OC
Firefighter Trainee
Orange County Fire AuthorityDescription
Salary (during academy):
$5,974.80 per month
Salary (first day of the pay period following academy graduation):
$6,763.12 per month (Base Salary Step 1) + $608.68 (9% EMT Pay)* = $7,371.80 per month
This recruitment may be used to fill multiple future academies.
Schedule Of Events
Sunday, March 1, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.: Last day to apply on-line
March 21, 2026 – April 12, 2026: Biddle Physical Agility Test coordinated by the OCFA (possession of a current Biddle Physical Ability Certificate completed on or after September 1, 2025 WILL be substituted for this portion of the selection process)
May 4 – 29, 2026: Oral Interview
TBD: Eligibility List Established
June 15 – July 17, 2026: Chief's Interview
August 17 – November 30, 2026: Background Investigation, Pre-employment Medical Examination, and Pre-Academy Physical Fitness Assessment
December 11, 2026: Academy On-Boarding Orientation
February 5, 2027: First Day of Fire Academy/Family Orientation
Please note, all dates are subject to change based on the OCFA needs.
Class Summary
Under close supervision in a training capacity, to learn to perform firefighting duties used in the suppression of structural, aircraft, wildland, and other types of fires; to learn to perform routine fire prevention activities; and to learn other duties as required.
Distinguishing Characteristics
This is a trainee class. Incumbents attend an OCFA departmental academy to develop and demonstrate the minimum qualifications required for entry into a career as a firefighter. Appointment as a firefighter is based on satisfactory evaluations and graduation from the academy.
Essential Functions
To review the entire Firefighter Trainee job description please go to www.ocfa.org.
Minimum Qualifications
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE (position requirements at time of application):
Applicants MUST attach a copy of their valid, current California or National Registry EMT or Paramedic License at time of application submission. Only a copy of one of the licenses below will meet this requirement.
Failure to submit required document at time of application will result in disqualification.
Highly Desired Qualifications
Online Application
Human Resources will screen all applications for minimum qualifications as listed above.
Written Examination
The OCFA utilizes the FCTC's Statewide Eligibility List (SEL). Applicants must be on the FCTC SEL at the end of OCFA’s application acceptance period, Sunday, March 1, 2026. The requirements to be placed on the FCTC SEL are as follows:
To view the FCTC test schedule, click here.
For information regarding the FCTC financial hardship grant, click here.
All of the information above can be found on FCTC’s website at www.fctconline.org
Exam scores from previous FCTC written exams taken as part of an OCFA recruitment process will not be considered in lieu of placement on the FCTC SEL.
Only qualified OCFA candidates on the FCTC SEL with a score of 80% or higher will be invited to the Biddle Physical Ability Test. The written exam will have a weight of 25% of the candidate's overall score.
Biddle Physical Agility Examination
Candidates must pass the Biddle Physical Ability Test in a time of 9 minutes and 34 seconds or less. The Biddle Physical Ability Test will be coordinated by the OCFA at a nearby Orange County college (TBD) and proctored by the college staff.
Oral Panel Interview
The minimum passing score is 80%. The panel interview will have a weight of 75% of the candidate's overall score. All candidates who achieve a passing score on the panel interview will be placed on the eligibility list.
The panel interview will be arranged by Human Resources. Human Resources will notify referred candidates by EMAIL of the scheduled dates, times, and locations.
Eligibility List
Placement on the eligibility list will be established based on a combination of the written examination (25%) and the panel oral interview scores (75%). The Biddle Physical Ability Test is pass/fail. The eligibility list will remain in effect for a period of one (1) year from the date of establishment or until all the names on the list are exhausted. The eligibility list may be extended or abolished at the discretion of the Assistant Chief of Human Resources.
Chief's Interview
Candidates who successfully complete the Chief's interview may be invited to begin the pre-employment background process.
The Chief's interview will be arranged by Human Resources. Human Resources will notify referred candidates by EMAIL of the scheduled dates, times, and locations.
Selection
Tentative selections will be completed after the Fire Chief interviews. Final placement in any academy will be determined based on successful completion of:
Candidate must successfully complete a comprehensive pre-employment medical exam including a drug screen through the OCFA's designated physician.
