Employment

Become one of the bravest

Have you ever wondered what it takes to join the ranks of the Poway Fire Department? A career in the fire service can be physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding but it can also provide the immeasurable reward of serving your community and making a very real difference in someone's life. This isn't just a job, it's a calling. The members of the Poway Fire Department live by simple guiding principles and if you have the heart to do the same, we invite you to join the team and answer the call.

How to Get Started

The entry level position is Firefighter/Paramedic. Firefighter/Paramedics respond to all fires, medical emergencies, hazardous materials incidents, rescues and other emergent and non-emergency situations. This position requires both fire suppression and emergency medical training. 

  • Complete a paramedic training program in preparation for California Paramedic licensure. The County of San Diego EMS Office approves all paramedic training programs in the County. 
  • Complete fire science curriculum. Many local colleges offer fire science programs that meet the minimum requirement for employment.
  • Complete an accredited fire academy. Admission to a fire academy is not guaranteed and most academies receive more applications than there are available seats. Successful candidates typically have more than the minimum required training and experience. 
  • Develop your physical fitness. Candidates must possess mobility, physical strength and stamina to respond to emergency situations and use all emergency apparatus equipment; perform medium to heavy physical work, to work in confined spaces, around machines and to climb and descend ladders. Individual fire academies may have specific physical fitness requirements. 
  • Gain experience. Firefighting experience can be gained by joining a reserve or volunteer program hosted by a fire agency. At this time, the City of Poway does not offer any of these programs.

The City of Poway is a member of the Firefighter Candidate Testing Center (FCTC) that was established by the California Firefighter Joint Apprenticeship Committee (CalJAC). CalJAC is the established leader in recruitment, outreach and standardized training programs for firefighters in California. The FCTC maintains a statewide eligibility list that is used by over 170 California fire departments to assist with the hiring process.