training by the date of the exam to be eligible to apply for a position.) Paramedic applicants must obtain a California EMT-P license prior to a job offer or reassignment. AND

 

Experience:

 

Either I

 

Thirty-six months of full-time experience in the California state service performing the duties of a Fire Apparatus Engineer or Fire Apparatus Engineer (Paramedic) and successful completion of the corresponding California Fire Fighter Joint Apprenticeship Committee Program. (Applicants who are within six months of satisfying the experience requirement will be admitted to the examination but must successfully complete the apprenticeship program before they can be eligible for a job offer or receive SubJac certification of journey level status.)

Applicants who gained employment with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) by Board Resolution may compete if they have thirty-six months of full-time experience equivalent to Fire Apparatus Engineer or Fire Apparatus Engineer (Paramedic) or higher but must successfully complete the apprenticeship program before a job offer or receive SubJAC certification of journey level status. [Experience as a CAL FIRE Fire Apparatus 
Engineer or a Fire Apparatus Engineer (Paramedic) may be combined with equivalent experience outside of California State Service to meet this requirement.]

 

Or II

 

Twenty-four months of experience as a full-time paid Company Officer leading an engine company (or equivalent) or hand crew, such as an Incident Command System Type I or II Crew. Qualifying experience must be at a level of responsibility equivalent to that of a CAL FIRE Fire Captain. (Applicants who are within six months of satisfying the experience requirement will be admitted to the examination but must complete the experience requirement before they can be eligible for a job offer.)

Position Description

00101095 - FIRE CAPTAIN

TYPICAL TASKS

Plans and assigns work, gives instructions, maintains discipline, and makes decisions relating to the supervision of engine companies and hand crews engaged in fighting wildland, structural, or other fires, flood control, hazardous materials incidents, emergency responses, vehicle extrication incidents, and other emergency activities; performs general facility maintenance and repair work; supervises projects related to resource management; trains a company to fight fire and operate tools; supervises and performs the construction and maintenance of fire defense improvements; inspects, supervises the use of, and performs preventive and minor maintenance on assigned equipment; transports a crew over mountainous roads; operates fire apparatus, power tools (e.g., chain saws), and heavy equipment during emergency incidents and nonemergency project work; assists in the preparation and maintenance of a fire prevention plan; conducts fire prevention education programs; installs and supervises exhibits and displays; performs dispatching of resources; performs as fire information officer; supervises the air attack base crew; serves as controller in airport operations; leads a helitack crew; conducts classroom and field training including the preparation of lesson plans and the evaluation of student performance; evaluates work of assigned employees; reads and uses maps; may assist others in performing accounting, budgeting, personnel, and material management tasks; keeps records; writes and submits reports as required; and does other related work. Performs work outside with potential exposure to environmental elements (e.g., extreme weather, poison oak).

 

In addition to the tasks listed above, when working in a paramedic position, renders emergency medical assistance at the advanced life support level; performs cardiopulmonary resuscitation and electrical defibrillation; lifts and transports injured persons; administers intravenous fluids as needed; obtains blood for laboratory analysis; interprets cardiac arrhythmias; performs pulmonary ventilation by use of airway adjuncts; administers drugs; operates voice and biomedical telemetry communication systems and equipment; assists in childbirth; drives medical rescue vehicles under emergency conditions; prepares and completes documentation

associated with patient care delivery; prepares and presents demonstrations and classes in first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation and other subjects relating to medical assistance to employees and the public.

 

In addition to the non-paramedic tasks listed above, peace officers’ duties include applying and enforcing fire prevention laws, issuing citations and undertaking investigations and reports on the cause and origin of fires; collecting and preserving evidence, making inspections and may conduct code enforcement.

SPECIAL PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Demonstrate good judgment in emergency situations; demonstrate leadership ability; be of high ethical character; foster diversity, equity, and inclusion; possess visual acuity, color vision and hearing adequate to successfully perform the job; and maintain physical strength, dexterity, and agility necessary to perform the duties of the position. Demonstrate sensitivity to the needs of injured persons and their families; possess patience, tact, resilience, alertness, and keenness of observation.


FELONY DISQUALIFICATION

Felony disqualification applies only to those positions designated as peace officers within this class. Existing law provides that persons convicted of a felony are disqualified from employment as peace officers. Such persons are not eligible to compete for, or be appointed to, positions in this class designated as peace officer.


