Fire Department · Combination
Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District
Mather, CA · Sacramento County
7th largest in California
Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District (Metro Fire) operates as the 7th largest fire agency in California, serving a population exceeding 720,000 within a 359 square mile area. Formed through the merger of 16 smaller fire departments, with the last significant consolidation in 2000, Metro Fire is a special district governed by an elected Board of Directors.
The district is structured into three main branches: Operations, Administration, and Support Services, encompassing a wide range of functions from emergency response and medical services to human resources and fleet maintenance. On any given day, approximately 155 personnel are on duty, managed by Battalion Chiefs and overseen by an Assistant Chief. Metro Fire is committed to transparency and public trust through open communication and data sharing.
Metro Fire offers diverse career opportunities beyond firefighting, including roles in IT, accounting, and administration. To pursue a career as a firefighter, prospective candidates are encouraged to gain relevant experience, such as obtaining EMT or Paramedic certification. The department emphasizes the importance of medical emergency response, making EMS training a requirement for all personnel.
Applications for open positions are managed through NeoGov, and interested individuals can subscribe to job alerts on the "Job Descriptions" page to be notified when positions become available. The department also provides resources for career exploration, including a mentor program to connect with current employees.
Requirements
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification
The Metro Fire Recruit Academy is a California State Fire Marshal Accredited Firefighter I Academy that instructs recruits in essential and advanced fireground tasks, rescue operations, fire prevention, basic and advanced life support, and other mandated skills. The program includes hundreds of hours of classroom and practical training.
What are the minimum requirements to apply to be a firefighter with Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District?
A minimum requirement to apply to be a firefighter with Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District is to have obtained your Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification. Obtaining your Paramedic license is recommended to increase your odds of being hired.
How can I be notified when firefighter positions are available at Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District?
To receive a notification when a job you are interested in becomes available, you can visit the "Job Descriptions" page on the Metro Fire website, find the job description, and click the "Subscribe" link to fill out a Job Interest Card.
Does Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District have its own Fire Academy?
Yes, Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District has its own Recruit Academy, which is a California State Fire Marshal Accredited Firefighter I Academy. It provides extensive training in fireground tasks, rescue operations, life support, and other mandated skills.
What kind of medical training is required for firefighters at Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District?
Medical emergencies are the most common calls for service, therefore, EMS training is a requirement for all EMTs, Paramedics, and Firefighters. Obtaining your EMT certification is a minimum requirement, and a Paramedic license is recommended.
Can I connect with a current employee at Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District to learn more about a career?
Yes, you can fill out a Mentor Request Form on the Metro Fire website. They will connect you with a member of their Mentor Team or someone working in the position you are interested in to discuss career opportunities.