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Are you ready to begin a rewarding and challenging career where every day brings the chance to make a difference? The City of Lincoln is now accepting applications for the Firefighter classification!

We welcome both experienced firefighters and entry-level candidates eager to serve and protect our community. As a Firefighter, you’ll join a dedicated team that responds to emergencies, provides life-saving assistance, and ensures the safety of Lincoln’s residents. If you have a passion for service, teamwork, and making a real impact, now is the time to apply!

Firefighters are expected to uphold the City and Department’s mission, values, and goals while performing skilled emergency service work. This includes responding to emergency and non-emergency calls, fire suppression, emergency medical care, hazardous materials response, public assistance, as well as participating in station, apparatus, and equipment maintenance, training, and other related duties.

This classification is represented by the Lincoln Professional Firefighters Association, Local 522, and carries an 18-month probationary period.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

The ability to work effectively under supervision and within a team structure is a significant element of the position.  Effective communication skills are needed work safely and be successful in the position.  The Firefighter should be self-motivated, able to complete work assigned in an effective, efficient, and safe manner, and be able to exercise independent judgment.  The capability of performing duties during various emergency operations is essential.  Firefighters must be able work for extended periods of time at emergency incidents that may involve physical exertion often under adverse environmental conditions.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Supervision is received from a Fire Captain.  Work is inspected in process and upon completion.  A Firefighter is responsible for their personal actions and conduct.  Evaluations are provided on a regular schedule and are based on individual performance as well as their interactions with other Company and Department members.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Include but are not limited to the following:

• Be an advocate for the mission statement, core values, and goals of the City of Lincoln and the Lincoln Fire Department.
• Communicates and establishes positive working relationships with the general public in order to deliver service of all types including emergency response, business inspections, participating in school programs, answering questions, and assessing customer needs.
• Completes tasks as assigned.
• Responds to emergency and non-emergency calls for service as a member of a fire company.
• Assisting in the fire suppression activities including operating electric generators, ventilation fans, deploying and connecting hose lines; holding nozzles and directing water streams; raising and climbing ladders; using portable fire extinguishers, axes, bars, hooks, ropes, power-driven tools, and other equipment; use of salvage covers to prevent water damage; overhauling and cleaning up after a fire.
• Operate fire department vehicles and apparatus.
• Donning and working in personal protective equipment including self contained breathing apparatus.
• Upon return to the fire station, clean, service, and ensures apparatus and equipment are available for emergency response.
• Administer first aid and operate various emergency medical devices.
• Perform rescue operations of persons in life and non-life threatening situations.
• Proper use of fire department communication equipment.
• Cleans and maintains station quarters and grounds; performs first-line preventive maintenance on apparatus; cleans, maintains and tests equipment.
• Participates in fire drills and training exercises.
• Become familiar with City streets, fire hydrants, building occupancies and contents.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS

The physical demands here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Position requires: sitting, twisting and reaching for equipment; perform various tasks that require standing, walking, bending, stooping, squatting, climbing, kneeling, simple and power grasping, pushing, pulling, and fine manipulation; wear appropriate personal protective equipment; perform physical activities of a strenuous nature; see and hear with sufficient acuity; may lift heavy objects, especially when responding to or operating at emergency situations or incidents.

The work environments described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job.  Positions requires: working indoors and outdoors; traveling in a vehicle to emergency situations or other calls for service at anytime of day; may be exposed to atmospheres that may be immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) including dust, noise, smoke, fumes, gases, oil, grease, constant equipment vibration, machinery with moving parts, moving objects and other vehicles, wet and slippery surfaces; working unusual and prolonged schedules during emergencies in all weather conditions including extreme temperatures.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

The following are minimal qualifications necessary for entry into the classification:

Age

• Must be at least 18 years of age

Education

• High School Diploma or equivalent.  Fire Science Certificate from a regionally accredited college or university is highly desirable.

Experience

• The knowledge, skills and abilities necessary for a Firefighter can be obtained by any combination of the following: successful work experience history involving significant public contact with customer service responsibilities, course work in fire science, experience as a paid or volunteer Firefighter, or successful completion of a Fire Training Academy.

