Employment Opportunities
***Internal Applicants Only***
CFPD is currently accepting applications for Firefighter-EMT/Operator. The application deadline is January 9th, 2026.
FIREFIGHTER–EMT / OPERATOR
Wage Range: $4,635.41 – $5,633.85 per month
($17.41 – $21.26 per hour)
Schedule: 48-hour shift on duty with 96 hours off duty
BENEFITS
- California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS)
- Section 125 Benefit Plan: up to $1,500 per month (based on length of service) toward employee health benefits
- Optional participation in a deferred compensation program
- Vacation accrual: 168 to 336 hours annually, depending on length of service
- Sick leave accrual: 11.08 hours every 14-day pay period
- 108 hours paid annually in lieu of all holidays
- District-provided uniforms
DISTRICT DESCRIPTION
The Copperopolis Fire Protection District is an all-risk emergency services agency primarily serving the communities of Copperopolis, Lake Tulloch, Bar XX, Circle XX, and Diamond XX subdivisions in Calaveras County. The District covers approximately 187 square miles in the Sierra Foothills. The primary administrative station is located in the town of Copperopolis.
SUMMARY JOB DESCRIPTION
Under minimal supervision, the Firefighter–EMT responds promptly and efficiently to emergency and non-emergency medical calls, performing all phases of rescue, emergency medical, and fire suppression operations. This position safely uses firefighting, rescue tools, equipment, and apparatus, and communicates effectively with bystanders and patients in difficult situations to obtain medical histories and event information.
In addition to EMT responsibilities, the Firefighter will respond to wildland and structure fires, hazardous materials incidents, rescue incidents, and other public service requests. Duties include conducting public education sessions related to fire and emergency safety practices (including CPR and EMS instruction); operating emergency apparatus including District-operated Type 1 and Type 3 fire engines, ALS ambulance, and utility vehicles; performing fire station and grounds maintenance; participating in drills, training, and physical fitness programs; maintaining, testing, and operating tools and equipment; attending job-related instructional sessions; participating in public relations and fire prevention activities; preparing reports; assisting with volunteer training; and performing related duties as assigned.
This position also participates in company-level fire prevention, public education, and fire inspection activities and may be responsible for specific tasks or programs as assigned by the Fire Chief.
OPPORTUNITY
The District is establishing an eligibility list for three (3) Firefighter–EMT/Operator positions.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
- High School diploma or GED equivalent
- CSFM Firefighter I certification
- Current NREMT-1 or California EMT certification and CPR
- If hired as a Firefighter/Paramedic, must maintain all paramedic position requirements
- California Class C Driver’s License (Firefighter Endorsement or Class B required within first year)
- ICS 100 and ICS 200
- Hazardous Materials First Responder – Operations
- Rope Rescue Awareness/Operations or historical equivalent (within first year)
- Vehicle Extrication certification (within first year)
- Firefighter Survival (within first year)
- Confined Space certification
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
- CSFM Firefighter II
- California Paramedic License
- Driver Operator 1A and/or 1B
- ICS 300
- Associate’s Degree or higher in Fire Technology, Public Administration, or a related field
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
- Knowledge of modern structural and wildland fire suppression, emergency medical care, rescue, and fire prevention methods
- Ability to think clearly, act quickly, and take reasonable and effective action under emergency conditions
- Ability to lead, supervise, maintain discipline, promote harmony, and work cooperatively with others
- Ability to prepare clear and concise incident reports
- Ability to interact professionally with the public and promote a positive public image
- Knowledge and experience in preparing and delivering training classes, drills, and related activities
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships
- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
APPLICATION PROCESS
Applications may be obtained at the Copperopolis Fire Protection District Administrative Office, 370 Main Street, Copperopolis, or online at CopperopolisFire.gov.
Applicants must submit:
- Completed District application
- Résumé
- Cover letter
- Proof of minimum qualifications
Application Deadline: January 9th, 2026
Completed application packets must be delivered to:
Copperopolis Fire Protection District
P.O. Box 131
Copperopolis, CA 95228
Important Notices:
- Postmarks will not be accepted.
- Applications must be delivered to Fire Station #1 Administrative Office at 370 Main Street, Copperopolis.
- Do not send mail through the United States Postal Service to the street address; it will be returned as undeliverable.
- No applications, résumés, cover letters, or proof of qualifications will be accepted after the filing deadline.
- Personal delivery of application packets is strongly recommended.
TESTING PROCESS
Applicants selected to participate will be notified via email or USPS with additional details regarding dates and times.
Tentative Oral Interview and Skills Assessment Date: Week of January 12th-15th, 2026
The testing process includes:
- Résumé review
- Oral interview
- Firefighter agility test
- Firefighter skills test
- EMT skills assessment
Applicants must successfully pass all components to advance in the process.
HIRING PROCESS
Following completion of testing, applicants will receive written notice of eligibility or ineligibility via email. Eligible candidates will be placed on an eligibility list valid for one (1) year from the date established, with an option to extend for an additional year.
The District will select candidates from the eligibility list for appointment. Following a conditional offer of employment, candidates must successfully complete a drug test, medical examination, background investigation, and DMV record check. Candidates must also complete all required employment paperwork and provide proof of legal authorization to work in the United States.
The District will determine the official start date. The tentative hire date is January 21st, 2026. New hires will begin in a training capacity for approximately 30 days. Upon successful completion, the employee will be assigned to an at-will position and enter an 18-month probationary period, beginning on the first reportable day of work.