The Riverside County Fire Department Reserve Program offers hands-on training and realworld experience through a variety of emergency response and support roles, giving members the opportunity to serve their community while building valuable skills
FIRE SUPPRESSION TEAMS
ABOUT THE POSITION
As a Reserve Firefighter, you will assist the Riverside County Fire Department in firefighting activities and the provision of Emergency Medical Services (EMS). You will respond to alarms as members of fire crews to protect life and property using various fire apparatus, equipment, tools, and devices, while ensuring their proper use and maintenance. You will be trained as an Emergency Medical Technician, First Responder or Emergency Medical Responder (EMR). You will administer varying degrees of emergency medical aid to injured people under extreme conditions involving trauma, illness, and personal tragedy.
You will be utilized in various functions as a Reserve Firefighter, such as additional staffing on engines, squads, or specialized equipment. You may be assigned other tasks as deemed appropriate by the Department.
QUALIFICATIONS
- At least 18 years old at time of application
- Completion of high school or equivalent
- Valid California Driver's License
DESIREABLE QUALIFICATIONS:
- Completion from a State of California approved Fire Academy
- Possession of an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or higher from the State of California
TIME COMMITMENT
Reserve Firefighter duty time is flexible to meet individual needs. Reserve Firefighters are required to commit a minimum of 36 hours per month to station coverage with an additional 4 hours per month of training. Upon enrollment, additional required training is provided at no cost
APPLICATION & ONBOARDING PROCESS
- Fill out online application form
- Complete free online course prerequisites and submit certificates of completion
- Attend program orientation
- Submit all personnel forms
- Complete background check and physical
- Undergo SCBA fit testing
- Receive uniform and PPE gear (at no cost to you)
- Attend required in-person academy classes
- Upon completion of academy, you will receive your station assignment
ABOUT THE POSITION
As a Reserve Water Tender Operator, you will assist the Department in providing critical water supply support during firefighting operations and emergency incidents. You will operate and maintain water tenders and related equipment to deliver water to fire engines, crews, and remote locations where hydrants or fixed water sources are unavailable.
You will be trained in safe vehicle operation, water shuttle procedures, and fireground support techniques to ensure effective and efficient response. You will work closely with fire suppression personnel to support tactical operations, assist with refilling apparatus, and ensure reliable water access under challenging conditions.
QUALIFICATIONS
- At least 18 years old at time of application
- Completion of high school or equivalent
- Valid California Driver's License appropriate for the class of vehicle (may be a combination of Class "C" and full commercial Class "B" or Firefighter Endorsement
DESIREABLE QUALIFICATIONS:
- Experience operating large vehicles or heavy equipment, preferably in an emergency or public safety setting.
- Knowledge of water delivery systems, pump operations, and basic fireground support procedures.
TIME COMMITMENT
Reserve Water Tender Operator duty time is flexible to meet individual needs. Reserve Water Tender Operators are required to commit a minimum of 36 hours per month with an additional 4 hours per month of training/meetings. Upon enrollment, additional required training is provided at no cost.
APPLICATION & ONBOARDING PROCESS
- Fill out online application form
- Complete free online course prerequisites and submit certificates of completion
- Attend program orientation
- Submit all personnel forms
- Complete background check and physical
- Undergo SCBA fit testing
- Receive uniform and PPE gear (at no cost to you)
FIRE SUPPORT TEAM
ABOUT THE POSITION
As a Reserve Photographer, you will assist the department in capturing and documenting a wide range of activities, including emergency incidents, training exercises, community events, and public education programs. You will support the department’s mission of transparency, community engagement, and historical recordkeeping.
You will be trained in fireground safety, emergency incident scene awareness, and department communication protocols to ensure safe operations while working alongside fire personnel. You will document fire department operations and community events through photography and videography, producing highquality imagery for internal use, media releases, and public outreach.
QUALIFICATIONS
- At least 18 years old at time of application
- Completion of high school or equivalent
- Valid California Driver's License
DESIREABLE QUALIFICATIONS:
- Experience in photography or videography, preferably in fast-paced or dynamic environments (e.g., public safety, journalism, or event coverage).
- Working knowledge of professional photography equipment, including DSLR or mirrorless cameras, lenses, and lighting.
TIME COMMITMENT
Reserve Photographer duty time is flexible to meet individual needs. Reserve Photographers are required to commit a minimum of 36 hours per month with an additional 4 hours per month of training/meetings. Upon enrollment, additional required training is provided at no cost.
APPLICATION & ONBOARDING PROCESS
- Fill out online application form
- Complete free online course prerequisites and submit certificates of completion
- Attend program orientation
- Submit all personnel forms
- Complete background check and physical
- Receive uniform and PPE gear (at no cost to you)
ABOUT THE POSITION
As a Reserve MEOC Technician, you will assist the Department in providing specialized mobile support during emergency and non-emergency incidents to enhance the department’s ability to serve the citizens of Riverside County. You will respond as part of MEOC team to planned and unplanned events, supporting on-scene operations, communications, and coordination efforts.
You will be trained in department protocols, MEOC operations, and incident support procedures to ensure safe, effective, and reliable assistance during field deployments. You will work collaboratively with department personnel and partner agencies to help establish command, provide logistical support, and maintain situational awareness during incidents and large-scale events.