License/Certificate

• If no prior firefighting experience is possessed, applicants must be current on the Firefighter Candidate Testing Center (FCTC) Statewide Eligibility List (SEL) as of 09/26/2025.
  • For more information on how to be placed on the FCTC SEL, visit https://www.fctconline.org/find-a-job/fctc-statewide-list/
• A passing score on the FCTC Written Test must be dated between 09/26/2024 and 09/26/2025. 
  • Candidates experiencing financial hardship may qualify for a grant to pay for their FCTC testing fees. (https://www.fctconline.org/grants/)
• Cal-JAC CPAT (Candidate Physical Ability Test) Card must be dated within 24 months of date of hire.
  • To view upcoming Cal-JAC CPAT and FCTC Written Test dates, click here (https://www.fctconline.org/candidates/upcoming-test-schedule/)
• Possession of a current Emergency Medical Technician I (EMT-I) Certificate.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Class C operator’s license with Firefighter Endorsement.
• Within 18 months from date of hire, must obtain a Firefighter I & II certificate recognized by the California State Fire Marshal's Office.
• Possession of a current Paramedic Certificate or current enrollment in a Paramedic program is highly desirable.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

The following are a representative sample of the KSAs necessary to perform essential duties of the position:

Knowledge of:  Modern firefighting methods and fire prevention practices; operation and care of fire apparatus; use and care of fire equipment, tools, devices, and facilities; emergency medical aid procedures; and the Uniform Fire Code and the procedures involved in fire prevention inspections.

Ability to:  Administer medical aid; work in confined spaces; work at heights greater than ten feet; work independently and as part of a team; observe safety principles and work in a safe manner; learn the operation of motorized firefighting equipment; learn a variety of methods and tasks related to firefighting and fire prevention; function effectively at emergency incidents; engage in moderate to strenuous physical activity and work long hours during emergency situations; participate in training drills; maintain physical fitness; learn the street system and physical layout of Lincoln; understand and follow oral and written instructions; establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, coworkers, supervisors, and the general public; operate communications equipment; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

Skill to:  Safely operate fire apparatus; safely operate fire equipment and tools; operate an office computer and a variety of word processing and software applications; demonstrate proficiency in the English language.
 

THE SELECTION PROCESS

The process may include a Firefighter Assessment, individual interview(s), panel interview(s) and/or other related components.  Only those candidates who have the best combination of qualifications in relation to the requirements and duties of the position will continue in the selection process. The candidate selected for the position will be required to complete a full background check, fingerprint check, medical exam, drug-screening and/or other related components.

** Please Note: Assessments/Interviews are tentatively scheduled for the week of October 27, 2025. **

Human Resources will make reasonable efforts in the examination process to accommodate persons with disabilities. Please advise Human Resources of any special needs a minimum of five days in advance of the selection process exam by calling (916) 434-3229 or emailing hr@lincolnca.gov. The City of Lincoln is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The information contained herein is subject to change and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.

Academy Graduates/Academy Participants/FTOs may be eligible to receive a hiring bonus of up to $10,000 disbursed in four equal phases: the first phase upon successful completion of the testing process and acceptance of a final offer of employment, and the last phase two years after completion of the probationary period as a Police Officer. 

POLICE OFFICER

(ACADEMY GRADUATE / ACADEMY PARTICIPANT/ FTO)
 
Candidates must have successfully completed a California POST approved Basic Police Academy with a valid California POST Academy Certificate; OR Currently attending a POST approved Basic Police Academy and/or has been accepted to a POST approved Basic Police Academy.

The City of Hayward is accepting application for Police Officer--Academy Graduates and Academy Participants. Police Officers at the City of Hayward perform a wide variety of law enforcement assignments including but not limited to: patrol, traffic control, criminal and juvenile investigation, and radio communication. These require operating a patrol car or motorcycle, arresting and citing violators of laws, writing reports, serving warrants, testifying in court and providing information to the public.

Those candidates who are currently participating in the Police Academy would be hired as a Police Officer Trainee ($5,837-$6,125). The Police Officer Trainee is hired into a civilian position for the period of time they are assigned to the police academy. Upon successful completion of training at the academy, Trainees will then be sworn in and appointed to the classification of Police Officer. Police Officer Trainee benefits are limited to those of a civilian employee.

THE DEPARTMENT

The Hayward Police Department is committed to enhancing the quality of life in the city by maintaining partnerships with its diverse community, together creating safe and cohesive neighborhoods. We pledge to safeguard the lives and property of the people served, and to reduce the incidence and fear of crime. We do this by treating all people fairly and equitably; and by being ethical, honest, responsive, and professional in the services we provide. We are accountable to one another and to the community.

The Hayward Police Department is comprised of a staff of 197 sworn personnel and 124 professional staff.  The Department supports a Community Policing philosophy and offers excellent promotional and special assignment opportunities.  The Patrol Division currently works 3-12.5 hour days and has weekends off at least six months out of the year. Patrol Officers enjoy a minimum of 9 training days per year.  Detectives who work investigations (SVU, Homicide, Gangs, Narcotics, etc.) receive incentive pay and participate in several task forces in Alameda County.  Officers have a wide variety of specialty assignments to choose from, such as School Resource Officer, K9, Special Duty Unit (street enforcement related to gangs), and Traffic (motors).