Pre-employment Background
Candidate must successfully complete a comprehensive pre-employment background investigation including but not limited to fingerprinting, current and previous employment history check, reference check, DMV check, criminal history check, and licensure/certification check.
Pre-academy Physical Fitness Assessment
Candidate must complete a comprehensive Pre-Academy Physical Fitness Assessment through the OCFA's designated assessment vendor.
All job offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal conviction check (Live-Scan), comprehensive pre-employment medical exam and drug screen, and pre-academy physical fitness assessment.
After an offer of employment is made, a candidate must be able to provide proof of eligibility to work in the United States in accordance with Immigration and Reform Control Act of 1986.
Loyalty Oath
All new employees must take an oath of allegiance to the United States of America and the State of California.
Americans With Disabilities Act (ada Accommodation)
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, anyone who needs an ADA accommodation for the purposes of employment testing should contact Brad Stephens, Senior Human Resources Analyst at (714) 573 - 6816 or via email at [email protected] within 72 hours prior to the need for the accommodation.
Tobacco Products
Employees represented by the OCPFA hired after September 1, 2016 are not permitted to use tobacco products on or off duty.
Questions
All questions regarding this position should be directed to Brad Stephens, Senior Human Resources Analyst at (714) 573 - 6816 or via email at [email protected].
Note
The provisions of this publication do not constitute an express or implied contract. Any provision in this publication may be modified or revoked without notice.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The Orange County Fire Authority is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
Employment Status
Firefighter trainees must successfully complete the Authority's Basic Fire Academy as a condition of employment. Employees under this classification are represented by the Orange County Professional Firefighters Association (OCPFA) IAFF - Local 3631.
Salary
Firefighter trainees receive a flat hourly wage rate as stated in the job description. Trainees are not eligible for a merit increase due to the "trainee" capacity.
Health Benefits
Pursuant to a Health Plan Agreement, the Authority contributes to the OCPFA medical benefit trust fund for health insurance and other related benefits. Brown Insurance Services (BIS) is the administrator for these benefits. The current contribution to the medical benefit trust fund will continue through 6/30/2026 in the amount of $2,199.49/month for "actively employed" enrollee members of the unit.
Retirement
All regular OCFA employees are members of the Orange County Employees Retirement System (OCERS) - a defined benefit retirement program. Employees are enrolled in one of the following retirement formulas based on date of hire.
Legacy Safety Members: Employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 who establish reciprocity with OCERS are enrolled in the 3% at age 55 retirement formula (Plan R). The compensation limit for Legacy members for 2025 is $350,000.
New Safety Members: Employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 without reciprocity are enrolled in the 2.7% at age 57 retirement formula (Plan V). The compensation limit for PEPRA members for 2025 is $186,096 (non-Social Security Participants).
For more information about OCERS retirement, please visit OCERS, or view the Retirement Plan HERE.
Deferred Compensation
Employees may voluntarily participate in the Authority’s deferred compensation plan. This plan is provided by Nationwide Retirement Services and allows for pre- and post-tax deferrals. This plan is 100% employee funded.
OCPFA Supplemental Retiree Medical Plan
Employees contribute 1.0% of their base salary towards the Orange County Professional Firefighters Association (OCPFA) Supplemental Retiree Medical Plan Trust Fund.
Social Security
Orange County Fire Authority employees are not covered under the provisions of Federal Social Security (OASDI); therefore, they are not required to contribute 6.2% of salary towards Social Security.
Medicare
Employees contribute 1.45% to Medicare. Employees whose wages exceed $200,000 in a calendar year shall contribute an additional 0.9%.
Updated 03/2025
01
The Orange County Fire Authority uses e-mail to notify applicants of important information relating to the status and processing of applications. We do so as part of our ongoing efforts to increase efficiency, conserve resources, and minimize delays and costs. Therefore, as an applicant, please ensure that the e-mail address you provide is current, secure, and readily accessible to you. We recommend that you do not share e-mail addresses with other individuals who may inadvertently delete important communications sent to you. Spam or other filters should be adjusted to accept e-mails from ocfa.org and governmentjobs.com. Please read each e-mail notice carefully and in a timely manner. Follow further instructions, if any. Please acknowledge that I have read, understand, and agree to the above.