QUALIFICATIONS
- At least 18 years old at time of application
- Completion of high school or equivalent
- Valid California Driver's License appropriate for the class of vehicle (may be a combination of Class "C" and full commercial Class "B" or Firefighter Endorsement
DESIREABLE QUALIFICATIONS:
- Experience in emergency services, communications, logistics, or incident support operations.
- Familiarity with mobile command post operations, radio systems, and field communications equipment. Ability to operate and troubleshoot basic computer systems, networking equipment, and mobile technology used during incidents.
TIME COMMITMENT
Reserve MEOC Technician duty time is flexible to meet individual needs. Reserve MEOC’s are required to commit a minimum of 36 hours per month with an additional 4 hours per month of training/meetings. Upon enrollment, additional required training is provided at no cost.
APPLICATION & ONBOARDING PROCESS
- Fill out online application form
- Complete free online course prerequisites and submit certificates of completion
- Attend program orientation
- Submit all personnel forms
- Complete background check and physical
- Receive uniform (at no cost to you)
ABOUT THE POSITION
As a Reserve Chaplain, you will assist the Department in providing spiritual and emotional support to department personnel, their families, and members of the community during time of crisis, loss, or need. You will respond to both emergency and non-emergency situations, offering comfort, guidance, and care during critical incidents, memorial services, and family or hospital visitations.
You will be trained in department protocols, crisis intervention, and fire service culture to ensure compassionate and appropriate support in a variety of settings. You will work collaboratively with the department’s Peer Support Team to promote wellness and resilience throughout the organization. You will be utilized in various functions as a Reserve Chaplain, such as participating in memorial or ceremonial services, and supporting families during challenging times.
QUALIFICATIONS
- At least 18 years old at time of application
- Completion of high school or equivalent
- Valid California Driver's License
DESIREABLE QUALIFICATIONS:
- Experience providing spiritual care, counseling, or emotional support in crisis or emergency situations.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to offer comfort and maintain confidentiality.
- Knowledge of fire service culture and the unique stressors faced by first responders and their families.
TIME COMMITMENT
Reserve Chaplain duty time is flexible to meet individual needs. Reserve Chaplains are required to commit a minimum of 36 hours per month with an additional 4 hours per month of training/meetings. Upon enrollment, additional required training is provided at no cost.
APPLICATION & ONBOARDING PROCESS
- Fill out online application form
- Complete free online course prerequisites and submit certificates of completion
- Attend program orientation
- Submit all personnel forms
- Complete background check and physical
- Receive uniform (at no cost to you)
ABOUT THE POSITION
As a Reserve Peer Support Specialist, you will assist the Department in promoting the emotional wellness and resilience of its personnel. You will provide compassionate support, active listening, and peer connection to department and community members facing personal, professional, or critical incident-related stress.
You will be trained in peer support principles, stress management, and crisis response to help foster a culture of care and understanding within the fire service. You will work collaboratively with fellow peer supporters to ensure members receive timely resources and assistance when needed. You will be utilized in various functions as a Reserve Peer Support Specialist, such as participating in station visits, wellness outreach efforts, and responding to high stress incidents.
QUALIFICATIONS
- At least 18 years old at time of application
- Completion of high school or equivalent
- Valid California Driver's License
DESIREABLE QUALIFICATIONS:
- Experience or training in peer support, counseling, crisis intervention, or mental health awareness.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust and maintain confidentiality.
- Certification in Peer Support, Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM), or a related behavioral health program.
TIME COMMITMENT
Reserve Peer Support Specialist duty time is flexible to meet individual needs. Reserve Peer Support team members are required to commit a minimum of 36 hours per month with an additional 4 hours per month of training/meetings. Upon enrollment, additional required training is provided at no cost.
APPLICATION & ONBOARDING PROCESS
- Fill out online application form
- Complete free online course prerequisites and submit certificates of completion
- Attend program orientation
- Submit all personnel forms
- Complete background check and physical
- Receive uniform (at no cost to you)
ABOUT THE POSITION
As a Reserve K9 Team Member, you and your canine will assist the department in providing emotional support and peer connection to personnel and community members through the presence and engagement of your specially trained dog. You will partner with your canine to foster wellness, boost morale, and offer comfort to those impacted by stress, trauma, or critical incidents.
You will be trained in departmental protocols, peer support principles, and canine handling to ensure safe and effective interactions in a variety of settings, including fire stations, community events, and post-incident environments.
You will be utilized in various functions as a Reserve K9 Team Member, such as visiting fire stations, attending special events, and providing comfort during times of need.
QUALIFICATIONS
- At least 18 years old at time of application
- Completion of high school or equivalent
- Valid California Driver's License
- Ownership of registered therapy dog from accredited organization
TIME COMMITMENT
Reserve K9 team member duty time is flexible to meet individual needs. Members of the K9 team are required to commit a minimum of 36 hours per month with an additional 4 hours per month of training/meetings. Upon enrollment, additional required training is provided at no cost.
APPLICATION & ONBOARDING PROCESS
- Fill out online application form
- Complete free online course prerequisites and submit certificates of completion
- Attend program orientation
- Submit all personnel forms
- Complete background check and physical
- Receive uniform (at no cost to you)
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