WORK AUTHORIZATION REQUIREMENT


Existing law provides that peace officers be legally authorized to work in the United States under federal law.

BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION


Positions located at a Camp or requiring the supervision of incarcerated individuals requires a criminal records background check prior to and during employment, i.e., Live Scan, to ensure compliance with the Prison Rape Elimination Act.

All employees shall have general qualifications as described by California Code of Regulations, title 2, section 172.



Examination Information

We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, or Edge for optimal performance when accessing the application and examination. 

This is a 90-minute timed, written examination that is administered in an online format consisting of job-related multiple-choice questions.

There is no way to pause, stop, or rest the timer once you start. A stable internet connection is recommended as no additional time will be provided for internet loss, power loss, computer/browser issues, or calls out to the field while on shift. If you are unable to complete the timed examination, it is recommended you do NOT start until you are able to do so.

This examination consists of the following component(s):

Component OrderComponent TypeComponent DuePercentage of Final Score
1Online ExamContinuous100%

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

**Please note that while there is no official study guide for this examination, the test content is directly derived from the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) outlined in this bulletin and the associated classification specification. Candidates are strongly encouraged to thoroughly review these KSAs in preparation for the examination. This assessment is designed to identify candidates who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the competencies required for success in this dynamic role, first day on the job. As such, successful candidates will require a solid grasp of the subject matter.

