THE CITY OF EL CAJON IS LOOKING FOR FIREFIGHTER TRAINEES!

The New Position

Firefighter Trainee is sworn position and a member of the El Cajon Professionals Firefighters Association. The City of El Cajon and the Fire Department will work with each candidate's schedule to complete a paramedic program during the three year probationary period.

The Recruitment Process

Interested applicants must complete the online application, supplemental questionnaire, and submit with the required attachments by the deadline. These materials will be screened and used to establish the City of El Cajon eligibility list for employment consideration. Candidates who meet the qualification guidelines will be placed on the eligibility list and invited to participate in the selection process outlined below.

Selection Process Will Include

Week of 12/8/2025 - Physical Abilities Test (PAT)*
- *Requirements to waive PAT: Possession of CPAT certificate within last 6 months, or enrollment in a Firefighter I academy currently or within the last 6 months.
Week of 12/8/2025 - EMT Skills Assessment and Interview
Week of 12/15/2025 - Selection Interview

The Opportunity

The City of El Cajon is seen as a leader among cities and a wonderful location to live, work and play. The City offers extensive benefits plans, defined retirement, wellness incentives, and much more. Ultimately, El Cajon is a shining example of a local government that provides exceptional municipal service with an innovative mindset. Learn more about the City of El Cajon at www.elcajon.gov.

The City of El Cajon's Fire Department is a contributing member of Heartland Fire & Rescue (HFR). HFR was formed via a Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) to share the cost of a single management team among the three member cities. This unique cooperative fire service agreement provides cost containment opportunities, while maintaining local control within the Cities' jurisdictions. Please visit the El Cajon Professional Firefighters Local 4603 (ECPFF-MOU) for more information on compensation and benefits.

Please visit the City of El Cajon website for the full job description: Firefighter Trainee

Experience:None required. Six months as certified EMT preferred. Previous fire suppression experience highly desirable.

Education: Educational achievement equivalent to graduation from high school.

Special Requirements

Possession of valid California EMT certification and County of San Diego EMT certification at time of application, and for duration of employment.
Possession of valid Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers (CPR-BCH) certificate at time of application, and for duration of employment.
Possession of a State Fire Training Firefighter 1 Certificate at time of appointment.
Possession of valid California Class C Driver's License, and acceptable driving record at time of appointment and during course of employment.

The 2025-2026 County of San Diego EMS protocols will be used during the Firefighter Trainee selection process. For reference, you may click on the following link to access the County of San Diego protocols website: Emergency Medical Services Treatment Protocols/Policies

Candidates who move forward in the pre-employment process may go through a thorough background investigation, including a polygraph examination, psychological exam and a pre-employment medical evaluation.

City of El Cajon

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