Are you a current Orange County Fire Authority employee?
As of today (date of application submission), are you at least 18 years of age?
As of today (date of application submission), do you possess, or have you earned one of the following: a high school diploma or a high school general equivalency diploma?
From the choices below, select the highest level of education you have completed.
As of today (date of application submission), do you possess one of the following: a valid, current California or National Registry EMT License? NOTE: Applicants must attach a copy of their valid California or National Registry EMT License OR California or National Registry Paramedic License at time of application to be invited to the Biddle. Failure to submit the required documentation at time of application will result in disqualification.
Please provide your California or National Registry EMT License number. If you do not possess a California or National Registry EMT License please write "N/A."
08
As of today (date of application submission), do you possess one of the following: a valid, current California or National Registry Paramedic License? NOTE: Applicants must attach a copy of their valid California or National Registry EMT License OR California or National Registry Paramedic License at time of application to be invited to the Biddle. Failure to submit the required documentation at time of application will result in disqualification.
Please provide your California or National Registry Paramedic License number. If you do not possess a California or National Registry Paramedic License, please write "N/A."
10
Are you currently on the FCTC SEL with a score of 80% or higher on the written exam?
If you are currently on the FCTC SEL with a written exam between 03/02/2025 – 03/01/2026 and a score of 80% or higher please provide your FCTC ID number. If you have not completed the FCTC written exam between 03/02/2025 – 03/01/2026 with a score of 80% please write "N/A."
12
Have you successfully completed a Biddle Physical Agility Test between 09/01/2025 – 03/01/2026? If you have successfully completed a Biddle Physical Agilities Test between 09/01/2025 – 03/01/2026, you MUST attach a copy of your certificate to your application to substitute participation in this portion of the selection process.
Have you completed a California State certified Firefighter I Academy?
Do you possess a California State Fire Marshal Fire Fighter I Certificate?
Please provide a scanned copy of the license(s) and/or certificate(s) you possess. Check the items below which you've scanned and attached to your online application. NOTE: Only a valid California or National Registry EMT License is required and must be submitted at time of application (possession and submission of a valid California or National Registry Paramedic License may be submitted in lieu of a valid EMT license). At this time only attach licenses or certificates listed in the qualifications or highly desired qualifications section of the recruitment announcement. Applicants will have an opportunity to provide all other certificates, licenses, resumes, and letters of recommendations during the interview process.
Do you possess a valid Class C California Driver License or out of state equivalent?
From the list below, please select any additional language other than English that you speak fluently.
Salary (during academy):
$5,974.80 per month
Salary (first day of the pay period following academy graduation):
$6,763.12 per month (Base Salary Step 1) + $608.68 (9% EMT Pay)* = $7,371.80 per month
- Additional bonus pay may be applicable after academy graduation, depending on eligibility criteria specified in Article XXIV, Section 2 of the OCPFA Local 3631 MOU.
This recruitment may be used to fill multiple future academies.
Schedule Of Events
Sunday, March 1, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.: Last day to apply on-line
March 21, 2026 – April 12, 2026: Biddle Physical Agility Test coordinated by the OCFA (possession of a current Biddle Physical Ability Certificate completed on or after September 1, 2025 WILL be substituted for this portion of the selection process)
May 4 – 29, 2026: Oral Interview
TBD: Eligibility List Established
June 15 – July 17, 2026: Chief's Interview
August 17 – November 30, 2026: Background Investigation, Pre-employment Medical Examination, and Pre-Academy Physical Fitness Assessment
December 11, 2026: Academy On-Boarding Orientation
February 5, 2027: First Day of Fire Academy/Family Orientation
Please note, all dates are subject to change based on the OCFA needs.
Class Summary
Under close supervision in a training capacity, to learn to perform firefighting duties used in the suppression of structural, aircraft, wildland, and other types of fires; to learn to perform routine fire prevention activities; and to learn other duties as required.