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. Basic human anatomy for effective treatment of patients during medical emergencies.
  2. Patient triage procedures and techniques (e.g., Respirations Perfusion Mental status [RPM], Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment [START], triage tags) to initiate appropriate treatment.
  3. Patient assessment (e.g., vital signs, skin signs, level of consciousness) to effectively treat patients.
  4. Principles and practices of emergency medical procedures (e.g., cardiopulmonary resuscitation [CPR], Automated External Defibrillator [AED]) to safely respond to and render medical aid.
  5. Airway adjuncts and techniques used on patients during medical and traumatic emergencies to secure a patient airway.
  6. Techniques (e.g., positioning, movement, oxygen administration) as used on patients in respiratory distress to ensure effective treatment.
  7. Safety precautions (e.g., Personal Protective Equipment [PPE], body substance isolation, proper needle disposal) to provide protection from communicable diseases.
  8. Decontamination techniques (e.g., proper hand washing, sanitization of reusable medical equipment, biohazard disposal) used to minimize the spread of communicable diseases following an incident.
  9. The strategies and tactics (e.g., indirect, direct, combination) used to safely and effectively suppress various types of fires (e.g., vehicle, structure, wildland).
  10. Rescue, Exposure, Confinement, Extinguishment, Overhaul with Ventilation and Salvage (RECEO-VS) activities to mitigate an incident.
  11. Wildland-urban interface strategies and tactics (e.g., prep and go, bump and run) for structure defense.
  12. Rapid intervention crew and/or team tactics (e.g., large area search, breaching and breaking, softening a structure) for firefighter safety and rescue.
  13. Wildland firefighting safety rules of engagement (e.g., 10 Standard Firefighting Orders, 18 Situations That Shout Watch Out,) for safe operations.
  14. Factors affecting wildland fire behavior (e.g., fuel, weather, topography) to ensure safe and effective operations.
  15. Emergency scene safety practices (e.g., traffic, life safety hazards, apparatus placement) to ensure the safety of the public and emergency response personnel.
  16. Basic fire behavior (e.g., types, phases, characteristics) to identify the most effective extinguishing methods.
  17. Fire suppression practices and procedures for various types of fires (e.g., structural, vehicle, wildland) to safely and effectively mitigate an incident.
  18. Emergency operations (e.g., fires, rescues, hazardous materials incidents) to mitigate incidents in a safe and efficient manner.
  19. Selection, maintenance, and inspection methods for safety gear (e.g., Personal Protective Equipment [PPE], traffic vest, fire shelter) to ensure compliance with safety rules, regulations, and personal safety.
  20. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (CAL/OSHA) regulations (e.g., two in – two out, accountability, lockout – tag out) to ensure personnel safety and compliance with Federal and State law.
  21. Incident accountability techniques (e.g., safety checks, Personnel Accountability Report, accountability tags) to ensure personnel safety.
  22. Rescue and/or extrication (e.g., vehicle, building, trench) techniques to safely and effectively remove entrapped victims.
  23. Fire ground hydraulics (e.g., gallons per minute, pump operations, friction loss) to provide safe and effective fire ground operations.
  24. Fire service ladders (e.g., testing, maintenance, use) to ensure operational readiness and personnel and public safety.
  25. Fire apparatus (e.g., engine, truck, rescue) and their capabilities for appropriate utilization.
  26. Basic mechanics (e.g., automotive, small engine, household appliances) to perform general repairs to ensure proper maintenance and operational readiness.
  27. Facilities (e.g., lookout towers, communication faults, fire stations) to ensure proper maintenance and operational readiness.
  28. Fire hose types (e.g., attack, supply) to ensure appropriate use in fire suppression and other activities.
  29. Fire hose maintenance (e.g., testing, proper storage) to ensure operational readiness and personnel safety.
  30. Chainsaw operations (e.g., felling, brushing, ventilation, bucking, rescue) to ensure life safety and fire control to remain compliant with Department chainsaw policy.
  31. Various terminology (e.g., incident command system, medical, fire) to communicate effectively.
  32. Firing tools and equipment (e.g., drip torch, fusees, firing devices) used during fire activities for safe and effective fire operations.
  33. Standard response plans (e.g., medical, wildland, structure) for appropriate response to incidents.
  34. Reference materials (e.g., Incident Response Pocket Guide [IRPG], Field Operations Guide, Fireline Handbook) to ensure firefighter safety and survival.
  35. Safe food handling practices and techniques to ensure health and well-being of personnel to avoid food borne pathogens.
  36. Fire tools and equipment (e.g., chainsaw, axe, ventilation fans) to ensure proper use and maintenance.
  37. Weather observation tools and techniques (e.g., belt weather kit, digital weather devices, online weather resources) to obtain location-specific weather information.
  38. The Department's mission, vision, and value statements to carry out the day-to-day activities of the Department.
  39. The Department’s organizational structure to work effectively within the organization.
  40. Basic mechanical advantage systems (e.g., lowering, hauling, raising) for rescue operations.
  41. Specialized rescue procedures (e.g., rope rescue, water rescue, confined space) to safely and effectively rescue victims.
  42. Navigational aids (e.g., Global Positioning System [GPS], maps, compass, electronic applications) to accurately orient yourself and others to the land.
  43. The Department’s safety procedures and programs (e.g., Injury and Illness Prevention Program [IIPP], Violence in the Workplace, Workers’ Compensation Program, California Occupational Safety Health Administration [Cal/OSHA]) to achieve workplace safety.
  44. Safe work practices to provide a safe work environment for employees and the public.
  45. Injury reporting procedures (e.g., State Compensation Insurance Fund, Injury Assessment Prevention System, Procedure 8180) to comply with Federal and State procedures and safety of personnel.
  46. Tactics and techniques (e.g., observation, retardant drop, mapping) used in air operations to assist in fire suppression activities.
