Firefighter Recruit

Firefighter Recruit is one of the most popular entry level job classifications in the City of San Diego. In recent years, when the Basic Fire Academy asks for applications, the number of applicants far exceeds the number who can be accepted. Because of the immense interest in the position, the City of San Diego does not widely advertise Fire Recruit openings. Be aware the Fire Recruit position opens infrequently and the resulting eligibility list lasts one year.

A Fire Recruit is under constant supervision while attending the Fire Academy. The academy prepares recruits for a fire fighting career and also teaches them to perform related work.

Fire Recruit is an entry-level class in the Firefighter series. Upon successful completion of the Fire Academy, recruits are promoted to Firefighter I.

Examples of Fire Recruit Duties

Attends a 14 week paid Fire Academy which includes course work and practice in fire prevention and suppression, emergency medical training and State and local laws

Minimum Qualifications of Fire Recruit

Possession of a current valid Emergency Medical Technician Certificate issued by the State of California or by a EMT certifying agency approved by the State of California; County of San Diego EMT System ID Card; Certificate for Basic Life Support for the Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiac Provider.
A valid California Class C Driver's License

Educational Information

Miramar College
Main Campus
10440 Black Mountain Road
San Diego, CA 92129
General Information
(858) 536-7800 Fire Technology and Emergency Medical Technician Programs (Camp Nimitz Campus)
(619) 523-2932

Palomar College
Main Campus
1951 East Valley Parkway
Escondido, CA 92027
General Information
(760) 744-1150 Emergency Medical Technician and Paramedic Programs
(760) 744-1150 Extension 8150 Fire Technology Program (San Marcos Campus) (760) 744-1150 Extension 1770

Southwestern College
900 Otay Lakes Road
Chula Vista, CA 91910
General Information
(619) 421-6700 Fire Technology, Emergency Medical Technician and Paramedic Programs (619) 428-6460

San Diego Metro Regional Occupational Program
Emergency Medical Technician Program
  (619) 596-3690 Grossmont
Fire Technology
  (619) 590-3923 East County
Dispatcher Program
  (619) 644-7550 Grossmont