Job description
About the District In October 1962, fire protection became the second service provided for the Running Springs community by the District at a local level. Until that time, fire protection for the area had been provided by an all-volunteer fire department comprised of a group of concerned citizens that began in 1951. Running Springs is a mountain community in San Bernardino County, serving as a gateway to Big Bear, known for year-round outdoor recreation like skiing/snowboarding at Snow Valley, mountain biking at Rim Nordic (also cross-country skiing), and numerous hiking trails (Pacific Crest Trail runs through). About the Department The Department includes two Fire Stations, two Type 1 Fire Engines, one Brush Engine, one Squad, three Ambulances, two snow cats and a REMS Type 1 UTV with snow tracks. Fulltime RSFD personnel includes two Chief Officers, two Captain/Paramedics, one Engineer/Paramedic, two Firefighter Paramedics, three Limited Term Firefighters, and 8 part time Paid Call Firefighters. RSFD also has a Cooperative Agreement with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire) which staffs out of the Running Springs Fire Station 51. The ambulance service boundary includes Running Springs, Smiley Park, Arrowbear, Green Valley Lake, Snow Valley and along State Highway 18 to Lake View Point. The ambulance coverage also includes State Highway 330 to City Creek Ranger Station. The Position This recruitment is to fill one current vacancy, as well as establish an eligibility list for up to two years for any future vacancies. The successful candidate will be hired into a full-time benefitted 56-hour week position. Under supervision, the successful candidate will participate in firefighting and fire prevention activities in protecting life, the environment, and property; respond to medical, and rescue-related emergencies; respond to hazardous material incidents; respond to automatic and mutual aid incidents; assist in the maintenance and repair of fire stations, fire-fighting apparatus and equipment; participate in related training and manipulative drills; and perform related duties as required. Desirable Qualifications Knowledge of basic firefighting functions and techniques. The ability to learn technical firefighting principles and techniques, and locations of major target hazards; learn to drive fire apparatus safely, and in accordance with traffic laws and ordinances. The ability to keep records and prepare reports; ability to calculate drug dosages and hydraulic equations, use computers and related software; understand and carry out verbal and written directions; think and act quickly and safely in emergency situations; and maintain cooperative work and public relationships. HazMat First Responder-Operational (FRO), Confined Space Operations, LARRO and Rescue Systems I certifications are also desired. Special Requirements
- Must submit an RSFD employment application and copies of required certifications by the deadline.
- Must possess a valid California EMT-P license and the ability to obtain accreditation in ICEMA region or have completed didactic at a California State accredited Paramedic program.
- Equivalent to graduation from high school.
- Firefighter I Academy certificate of completion or CSFM Firefighter I certification at time of appointment
- Current EMT-Paramedic certification at time of appointment, with the ability to obtain and maintain ICEMA Paramedic Accreditation within 30 days of appointment
Benefits
- Retirement: California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS). Public Employees Retirement System 2.7% at 57; Classic PERS Members: 3% @ 50.
- Insurance: The Department has a cafeteria-style health benefits program through CalPERS.
- Vacation Leave: 112 per year, increased based on length of service.
- 12 Paid 24 hour Holidays, that can be taken as time off or cashed out each year.
- Sick Leave: 144 Hours accrued per year
Application Process and Deadline Individuals can obtain the application at the Department website https://www.runningspringsfire.org/employment or in person at 31250 Hilltop Blvd., Running Springs, CA 92382. Applications must be returned via email at d.willemse@runningspringsfd.org by October 30th, 2026 at 1700 Hrs. After October 30th, 2026 the position will be a continuous recruitment with a test date TBD. Selection Guidelines All applications received will be reviewed for completeness and job-related qualifications with those possessing the minimum qualifications being invited to participate in the testing process. Written test on November 5th. Oral Interviews and Assessment Center anticipated the end of November. Fire Chief's interview: Top candidates will be notified of the exact date and time by invitation.
Benefits
Current Local 5308 MOU available upon request.