Unit Chief

California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE)

CAL FIRE is California’s fire department and resource management agency. The organization comprises nearly 12,000 permanent and seasonal employees whose mission is to serve and safeguard the people and protect the property and resources of California.

Pay Range: $11,093 – $14,360 per month
Location: Humboldt County, office in Fortuna, CA
Telework: In office (no telework available)
Employment Type: Permanent, Full‑time

• Lead a unit of firefighters and support personnel in daily operations, training, and emergency response.
• Maintain safety standards and equipment readiness, including respiratory protection equipment (SCBA).
• Coordinate with other agencies and department leadership for incident management.
• Oversee administrative tasks such as scheduling, budgeting, and resource allocation.
• Refer to the Duty Statement for a detailed list of duties.

• Medical clearance required prior to hire and annually for fit‑testing respirators.
• Must wear respiratory protection equipment (SCBA) as mandated by Cal/OSHA.
• Valid driver’s license of the appropriate class issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Submit a complete application package by the Final Filing Date of 2/1/2026.

• Electronic applications:
  Cal Career Account at
• Hard‑copy applications: send to the address below.
• Drop‑off: 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM at the Pennation address.
• Required documents:
  • STD 678 or electronic state employment application.
  • Resume.
  • Authorization to Release Information Form (PO‑299).
  • Front and back of valid driver’s license.
• Mailing address:
  • Department of Forestry & Fire Protection
    CAL FIRE Northern Region Hiring
    Attn: HUU Unit Chief
    135 Ridgway Avenue
    Santa Rosa, CA 95401

The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability, the exercise of the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.

It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug‑free workplace. All applicants will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective.

Applicants requiring accommodations for the interview process should request them at the time of interview scheduling. EEO contact information is available on the job posting.

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