Salinas Fire Cadet Program

Published on January 22, 2025

The Salinas Fire Cadet Program is growing! In 2023, SFD brought back this program, after more than 20 years, as a way to provide teenagers and young adults with a hands-on opportunity to explore careers in the fire service. The program is designed to encourage 14- to 20-year-olds to explore a career in the fire service and mentors young adults to serve their communities by providing knowledge, skills and practical experiences through education and training delivered by public safety professionals that develops character, physical fitness, and respect for their community.

The objectives of the Cadet Program are to provide an opportunity for Cadets to perform community service, gain practical experience, develop leadership skills, and to participate in career skills competitions and team building recreational activities. The goal is to help prepare Cadets to become better citizens and community members through character development and good citizenship. The Cadet Program has dedicated mentors who will provide guidance to the youth participants. Mentors consist of Fire Department employees.

Currently, the program has 11 Cadets and 14 mentors. The program aims to add an additional 9 Cadets during the 2025 calendar year for a total of 20 Cadets. Continue to monitor the Salinas Fire Department Webpage, Social Media, and other City platforms for more information! Including how to join this wonderful program! 

Update: Tuesday, March 6, 2025 

APPLY NOW

The Salinas Fire Cadet Program is NOW recruiting 11 new Fire Cadets! This program offers young individuals a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in emergency response while developing the skills and discipline needed to become contributing members of society. Cadets will take part in monthly drills led by experienced mentors from the Salinas Fire Department, where they learn about firefighting tactics, department operations, and essential life lessons that prepare them for a future in public service.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must be between the ages of 14 and 20.
• If currently enrolled in high school or college, must possess and maintain a GPA of 2.0 or higher.
• Must successfully complete the Salinas Fire Department Cadet Program Physical Agility Test.
• Must have no serious arrests and/or convictions.
• Must maintain the Salinas Fire Department’s grooming standards.
• Must have an active email address and check it regularly.

Recruitment Timeline:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What can I expect at the Meet & Greet Informational Session?
   • The Meet & Greet Informational Session will be held on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Fire Station 3 (827 Abbott Place). The session will include three hands-on stations, giving prospective cadets the chance to experience different firefighting skills. Parents are encouraged to attend to learn more about the program.
2. Is attendance at the Meet & Greet Event required?
   • No, but it is highly encouraged as it provides an opportunity to experience the program firsthand and ask any specific questions you may have.
3. What should I wear to the Meet & Greet Informational Session?
   • Wear clothes you don't mind getting a little dirty, as there will be hands-on workstations for you to try. Closed-toed shoes are required, and a jacket or sweatshirt is recommended as it can get cold and windy.
4. What is the Physical Agility Test?
   • The physical agility test consists of a 1-mile run for time, a push-up test, and a sit-up test. This serves as a benchmark to track physical fitness progress.
5. Where can I find the application, and how do I submit it? 
   • The application can be obtained in-person at the Meet & Greet Informational Session, can be found on the Salinas Fire Department Cadet Program webpage, and is available under our Frequently Requested Documents section. Once you have completed the application, please submit via email to FireAdministration@ci.salinas.ca.us.
6. Once I submit my application packet, how will I know when my interview is scheduled?
   • After your application is reviewed and accepted, we will contact you to schedule your interview.
7. What should I wear to my interview?
   • Business casual to business attire is acceptable. For example: dress pants and a collared shirt, slacks with a dress shirt and tie.
8. If selected, how many drills am I required to attend per year?
   • Cadets are allowed two unexcused absences per year. If you must miss a drill due to familial or personal obligations, please notify your primary mentor in advance. Full commitment to the program is expected, and we encourage attendance at as many drills as possible.
9. Is there a financial obligation associated with joining the Fire Cadet Program?
   • Yes, there is a registration fee of $20 per year. We are working with a local vendor to sponsor the program which would cover the uniform pants and shirts. However, if the sponsorship is not secured, the candidate will need to purchase their own uniform and physical training shorts, which are estimated at $200. Additionally, the cadet is responsible for purchasing uniform boots and a belt, with an estimated cost of $75.