Resident Firefighter

Resident Firefighter Program


Under this program, students live in CAL FIRE/TCFD Fire Stations while attending college and responding to calls in the evenings and weekends. There is a small compensation given for shift work and for responding to calls. The average number of Resident Firefighters is usually between 10 and 15 and most usually find permanent employment after two or three winters.


For more information on how to become a Resident Firefighter please contact the Resident Firefighter Coordinator Terry Matlick at (209) 984-5623 or visit the Jamestown Fire Station at 18249 4th Ave, Jamestown, CA 95370.


JOB DEFINITION:

Under the direction of a Station Officer, to provide supplemental staffing for an engine company; to participate in fire and rescue training; to perform related work as assigned. Works 11 to 22 hours per week depending on shift schedule.


MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Be a minimum of 18 years of age.
  • Possess a High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Possess a valid California State Driver's License.
  • Possess and maintain physical conditioning necessary to perform efficiently in emergency situations; meet medical and physical agility standards as established.
  • Be capable of establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with fellow firefighters, career staff, and the general public; to respond readily to directives and work effectively as a team player.

Firefighting is a very strenuous and demanding job, both physically and mentally. Firefighting involves a great deal of manipulative training and demands dedication, perseverance, good judgment and a positive attitude. You will possibly see death, catastrophic loss and work endless hours under pressure. If you should choose to begin the process of becoming a Volunteer Firefighter with Tuolumne County Fire Department know that it is not an easy task but what you will acquire is invaluable


 How do I get started?


  • Get a DMV driving record print out (must be current within 30 days) You can get one online https://www.dmv.ca.gov
  • Download and fill out an application. Submit the completed packet to TCFD office 18440 Striker Court, Sonora
  • Complete an oral interview.
  • Complete & pass a medical physical (you will be directed to TCFD's approved physician and the cost is covered.)
  • Complete Live Scan
  • Complete a Safety Orientation
  • Enroll in & complete the Tuolumne County Regional Fire Academy (344 hours) that will be completed over several months of night and weekend classes
    • Firefighter 1A (264 Hours)
    • Firefighter 1B (24 Hours)
    • Firefighter 1C (56 Hours)
       

 

After you become a volunteer, you need to maintain the following

  • Attend 50% of MONTHLY STATION TRAINING SESSIONS (Annually)
  • Respond to 20% of STATION DISPATCHED INCIDENTS (Annually)
  • Complete 8 hours of HAZARDOUS MATERIALS REFRESHER COURSE (Annually)
  • Complete 8 hours of BLOOD BORNE PATHOGENS REFRESHER COURSE (Annually)
  • Complete 2 hours of RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES IN THE WORKPLACE-EEO COURSE (Bi-annually)
  • Complete 16 hours of EMS CE’s to retain First Responder Certification (Bi-annually)
  • Complete 48 hours of DRILL SESSIONS-CATEGORY II(Annually)
  • Complete 8 hours of DEFENSIVE DRIVING REFRESHER COURSE (Every four years)
  • Complete 4 hours for a MEDICAL PHYSICAL (Annually)
  • Complete 2 hours for a FIT TEST (Annually)


Some of these trainings will be incorporated into the Monthly Station Training Sessions to consolidate training hours.

For more information please contact:


CAL FIRE / Tuolumne County Fire Department Training Division
(209) 533-5118

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

In the performance of a Volunteer Firefighters duties you will be assigned to place equipment, lay and connect hose, operate high-capacity pumps and direct water streams. You will raise and climb ladders, use chemical extinguishers and a self contained breathing apparatus. You will be responding to medical emergencies of all types.


DOWNLOAD AN APPLICATION HERE