City of San José

The San José Fire Department is seeking motivated individuals who are ready to meet the challenge, serve their community, and make a lasting impact. If you thrive in fast-paced environments and have a passion for helping others, this is your chance to begin your career as a Firefighter Recruit.

The Firefighter Recruit position is the entry point into a career with SJFD, providing comprehensive training in firefighting, emergency medical response, and essential lifesaving skills. Through a blend of instruction, teamwork, and hands-on experience, recruits develop the foundation needed for a successful fire service career.

This recruitment is for Firefighter Recruit Academy 26-02, which is scheduled to begin in July 2026.

FIREFIGHTER RECRUIT COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Compensation for the Firefighter Recruit classification is $50.16 hourly, $4,012.80 bi-weekly.*
• Upon successful completion of the academy, compensation for Firefighter, Step 1 $4,613.60 bi-weekly, $119,955.68 annually, plus various premium pays for eligible employees, including paramedic pay, bilingual pay, and education incentive pay.
• The City of San José offers a wide range of core health benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, Employee Assistance Program, Life Insurance, Disability, and Savings Plans. Visit the City's benefits webpage for detailed information on coverage, cost, and dependent coverage.
• For information on the City’s Retirement Plan (pension for full-time employees), visit the Office of Retirement Services' website. You will be able to view information based on different Sworn/Federated job classifications.
• Additional perks of working for the City of San José include paid leave, educational reimbursements, and more. Visit the City's perks webpage for more information.

*In addition to the salary, employees shall also receive an approximate one percent (1%) ongoing non-pensionable compensation pay.

About SJFD: SJFD's core mission is to serve the community by protecting life, property, and the environment through prevention and response. SJFD is a high-volume, all-hazards fire department providing fire suppression and rescue services that protect approximately 200 square miles, Advanced Life Support and Basic Life Support services, as well as specialized operations, including Urban Search and Rescue, Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting, and a Hazardous Materials Unit with a Decontamination Unit. SJFD deploys resources from 34 fire stations, protecting areas within city limits and some unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County by contract. SJFD currently has 720 authorized sworn positions across nine ranks, offering many opportunities for career advancement.

Learn more about this recruitment and apply by Wednesday, December 17, 2025: www.sanjoseca.gov/recruitment

Questions? Email us at SJFDRecruiting@sanjoseca.gov. Learn more about the San José Fire Department at www.SJFD.org.