The "WAL-MART" of fire departments - Fire Captain CAL Fire Employee Review

2.0
Oct 19, 2014
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

After 20 years I am still looking.

Cons

Minimal pay for the amount of dedication, labor and expectations.

Explore other reviews about CAL Fire

5.0
Oct 27, 2025
Anonymous temporary employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Great environment, opportunities for real-world experience

Cons

No cons come to mind

3.0
Apr 13, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Good benefits. Flexible work location, can transfer most anywhere in the state. Low barrier to entry.

Cons

The department is moving towards making everyone into a fuels reduction crew. Whereas ordinarily we would spend our time training, exercising, and maintaining our fire station and equipment we now work all day in menial labor. The assumption that our 24 hour shift consists of a 10 hour duty day and 14 hours of standby at the fire station seems to be gone now. Instead we are committed to fuels reduction work for our 10 hours and expected to train, exercise, and finish administrative duties in the evening or at night.

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