Felton Fire Protection District

Serving the San Lorenzo Valley since 1935

The Felton Fire Protection District (FFPD) is seeking dedicated, community-minded leaders to join our team in the position of Fire Captain. Nestled in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains, FFPD is an “all-risk” agency protecting the Felton community and approximately 1.7 million annual visitors.

The Future of Felton Fire: The District is currently restructuring to a combination full-time fire service model. This lateral recruitment represents the first of several positions to be posted over the next year as we grow to meet the needs of the San Lorenzo Valley.

The Mission

Consistent with our core values, our Captains are expected to lead with integrity, compassion, and resilience. You will serve as a mentor to both our volunteer and career staff and act as a visible face of safety for our residents.

Key Responsibilities

• Command & Control: Direct engine companies in structural and wildland firefighting, technical rescues, EMS response, and evolving emergency incidents.
• Station Management: Oversee daily operations, maintenance of the station, apparatus, equipment, and PPE to ensure constant mission readiness.
• Training & Mentorship: Lead or participate in company evolutions and specialized training sessions to maintain a high standard of proficiency.
• Community Involvement: Represent the District at local events and take independent action to enhance individual and community safety.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Experience: Strong background in fire suppression and EMS. Prior supervisory experience is required.
• Minimum Required Certifications at time of appointment:
  • High school diploma or equivalent (Associate’s degree in Fire Science preferred) 
  • Valid California Drivers License 
  • California State Fire Marshal (CSFM) or ProBoard Firefighter 1
  • ICS 200
  • Successful completion of at least one CSFM Company Officer class  2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E or Instructor 1
  • EMT or PSFA  (EMR or PSFA must attain a NREMT within 18 months of hire)   
  • Documented experience driving, pumping and operating fire apparatus 
  • Minimum five (5) years of documented progressive responsibility with a local, state or governmental agency 
• Prior supervisory or acting officer experience is highly desirable    –

• Pre-hire Requirements: Must pass a comprehensive background check (Live Scan) and an NFPA medical evaluation.

• Minimum Required Certifications at Completion of Probationary Period:
  • ICS 300
  • Driver Operator 1A and 1B 
  • HazMat IC
  • CSFM Company Officer Certificate or ProBoard or  National Fire Academy Officer 1 and 2 
  • Instructor 1

Compensation & Shift Structure

• Salary: $100,834 – $110,429 (Based on the proposed 2026 District Pay Scale, DOE).
• Benefits: District-paid vacation and sick leave; medical contribution stipend; dental and vision coverage.
• Retirement: 457B plan with up to a 10% employer contribution match.

• Work-Life: Full-time shift employees follow a 48/96 shift format. Administrative employees work a 4/10 shift schedule. Willingness to work weekends and holidays is required.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must submit a Cover Letter, Resume, and District Application to the Fire Chief.

• Email: [email protected]
• In-Person: 131 Kirby Street, Felton, CA 95018
• Selection Process: Includes an Oral Interview, Background Screening, Medical Exam, and a Probationary Period.
• This is a time-sensitive appointment, and applicants will be interviewed in the order received.  Applications will be accepted continuously until positions are filled. Once filled, an eligibility list will be established for future anticipated hires. 

         The Felton Fire Protection District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

For more information, please view the full job description (PDF).