Distinguishing Characteristics
This is a trainee class. Incumbents attend an OCFA departmental academy to develop and demonstrate the minimum qualifications required for entry into a career as a firefighter. Appointment as a firefighter is based on satisfactory evaluations and graduation from the academy.
Essential Functions
To review the entire Firefighter Trainee job description please go to www.ocfa.org.
Minimum Qualifications
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE (position requirements at time of application):
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Possession of a high school diploma or general equivalency diploma (GED)
- No experience required
- Possession of a valid Class C Driver License or out of state equivalent
- Candidates who possess an out of state equivalent license must possess a Commercial Driver’s License at time of appointment.
- Possession of a valid, current California or National Registry Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) License
Applicants MUST attach a copy of their valid, current California or National Registry EMT or Paramedic License at time of application submission. Only a copy of one of the licenses below will meet this requirement.
Failure to submit required document at time of application will result in disqualification.
Highly Desired Qualifications
- Possession of a valid, current California or National Registry Paramedic License
- Completion of a California State certified Firefighter I Academy
- Possession of a California State Fire Marshal Fire Fighter I Certificate
- Bilingual speaking skills (English and one of the following languages: Spanish, Farsi, Chinese/Mandarin/Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, Urdu, Hindi, Tagalog or American Sign Language)
Online Application
Human Resources will screen all applications for minimum qualifications as listed above.
Written Examination
The OCFA utilizes the FCTC's Statewide Eligibility List (SEL). Applicants must be on the FCTC SEL at the end of OCFA’s application acceptance period, Sunday, March 1, 2026. The requirements to be placed on the FCTC SEL are as follows:
- Register and complete your profile on the FCTC website
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Possess a valid driver’s license – MUST upload to your profile AND keep current
- Have a high school diploma or GED – MUST complete the education field in your profile
- Possess a valid Cal-JAC Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) Card dated March 2, 2025 through March 1, 2026 (CPAT results are uploaded automatically by FCTC)
- Receive a passing score on the FCTC Written Test – Written test score expires 12 months from date taken (written exam must be taken between March 2, 2025 through March 1, 2026 for this recruitment process)
- The OCFA only accepts FCTC scores of 80% or higher
To view the FCTC test schedule, click here.
For information regarding the FCTC financial hardship grant, click here.
All of the information above can be found on FCTC’s website at www.fctconline.org
Exam scores from previous FCTC written exams taken as part of an OCFA recruitment process will not be considered in lieu of placement on the FCTC SEL.
Only qualified OCFA candidates on the FCTC SEL with a score of 80% or higher will be invited to the Biddle Physical Ability Test. The written exam will have a weight of 25% of the candidate's overall score.
Biddle Physical Agility Examination
Candidates must pass the Biddle Physical Ability Test in a time of 9 minutes and 34 seconds or less. The Biddle Physical Ability Test will be coordinated by the OCFA at a nearby Orange County college (TBD) and proctored by the college staff.
- Possession of a current Biddle Physical Ability Certificate completed between September 1, 2025 through March 1, 2026 will be accepted as substitute for participation in this portion of the selection process.
- Candidates MUST attach a copy of their valid Biddle Physical Ability Certificate completed between September 1, 2025 through March 1, 2026 to their application in order to substitute for participation in this portion of the selection process.
- Possession of a CPAT will NOT be accepted in lieu of the Biddle Physical Agility Examination portion of the selection process though it is still required for the FCTC SEL.
Oral Panel Interview
The minimum passing score is 80%. The panel interview will have a weight of 75% of the candidate's overall score. All candidates who achieve a passing score on the panel interview will be placed on the eligibility list.
The panel interview will be arranged by Human Resources. Human Resources will notify referred candidates by EMAIL of the scheduled dates, times, and locations.
Eligibility List
Placement on the eligibility list will be established based on a combination of the written examination (25%) and the panel oral interview scores (75%). The Biddle Physical Ability Test is pass/fail. The eligibility list will remain in effect for a period of one (1) year from the date of establishment or until all the names on the list are exhausted. The eligibility list may be extended or abolished at the discretion of the Assistant Chief of Human Resources.
