Fire Technology Program

The Mt. SAC Fire Technology Department is dedicated to the instruction and support of the careers of potential fire service professionals. Through its courses and program, the Fire Technology Department works to enhance the ability of fire and emergency services, as well as allied professionals, to deal more effectively with fire and related emergencies. Established in 1988, the Mt. SAC Fire Program has established a reputation and tradition that has gained the trust of fire departments throughout California.

Working in the Fire Service Profession

A career in the fire service is both challenging and rewarding. Fire suppression is only one of a wide variety of duties performed by the firefighters. In fact, approximately 85% of all fire departments responses are to emergency medical calls. Other typical assignments may include fire prevention education, commercial and residential fire inspections, community outreach and service, post-fire salvage and cleanup, and equipment maintenance.

General Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

18 years of age
Valid California Driver’s License
Clean driving record
HS diploma or GED

Physical Requirements:

Visual acuity of 20/70 uncorrected in each eye
20/25 correctable vision in both eyes
Normal range depth perception
Ability to identify primary colors
Normal hearing range
Weight proportioned to height
Excellent physical condition

Personal Attributes:

Good judgment
Good communications skills
Demonstrate mechanical aptitude & basic math skills
Ability to understand and learn firefighting material
Ability to face hazardous & life threatening incidents
Possess coping skills for managing various situations
Must be a team player
Ability to get along with a variety of people in close quarters
Ability to follow orders
Ability to work in a paramilitary organization

Applying for a position

Most jurisdictions will distribute a flier or an announcement when they have an opening. To get specific information about a particular agency, contact their Human Resources office. Most selection processes for entry-level firefighters consist of an application screening, a written exam, a physical ability test, and one or more oral interviews.

The hiring process for entry-level firefighters is extremely competitive. It is not uncommon for a department to have as many as 5,000 applicants for as few as three or four job openings. However, this situation may not apply to other positions such as fire inspector, hazardous materials specialist, arson investigator, public information officer, and community service representative.

What you can do to prepare now

Mt. SAC’s Fire Technology Department can prepare you for a rewarding career in fire service. Becoming a firefighter often takes a great deal of long-term preparation, self-motivation, and commitment. While there is no guarantee that these qualifications will result in your selection as an entry-level firefighter, experience has shown that they tend to distinguish outstanding candidates and validate their interest in the profession.

For additional Information, please contact us at (909) 274-5145 or via email at firetechnology@mtsac.edu.