Join KCFD
We have both full-time and seasonal opportunities. Take a look at the current positions we have.
Fire Recruit Assistance Program
Join the FRAP and start on your path to becoming a firefighter today!
The Kern County Fire Department is steadfast in its mission to strengthen our local communities, employing our resources and expertise to provide them with critical support.
To accomplish this, we have established the Fire Recruit Assistance Program (FRAP), a platform designed to support individuals pursuing a career in fire services. FRAP does not only benefit the participants, but it also has positive impacts on their families and the wider community. The program is universally accessible, and the greater the individual’s needs, the more substantial our assistance.
FRAP provides assistance through three channels:
1) Providing educational workshops.
2) Offering mentorship from experienced professionals.
3) Establishing connections with organizations capable of providing transportation or financial aid.
Consider, for instance, Isabella. She attends a FRAP workshop, which imparts knowledge on the enrollment process for the Firefighter 1 Academy. This education elevates her confidence, but she questions her physical preparedness. With the aid of a mentor, she obtains guidance, enhancing her physical fitness level. Despite this, she encounters a challenge – the CPAT testing center is a considerable distance away, and she doesn’t own a car. No worries!
Using its expansive network, FRAP arranges rideshare for Isabella and others, ensuring they can access free transportation to the CPAT testing center. Consequently, Isabella continues her journey in the fire service profession.
Explorer Program
Your guide to becoming an Explorer with the Kern County Fire Department
Join the KCFD Explorer Program
The Explorer Program is made up of dedicated men and women who are interested in pursuing a career in the fire service.
Applications are accepted year-round. Names are placed on a waiting list.
Explorers meet twice a month (1st and 3rd Saturday of each month for a drill that usually lasts eight hours. Explorers are trained in the same manner as regular firefighters. Physical Fitness training every Wednesday mandatory.
All meetings will require attendance.
One unexcused absence will be cause for:
– Suspension
– Dismissal from the program
Explorers will wear the department approved uniform purchased by the explorer at his/her expense.
Approximately $500.00
The main goal is to train young men and women in the area of the fire service and to assist them in pursuing goals to become a career firefighter. Explorers will experience positive leadership from adult and youth leaders and be given the opportunities to take on leadership roles. The Explorer shall have a chance to learn and grow in a supportive, caring and fun environment.
– Age Requirement: 15-19 years
– Resident of Kern County
– Maintain a “B” grade average
– Parent/Guardian written approval
– Good Health
– No Tattoos
– No Body Piercing
Explorers will be required to attend public safety events on a monthly basis. Events include the Kern County Fair, Parades, Open Houses at Fire Stations, etc.
Note: These events will take the place of meetings if the event is on the 1st or 3rd Saturday of the month.
Once the Explorer is “Certified”, the Explorer is allowed to ride along with firefighters, drill and observe on emergency scenes.
The certification process includes hands-on testing and a written test.
Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
CERT Volunteers are encouraged to use this time to ensure their families safety and complete or renew their online training. California Volunteers has provided these flyers for volunteers and ways we can help.
