Volunteer / Reserve

Even though the City of Santa Clara maintains a full-time, professional Fire Department, the volunteer force, which was created in 1854, has been retained as a viable part of the City's fire fighting and emergency response force.

The volunteer force comprises up to 75 individuals, organized into six companies. These volunteers respond directly to incidents in their own cars. They work alongside the paid firefighters at fires, and at other emergency responses including disasters.

Why Volunteer?
If you are interested in a career in the fire service, the Santa Clara Fire Department Volunteer/Reserves provides training and on-the-job experience that may be the key difference between yourself and other potential firefighter candidates. In a normal month, a volunteer can receive up to 40 hours of fire service training and numerous hours of actual incident experience. The volunteers have high standards and the requirements are strictly enforced.

Being a Volunteer Reserve is also an opportunity for you to participate in our community. Volunteers learn about the various areas of the city and become familiar with your City's government. If you are new to the area and interested in fire fighting, then the Volunteer/Reserves can be your key to the community.

Requirements To Be A Volunteer

• Minimum of 18 years of age
• US Citizen or permanent resident alien eligible for citizenship
• Legal resident of Santa Clara
• In good health, and able to pass physical ability examination
• Valid drivers license
• Provide proof of vehicle insurance
• Be able to meet the Personal Appearance and Grooming Standard Policy

How To Apply
Applications can be picked up at, and submitted to, the Fire Department headquarters, 777 Benton St., Santa Clara, or online. Indicate Volunteer/Reserve for position applied for, and applications are accepted throughout the year. The testing process is conducted during May and October; applications should be submitted by the end of April and September for those examinations. The testing process includes a physical ability exam, an oral exam, and a background evaluation.

[ More Links ]
Volunteer Firefighter Information Brochure (PDF)
Volunteer Firefighting is Satisfying Way to Give Back to the Community

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