Chief's Interview
Candidates who successfully complete the Chief's interview may be invited to begin the pre-employment background process.
The Chief's interview will be arranged by Human Resources. Human Resources will notify referred candidates by EMAIL of the scheduled dates, times, and locations.
Selection
Tentative selections will be completed after the Fire Chief interviews. Final placement in any academy will be determined based on successful completion of:
- Pre-employment medical examination
- Background check
- Pre-academy physical fitness assessment
Candidate must successfully complete a comprehensive pre-employment medical exam including a drug screen through the OCFA's designated physician.
Pre-employment Background
Candidate must successfully complete a comprehensive pre-employment background investigation including but not limited to fingerprinting, current and previous employment history check, reference check, DMV check, criminal history check, and licensure/certification check.
Pre-academy Physical Fitness Assessment
Candidate must complete a comprehensive Pre-Academy Physical Fitness Assessment through the OCFA's designated assessment vendor.
All job offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal conviction check (Live-Scan), comprehensive pre-employment medical exam and drug screen, and pre-academy physical fitness assessment.
After an offer of employment is made, a candidate must be able to provide proof of eligibility to work in the United States in accordance with Immigration and Reform Control Act of 1986.
Loyalty Oath
All new employees must take an oath of allegiance to the United States of America and the State of California.
Americans With Disabilities Act (ada Accommodation)
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, anyone who needs an ADA accommodation for the purposes of employment testing should contact Brad Stephens, Senior Human Resources Analyst at (714) 573 - 6816 or via email at [email protected] within 72 hours prior to the need for the accommodation.
Tobacco Products
Employees represented by the OCPFA hired after September 1, 2016 are not permitted to use tobacco products on or off duty.
Questions
All questions regarding this position should be directed to Brad Stephens, Senior Human Resources Analyst at (714) 573 - 6816 or via email at [email protected].
Note
The provisions of this publication do not constitute an express or implied contract. Any provision in this publication may be modified or revoked without notice.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The Orange County Fire Authority is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
Employment Status
Firefighter trainees must successfully complete the Authority's Basic Fire Academy as a condition of employment. Employees under this classification are represented by the Orange County Professional Firefighters Association (OCPFA) IAFF - Local 3631.
Salary
Firefighter trainees receive a flat hourly wage rate as stated in the job description. Trainees are not eligible for a merit increase due to the "trainee" capacity.
Health Benefits
Pursuant to a Health Plan Agreement, the Authority contributes to the OCPFA medical benefit trust fund for health insurance and other related benefits. Brown Insurance Services (BIS) is the administrator for these benefits. The current contribution to the medical benefit trust fund will continue through 6/30/2026 in the amount of $2,199.49/month for "actively employed" enrollee members of the unit.
Retirement
All regular OCFA employees are members of the Orange County Employees Retirement System (OCERS) - a defined benefit retirement program. Employees are enrolled in one of the following retirement formulas based on date of hire.
Legacy Safety Members: Employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 who establish reciprocity with OCERS are enrolled in the 3% at age 55 retirement formula (Plan R). The compensation limit for Legacy members for 2025 is $350,000.
New Safety Members: Employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 without reciprocity are enrolled in the 2.7% at age 57 retirement formula (Plan V). The compensation limit for PEPRA members for 2025 is $186,096 (non-Social Security Participants).
For more information about OCERS retirement, please visit OCERS, or view the Retirement Plan HERE.
Deferred Compensation
Employees may voluntarily participate in the Authority’s deferred compensation plan. This plan is provided by Nationwide Retirement Services and allows for pre- and post-tax deferrals. This plan is 100% employee funded.
OCPFA Supplemental Retiree Medical Plan
Employees contribute 1.0% of their base salary towards the Orange County Professional Firefighters Association (OCPFA) Supplemental Retiree Medical Plan Trust Fund.
Social Security
Orange County Fire Authority employees are not covered under the provisions of Federal Social Security (OASDI); therefore, they are not required to contribute 6.2% of salary towards Social Security.
Medicare
Employees contribute 1.45% to Medicare. Employees whose wages exceed $200,000 in a calendar year shall contribute an additional 0.9%.