For more information about The Hayward Police Department, please visit www.joinhaywardpd.com.

DEFINITION 

Under general supervision, the Police Officer patrols the City's commercial, industrial, and residential districts; enforces laws and ordinances of the state of California and the city of Hayward, works closely with the community to preserve the peace and promote public safety; carefully documents own activities in written reports and statements; performs a wide variety of law enforcement assignments such as patrol, traffic control, criminal and juvenile investigation, radio communications, and administrative services; provides court testimony; investigates crimes such as burglary, robbery, assault, and disturbing the peace; assists firefighters and emergency medical technicians; and performs related duties as assigned.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS 

Work normally consists of routine police tasks performed according to Department rules and regulations. Incumbents receive general and special instructions and must be able to act without direct supervision. The absence of ongoing supervisory responsibilities distinguishes this class from the class of Police Sergeant.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED 

General supervision is provided by higher level officers.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

Provide occasional supervision to volunteers, reserve officers and professional support staff.

 

Essential Duties

Duties may include but are not limited to the following:

• Patrols the assigned area on foot or in patrol vehicle, makes routine security checks, inspects places of possible disorder and keeps alert to discover suspect circumstances or persons.
• Operates a patrol car, motorcycle, or other vehicle
• Responds to radio and telephone dispatches and appears at scene or disorder or crime.
• Resolves disputes, admonishes individuals, responds to accidents and provide emergency first aid.
• Arrests and cites violators of laws and ordinances.
• Investigates calls and complaints.
• Investigates traffic accidents.
• Prepares and documents cases; write reports; serve warrants and subpoenas; and testifies in court.
• Writes citations.
• Investigates conditions hazardous to life or property.
• Coordinates crime scene control; makes initial investigations of crimes and crime scenes.
• Assists Detectives and other investigators in crime investigation.
• Watches for suspicious cars, curfew violators and wanted persons.
• Operates two-way radio equipment.
• Takes fingerprints and photographs and processes evidence
• Assists in booking and jailing prisoners.
• Processes and transports prisoners.
• Directs traffic.
• Questions suspects and witnesses.
• Provides information, directions, other services and assistance to the public.
• Inspects patrol cars/motorcycles, equipment and weapons to ensure proper operation.
• Prepares for and participates in planned events; stands and directs traffic at collision scenes and demonstrations; controls crowds; and cooperates with City, State and other agencies to secure areas at special events or crime scenes.
• Participates in special details and assignments.
• May serve as a field training officer.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

JOB RELATED AND ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS 

Knowledge Of: 

• Basic law enforcement terminology and concepts.
• Public relations in law enforcement.
• Techniques for dealing with people of all socio-economic levels under hostile and emergency situations.
• Safe vehicle operation.
• Principles of first aid.

Ability to:

• Learn principles, practices, procedures, terminology and operation of equipment used in law enforcement and crime prevention and investigation.
• Read and interpret laws, ordinances, regulations and Department policies.
• Analyze situations and adopt a quick, effective and reasonable course of action.
• Drive a vehicle safely.
• Write clear, concise and accurate reports.
• Understand and follow oral and written directions.
• Observe and accurately recall places, names, faces, descriptive characteristics and details of incidents.
• Perform physical tasks inherent in the work of a Police Officer.
• Be courteous but firm with the public when needed
• React quickly and calmly under emergency and stressful situations.
• Make sound decisions.
• Develop skill in the use of a firearm.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
• Perform physically demanding tasks for extended periods of time.

 

Minimum Qualifications

 

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION 

Any combination equivalent to experience and education that could likely provide the required knowledge and abilities would be qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Experience:  One (1) year in a law enforcement agency within the last thirty-six (36) months and possession of a current Basic California P.O.S.T Certificate.       

OR 
Currently employed by a law enforcement agency and have successfully passed a field training officer (FTO) program, but have yet to complete probation.

OR
Successful completion of a California Basic P.O.S.T approved academy certificate. Obtained within the past eighteen (18) months from date of application is desirable.
 
Education:  High school diploma or equivalent. Possession of an Associate's degree or Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is desirable.
 
Necessary Special Qualifications: 

- Free of any felony convictions.

- A citizen of the United States or a permanent resident alien who is eligible for and has applied for citizenship (Government Code Para. 1031).

- Age, not less than 21 years at time of appointment.

- Vision in each eye, correctable to at least 20/30.

- Must pass a background investigation.

- Must meet all Department medical, physical and psychological standards.

Licenses and Certificates: Possession and maintenance of a valid Class C California Driver's License.