Long hours, away from home most of the summer - FF I CAL Fire Employee Review

4.0
Jan 21, 2024
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Great people to work with, great opportunities to grow, diverse department, pay isn’t too bad.

Cons

Can be gone Away from home during fire season for weeks on end depending on severity on fire, forced OT, 72 hour schedule (3 on 4 off) other departments are 2 on 4 off..

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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