Updated 03/2025
01
The Orange County Fire Authority uses e-mail to notify applicants of important information relating to the status and processing of applications. We do so as part of our ongoing efforts to increase efficiency, conserve resources, and minimize delays and costs. Therefore, as an applicant, please ensure that the e-mail address you provide is current, secure, and readily accessible to you. We recommend that you do not share e-mail addresses with other individuals who may inadvertently delete important communications sent to you. Spam or other filters should be adjusted to accept e-mails from ocfa.org and governmentjobs.com. Please read each e-mail notice carefully and in a timely manner. Follow further instructions, if any. Please acknowledge that I have read, understand, and agree to the above.
- Yes
- No
Are you a current Orange County Fire Authority employee?
- Yes
- No
As of today (date of application submission), are you at least 18 years of age?
- Yes
- No
As of today (date of application submission), do you possess, or have you earned one of the following: a high school diploma or a high school general equivalency diploma?
- Yes
- No
From the choices below, select the highest level of education you have completed.
- Less than high school diploma or GED
- High school diploma or GED
- Some college credits completed
- Associate's Degree
- Bachelor's Degree
- Master's Degree
- PhD
As of today (date of application submission), do you possess one of the following: a valid, current California or National Registry EMT License? NOTE: Applicants must attach a copy of their valid California or National Registry EMT License OR California or National Registry Paramedic License at time of application to be invited to the Biddle. Failure to submit the required documentation at time of application will result in disqualification.
- Yes
- No
Please provide your California or National Registry EMT License number. If you do not possess a California or National Registry EMT License please write "N/A."
08
As of today (date of application submission), do you possess one of the following: a valid, current California or National Registry Paramedic License? NOTE: Applicants must attach a copy of their valid California or National Registry EMT License OR California or National Registry Paramedic License at time of application to be invited to the Biddle. Failure to submit the required documentation at time of application will result in disqualification.
- Yes
- No
Please provide your California or National Registry Paramedic License number. If you do not possess a California or National Registry Paramedic License, please write "N/A."
10
Are you currently on the FCTC SEL with a score of 80% or higher on the written exam?
- Yes
- No
If you are currently on the FCTC SEL with a written exam between 03/02/2025 – 03/01/2026 and a score of 80% or higher please provide your FCTC ID number. If you have not completed the FCTC written exam between 03/02/2025 – 03/01/2026 with a score of 80% please write "N/A."
12
Have you successfully completed a Biddle Physical Agility Test between 09/01/2025 – 03/01/2026? If you have successfully completed a Biddle Physical Agilities Test between 09/01/2025 – 03/01/2026, you MUST attach a copy of your certificate to your application to substitute participation in this portion of the selection process.
- Yes
- No
Have you completed a California State certified Firefighter I Academy?
- Yes
- No
Do you possess a California State Fire Marshal Fire Fighter I Certificate?
- Yes
- No
Please provide a scanned copy of the license(s) and/or certificate(s) you possess. Check the items below which you've scanned and attached to your online application. NOTE: Only a valid California or National Registry EMT License is required and must be submitted at time of application (possession and submission of a valid California or National Registry Paramedic License may be submitted in lieu of a valid EMT license). At this time only attach licenses or certificates listed in the qualifications or highly desired qualifications section of the recruitment announcement. Applicants will have an opportunity to provide all other certificates, licenses, resumes, and letters of recommendations during the interview process.
- California EMT License
- National Registry EMT License
- California Paramedic License
- National Registry Paramedic License
- California State Fire Marshal Fire Fighter I Certificate
- California State certified Basic Fire Academy Certificate
- I did not provide any of the certificates listed above
Do you possess a valid Class C California Driver License or out of state equivalent?
- Yes
- No
From the list below, please select any additional language other than English that you speak fluently.
- Spanish
- Farsi
- Chinese
- Mandarin
- Cantonese
- Korean
- Vietnamese
- Urdu
- Hindi
- Tagalog
- American Sign Language
- I do not speak any of the languages listed above
- Required Question
Job Type
- Job Type
- Full Time
- Location
- Irvine, CA
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