  47. Applicable Department policies and procedures (e.g., administrative, safety, training) for effective job performance.
  48. Training techniques (e.g., classroom, field exercise, practical) to effectively train personnel.
  49. The principles of effectively directing and training personnel in fire protection, emergencies, and conservation efforts to effectively carry out the Department's mission.
  50. Federal, State, and local regulations affecting emergency plans (e.g., operating plans, response plans, pre-plans) to ensure personnel are in compliance during emergency operations.
  51. Writing elements (e.g., spelling, grammar, sentence structure) to ensure that written materials are complete, concise, and error-free.
  52. Department forms (e.g., incident, personnel, safety) for effective job performance.
  53. Thermal imaging devices (e.g., thermal imaging camera, heat detection gun) and proper application for use in emergency and non-emergency situations.
  54. The various fire cause classifications (e.g., arson, electrical, mechanical) for statistical and investigative purposes.
  55. Personnel policies and procedures (e.g., performance management, workers compensation, Employee Assistance Program [EAP]) to ensure effective operations.
  56. Leadership principles and management practices to effectively lead subordinates.
  57. The Department’s and cooperating agencies’ communications systems (e.g., Very High Frequency [VHF], 800 MHz, Ultra High Frequency [UHF]) to allow effective communications between agencies.
  58. Fire prevention principles and practices (e.g., defensible space, school programs, weed abatement) to prevent fires and provide fire safety.
  59. Fire prevention laws and ordinances (e.g., Federal, State, local) to ensure compliance and life safety.
  60. Direct Protection Areas (e.g., Federal, State, local) to accurately and adequately manage incidents.
  61. Hazardous material storage (e.g., bulk fuel, insecticides, flammable liquids) to ensure environmental safety and compliance with Federal, State, and local laws.
  62. Helicopters and helitack equipment capabilities (e.g., rescue, suppression, crew transport) for use in air operations.
  63. Helicopter and helitack safety procedures (e.g., crash rescue, pre-flight briefing, approaching the aircraft) to ensure the safety of personnel.
  64. Fixed-wing aircraft capabilities and limitations (e.g., hazards, coverage levels, flight time) to assist with aerial firefighting suppression activities.
  65. Aircraft capabilities (e.g., fixed and rotor wing) for safe and effective air operations.
  66. Health Information Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) laws, rules, and regulations to ensure compliance and information security.
  67. Accepted command systems (e.g., Incident Command System, National Incident Management System [NIMS]) for proper incident organization and structure.
  68. Hazardous material incident operations to analyze the situation and determine the appropriate actions (e.g., isolate and deny entry, lock-out/tag-out, dike or dam the flow) to safely minimize and/or mitigate an incident.
  69. Hazardous material incident command structure (e.g., technical reference specialist, entry team leader, decontamination leader) to safely mitigate the incident.
  70. Fuel, weather, and topography as they relate to wildland fire behavior for firefighter safety.
  71. Extinguishing agents (e.g., water, foam, dry chemicals) and their appropriate application for fire suppression.
  72. Building construction (e.g., wood frame, masonry, metal frame) to determine appropriate fire suppression tactics and ensure firefighter safety.
  73. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) policies and procedures to ensure employees are protected from discrimination in the workplace.
  74. The Department’s safety programs (e.g., Injury Illness Prevention Program [IIPP], Respiratory Protection Program [RPP]) to maintain a safe and healthy workforce.
  75. The Critical Incident Stress Management system to recognize employee mental stress and health.
  76. The Critical Incident Stress Management system (e.g., debriefing, defusing) to provide for employee health and wellness.
  77. The internet to obtain information needed (e.g., vector solutions, local weather, six minutes for safety) to receive and distribute to field personnel.
  78. Computer software (e.g., mapmaking, Microsoft Office Suite) to ensure effective job performance.
  79. California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 22, Division 9 pertaining to Emergency Medical Services (EMS) for compliance with State laws.
  80. Department substance abuse policy to ensure personnel health and safety.
  81. The Department’s Behavioral Health and Wellness program (e.g., Employee Support Services [ESS], Employee Assistance Program [EAP], Peer Counseling, Critical Incident Stress Management [CISM], Substance Abuse Assistance Program [SAAP]) to encourage health and wellbeing of staff in accordance with Department policies and procedures.
  82. State and Unit fire plans to ensure appropriate response and resource allocation.
  83. The Department Intranet to access Department-specific information, policies, and forms.
  84. The Department’s progressive discipline policy to prevent, correct, and take adverse action against employees not meeting the Department’s expectations.
  85. The Firefighters Bill of Rights and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to ensure that employee rights are protected in accordance with State law.
  86. Proper evidence handling and preservation techniques as part of the investigation process to ensure compliance with state laws.
  87. Incident types and dispatch priorities (e.g., life safety vs. property) to assign resources in the appropriate sequence.
  88. Necessary qualifications (e.g., EMS certification, Driver’s License) to enhance knowledge and skills in accordance with Federal and State regulations.
  89. Various Department finance policies (e.g., accounting, budgeting, purchasing) to maintain fiscal accountability.
  90. Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) standards to ensure proper patient care and document trending of patient care.
  91. Patient assessment (e.g., vital signs, skin signs, level of consciousness) to effectively treat patients at the Basic Life Support (BLS) level.
  92. Pharmacology (e.g., uses, dosage, administration), as appropriate, for patient care and scope of practice.
  93. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) standards within your scope of practice to ensure proper patient care.

