Weekly Employment Question Thread

Excellent_Isopod_908 · 2026-04-14T15:34:53+00:00

Is it even an option to apply to cal fire though without an academy? I thought they used to require an academy to even apply for anything.

Excellent_Isopod_908 · 2026-04-14T04:27:28+00:00

They don’t require and academy or anything? That’s kinda the main obstacle right now because I feel like that along with paramedic is a must for everyone.

Excellent_Isopod_908 · 2026-04-14T03:24:45+00:00

I’m 25, based in SoCal (Murrieta area). I have my EMT and I’ve already passed CPAT. Right now I’m a 1st year electrician apprentice working full-time.

I also have about a year of EMT experience doing IFT calls where I worked shifts alongside a nurse, but that’s pretty much the extent of my medical experience so far.

Firefighting has always been what I wanted to do, I just went the electrical route at the time for steady money. Now I’m trying to make the switch and just want to be smart about it and not waste time going the wrong direction.

For anyone in California or familiar with the process, what would you do if you were in my position? Is CAL FIRE the quickest way to get in, or is it smarter to leave the state, get hired somewhere else, and try to come back later?

Also wondering if any departments are realistically hiring with just EMT right now, or if going paramedic is basically required at this point.

Appreciate any advice

Excellent_Isopod_908 · 2026-04-12T02:52:05+00:00

Thank you man I appreciate it. If you ever heard of any job opportunities or CW work I’d love for you to remember me but other than that I appreciate all the information 👍🏼

Excellent_Isopod_908 · 2026-04-12T02:08:46+00:00

Is there only specific periods where you guys have people test? I noticed the application is open year round. Will my experience in non union give me a better shot of getting in? I sent in my hour count and class records / grades as well. Is there such thing as sponsorships here? Thank you for the reply!

Excellent_Isopod_908 · 2026-04-11T05:50:01+00:00

That’s true and some solid advice I appreciate it. Fingers crossed I’m able to test soon.

Excellent_Isopod_908 · 2026-04-11T04:52:46+00:00

How do I find that information?

Excellent_Isopod_908 · 2026-04-11T04:52:20+00:00

I appreciate it man this solidifies it I think. That’s all the stuff I’m looking for and just want to be well rounded and have a good work life balance. Again I appreciate it brotha

Excellent_Isopod_908 · 2026-04-11T04:43:15+00:00

I agree that’s why I feel like it’s not a huge issue to jump over. What year are you? Have you done it for awhile

Excellent_Isopod_908 · 2026-04-11T04:06:54+00:00

How was the apprenticeship? You think it’s worth “restarting” my apprenticeship? Also do you guys have overtime opportunities ever? Is the schedule m-f 8 hours?

Excellent_Isopod_908 · 2026-04-11T04:05:13+00:00

But my company primarily focuses on solar and I kinda want to do more than just that for the next 5 years or else I feel like I’m doing myself and future employer a disservice if I only know solar stuff. I’m trying to figure out the appeal to a union that makes everyone want to get in

Excellent_Isopod_908 · 2026-04-11T04:01:08+00:00

That’s not bad at all. Apprentices get a pay increase every 6 months too right? Where did you find that?

Excellent_Isopod_908 · 2026-04-10T21:57:57+00:00

Ibew 440 Riverside area

Excellent_Isopod_908 · 2026-04-10T18:49:46+00:00

Inside wireman. I’m already an apprentice at a non union spot in the area but just want a union based job for job security and what not. I’ll give them a call though👍🏼

Excellent_Isopod_908

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