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Fire Cadet

Paraprofessional Temp

(Temporary/Part-Time – Fire Department)

$21.20 - $23.37 per hour

(Depending on experience)

15 - 20 Hours Per Week

(No benefits available with this position)

APPLICATION DEADLINE:   Apply by Monday, August 5, 2024, for first consideration

THE CITY is focused on enhancing our community members’ quality of life through well-designed services and a positive workplace culture.  San Rafael is the economic and cultural heart of Marin County, and its high quality of life is centered on its commercial districts, engaged neighborhoods, active lifestyle, and natural environment.  San Rafael (population 62,000) is a full-service city with a city council/city manager form of government with 12 departments, more than 400 employees, and an annual budget of $172 million.  The City’s vision is to be a vibrant economic and cultural center reflective of its diversity.  The City Council is engaged and seeks to strengthen the urban and commercial areas as well as sustain the beautiful natural environment. 

San Rafael’s Organizational culture framework is an initiative called “Together San Rafael.”  City employees are our greatest asset, and we seek talented individuals with diverse backgrounds who are creative, curious, and excited about a challenge.  We are a results-driven team focused on the needs of community members.  The Together San Rafael initiative is focused on modernizing City services and increasing the engagement of employees.  This initiative recognizes the interconnectedness of the customer and employee experience. 

The City of San Rafael Fire Department is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic individual to join our team as a Fire Cadet.  This opportunity is designed for individuals who are pursuing a career in the fire service and want to gain hands-on experience in a professional firefighting environment.  As a Fire Cadet, you will work closely with our experienced Firefighter-Paramedics, Prevention and Mitigation staff to learn about fire department operations, fire prevention administration, emergency response procedures, and community engagement. 

This is a temp/seasonal position, limited to 1,000 hours worked within a fiscal year (July 1 thru June 30) that receives no City benefits other than what is mandated by the State of California.  This cadetship is expected to last one year.  The exact duration may vary based on department needs and cadet performance. 

Join us at the San Rafael Fire Department and embark on a journey toward a fulfilling career in the fire service.  The cadetship will provide valuable experiences that will set the foundation for a successful future in firefighting and emergency response. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Emergency Response Support:  Provide support services to crews at prolonged incidents including fires, medical emergencies, rescues, and hazardous materials incidents.  Participate in drills and exercises to enhance your understanding of emergency response protocols.
• Training Participation:  Attend training sessions, workshops, and skill-building exercises to learn about fire suppression techniques, search and rescue operations, medical aid procedures, and other essential fire skills.
• Equipment and Facility Maintenance:  Assist in the maintenance and inspection of firefighting equipment, tools, and apparatus.  Learn proper care and upkeep of gear and tools to ensure readiness for emergency situations.  Assist in the tracking, organizing, and dispensing of inventory.
• Community Outreach:  Participate in community events, educational programs, and public demonstrations to promote fire safety awareness and engage with the local community.  Serve as an ambassador for the fire department and provide information about fire prevention and preparedness.
• Administrative Support:  Assist with administrative tasks such as record-keeping, data entry, and inventory management.  Gain exposure to the behind-the scenes operations of a fire department. 
• Physical Fitness:  Work towards maintaining a level of physical fitness necessary for performing firefighting duties.  Engage in physical training and conditioning activities as directed by the department.
• Professional Development:  Actively seek opportunities for learning and growth within the fire service.  Take part in discussions with experienced firefighters to gain insights into career pathways and development strategies.

Desired Qualifications:

• Recent High School Grad preferred.
• Previous participation in a recognized firefighting explorer program, academy, fire science program, or related program or activity.
• Basic knowledge of firefighting principles and practices.
• Strong commitment to safety and adherence to protocols.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment as well as adhere to the chain of command.
• Physical fitness and ability to perform basic physical tasks, continuously move +/- 25 pounds, and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including weekends.
• Bilingual language skills.

Benefits Gained by Working with the City of San Rafael Fire Department:

• Hands-on experience in a professional firefighting setting.
• Exposure to a variety of emergency response scenarios.
• Learning opportunities from experienced firefighters and officers.
• Networking opportunities within the fire service community.
• Potential for career guidance and mentorship.

APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS:

City of San Rafael application is required.  Resumes do not substitute for the City application.  Candidates should detail related education and experience on the application.  The examination process may include the following application appraisal and oral board interview examination.  Note:  Prior to appointment, candidate must pass a background check, driving record (if position requires a valid driver’s license) and fingerprinting.  To file an application, go to:  www.calopps.org.  Select “Member Agencies”.  Select “San Rafael”.  Follow this link to submit your application:  https://www.calopps.org/san-rafael/job-20527989.

Reasonable Accommodation:  The City of San Rafael will make reasonable accommodations in the exam process to accommodate disabled applicants.  If you have a disability for which you require accommodation, please contact us at (415) 485-3474 before the test date. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions of this job.  Such accommodation must be requested by the applicant.