 

Skill to:

 

  1. Operate bag valve mask to treat individuals having difficulty breathing and in respiratory failure.
  2. Use extrication tools and equipment (e.g., hydraulic tools, pneumatic tools, stabilizing devices) to effect rescue of entrapped victims.
  3. Perform low or high-angle rescues (e.g., negotiate cliffs, steep terrain, buildings) in order to bring lost or injured victims to safety.
  4. Perform water rescue (e.g., dynamic, static) to assist persons who have fallen in or are stranded by water.
  5. Operate Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) equipment for effective operation and use.
  6. Perform arduous physical activity (e.g., running, hiking, climbing) while carrying equipment in all conditions and terrain for effective job performance.
  7. Operate medical devices (e.g., defibrillators, airway adjunct, splints) to render medical aid.
  8. Operate firefighting equipment (e.g., hoses, extinguishers, ladders) for safe and effective use during fire suppression and training.
  9. Operate (e.g., carry, maneuver, raise) various types of ladders for safe and effective operation and performance.
  10. Use proper lifting mechanics to prevent personal injury.
  11. Don infectious control Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (e.g., mask, gloves, eye protection) to provide for personnel safety.
  12. Don appropriate fire & safety gear (e.g., Nomex, turnouts, vests) to provide for firefighter safety.
  13. Manipulate various tools (e.g., gas, electric, manual) for safe and effective use.
  14. Construct a fire line using tools (e.g., power, hand, firing devices) to limit fire spread in various fuel types and conditions.
  15. Use communication equipment (e.g., radio, telephone, Mobile Data Computer) for effective communication in emergency and non-emergency situations.
  16. Use navigation tools (e.g., Global Positioning System [GPS], maps, compass) for assistance in navigation and mapmaking.
  17. Produce written correspondence (e.g., email, letters, forms) to effectively convey information.
  18. Use appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to provide personal safety.
  19. Use hand tools, power tools, and specialized equipment in a safe and effective manner to mitigate emergency and non-emergency situations.
  20. Utilize, read, and interpret documents (e.g., road maps, manuals, policies and procedures) to perform daily duties.
  21. Read and effectively interpret small-scale maps and information from a computer screen to determine locations and provide directions.
  22. Prioritize tasks during emergency and non-emergency situations to effectively complete duties.
  23. Troubleshoot equipment failure to maintain operational readiness.
  24. Lead and/or be part of a team for effective job performance.
  25. Effectively determine patient transport destinations according to injuries and/or illnesses for proper care.
  26. Effectively prepare and administer medication based on scope of practice at State and local levels for effective patient care.
  27. Render basic/advanced medical aid (e.g., Cardiovascular Pulmonary Resuscitation [CPR], oxygen administration) to stabilize patients.
  28. Perform and adhere to the State and Local Emergency Medical Services (EMS) scope of practice (e.g., intubation, vascular access, medication administration, bleeding control) to maintain required certification.

 

Ability to:

 

  1. Assess the patient and provide the appropriate level of care during medical emergencies.
  2. Administer Cardiovascular Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and/or standard first aid in medical emergencies.
  3. Lead a fire suppression crew during emergency incidents and work projects to complete the Department’s mission.
  4. Prioritize, schedule, and delegate assignments in order to accomplish daily duties and activities.
  5. Manage time effectively, multi-task, and prioritize assignments in order to meet objectives.
  6. Safely use and maintain firefighting tools and equipment (e.g., chainsaw, axe, ventilation fans) to ensure operational readiness.
  7. Check vital signs of patient to determine whether circulation and respiration are functional and adequate.
  8. Assign, direct, track, and evaluate operational resources for appropriate use and their effectiveness.
  9. Use mobile communication devices (e.g., cell phones, two-way radios, Mobile Data Computers) for effective communication.  
  10. Solve mathematical problems (e.g., arithmetic, hydraulic calculations) to effectively complete tasks.
  11. Effectively communicate both verbally and in writing to convey information to a variety of audiences.
  12. Safely coordinate operations with air and ground resources to maximize effective use.
  13. Manage emergency incidents to comply with law, policy, various agency agreements, and established procedures.
  14. Prepare and maintain clear and concise reports (e.g., fire, finance, medical) to meet Department standards.
  15. Locate and determine the cause and origin to accurately investigate fires.
  16. Recognize life safety hazards and make proper decisions to mitigate emergencies.
  17. Recognize the characteristics of smoke (e.g., volume, velocity, density, color) to ensure firefighter safety.
  18. Recognize sensitive situations (e.g., crime scene, fatality accident) to maintain confidentiality.
  19. Interpret applicable codes, laws, rules and regulations (e.g., Public Resource Code, Health and Safety Code, Uniform Fire Code) to ensure appropriate application in all administrative and firefighter activities.
  20. Read and interpret documents (e.g., maps, manuals, policies and procedures) to communicate effectively.
  21. Use various firing tools and devices to accomplish firing operations and provide safe work practices.
  22. Operate radios, telephones and different types of computer equipment to communicate effectively.
  23. Operate mobile equipment (e.g., apparatus, engines, utility vehicles) to maintain operational readiness.
  24. Think clearly and remain in control during stressful circumstances and emergency operations to effectively mitigate an incident.
  25. Effectively plan and mitigate a wide variety of emergency or non-emergency situations to achieve the Department’s mission, vision, values, and goals.
  26. Analyze emergency situations, react quickly, calmly, and effectively to ensure personnel safety.
  27. Calm distressed or distraught patients, victims, relatives, friends, co-workers, and bystanders at an incident to maintain personnel safety.
  28. Evaluate problems related to projects, facility management, and emergency incidents to identify an appropriate course of action.
  29. Analyze information (e.g., dispatch, fact-finding, complaints) and use logic to address work-related issues and problems.
  30. Use critical thinking (e.g., apply logic and reason) to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions to problems.
  31. Provide organizational leadership (e.g., guidance, team integration, motivation) to various personnel to achieve the Department’s mission, vision, values, and goals.
  32. Function as a positive role model for subordinate personnel, leading by example, maintaining open lines of communication, and providing a work environment to build a safe effective team.
  33. Lead and direct resources (e.g., engines, dozers, crews) during all risk emergencies (e.g., structure fires, wildland fires, earthquakes) to achieve the Department’s mission, vision, values, and goals.
  34. Conduct classroom and field training, including the preparation of lesson plans and the evaluation of student performance, to train a workforce.
  35. Be part of a team and to work in cooperation with others on the job and display a cooperative attitude to achieve a common goal.
  36. Create and maintain a healthy work environment that is free of discrimination and harassment to comply with Department policies and procedures.
  37. Demonstrate, develop, and implement occupational Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) to maintain a healthy workplace.
  38. Direct (e.g., supervise, assign tasks, coordinate) a crew to accomplish a specified task and meet objectives.
  39. Engage in strenuous physical activity, which under emergency situations may require long working hours under various types of stress (e.g., physical, emotional, environmental) to achieve the Department’s mission, vision, values, and goals.
  40. Hike on steep and uneven terrain while carrying equipment in all weather conditions to complete job duties.
  41. Adhere to the Department's Code of Conduct to comply with the Department’s policies and procedures.
  42. Assess nature and extent of fire, condition of building, danger to adjacent buildings, and water supply status to determine crew or company requirements.
  43. Carry, maneuver, raise, and lower various types of ladders (e.g. straight, extension) to complete job duties.
  44. Give appropriate fire-ground and emergency scene commands to effectively mitigate the incident.
  45. Implement, evaluate, and modify tactical plans during an emergency to effectively mitigate the incident.
  46. Analyze and assess effectiveness of emergency medical services care (e.g., audit emergency medical services reports, patient outcome, data collection) to comply with State and local laws and Department policies and procedures.
  47. Act as a liaison between cooperating emergency medical services agencies (e.g., Local Emergency Medical Services Agencies [LEMSA], local hospitals, ambulance providers) to achieve the Department’s mission.
  48. Serve as the Ryan White liaison to the Unit at the direction of the Unit Chief to comply with Department policies and procedures.
  49. Follow Emergency Medical Services (EMS) policies and protocols to provide proper patient care.

Eligible List Information

A Departmental Open eligible list for the FIRE CAPTAIN 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.

Resulting Eligibility List(s) will be used to fill vacancies throughout the State of California.

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.

Testing Departments

  • Department of Forestry & Fire Protection

Contact Information

Questions regarding this examination should be directed to:

CAL FIRE Examination Unit
710 Riverpoint Ct.
West Sacramento, CA 95605
Phone: (916) 894-9580
CALFIREexams@fire.ca.gov

CAL FIRE Reasonable Accommodation Coordinator
710 Riverpoint Ct.
West Sacramento, CA 95605
Phone: (916) 767-8359
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.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.

Drug Free Statement

It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free State work place. Any applicant for State employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective, because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing civil service, and the special trust placed in public servants.

General Information

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.

Application Methods:
Electronic (Your CalCareer Account)