City of Berkeley, CA
Salary : $110,490.02 - $117,189.28 Annually
Location : Berkeley, CA
Job Type: Career
Job Number: 2025-07-9043
Department: Fire
Opening Date: 07/07/2025
Closing Date: 8/18/2025 5:00 PM Pacific
BENEFITS OF WORKING FOR BERKELEY
is a small city with a big reputation. At just ten square miles of land and seven square miles of water, Berkeley is famous around the globe as a center for academic achievement, scientific exploration, free speech, and the arts, and home to over 50 parks, a top-ranked university, and the largest public marina in the San Francisco Bay.
As an employer, the City of Berkeley offers all the benefits of a career in the public sector while fostering diversity, creativity, and innovation. Join a team of high-caliber, experienced staff with a shared mission of serving the Berkeley community and promoting an accessible, safe, healthy, environmentally-sound and culturally-rich city.
JOB OPPORTUNITY
*CLOSING DATE EXTENDED AND EXAM DATES ADJUSTED - SEE BELOW*
The City of Berkeley invites you to apply for the position of Fire Mechanic Lead in the Fire Department! In this role, you will have the opportunity to lead the maintenance of our heavy-duty fire engines and trucks. You will receive the opportunity to get the latest training from Pierce on their TAC 4 suspension, pump and valve training, computer diagnostics, aerial ladder inspection and repair.
The Fire Mechanic Lead will be instrumental in developing a new maintenance program at Berkeley Fire Department. This position will work closely with our Logistics Captain to manage our fleet, help design future Fire Engine and Truck build specs, and design an efficient maintenance and repair program.
See the full job class specification here:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
A typical way of gaining the knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position is:
At Time of Application:
1. Graduation from high school or equivalent.
2. Three years of experience maintaining and repairing heavy-duty vehicles, ideally including fire engines and aerial ladder trucks.
3. California Commercial Class B commercial driver's license, or Class C with a firefighter endorsement license with air brake and tank endorsements.
By Completion of Probation:
1. Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certified Master Medium-Heavy Truck Technician.
2. Completion of specialized courses in fire apparatus maintenance and repair:
Tools & Equipment Used
Diagnostic tools, hammers, screwdrivers, pry bars, wrenches, pliers, ratchets, sockets, electrical meters, code readers, drills, welding equipment, hydraulic lifts, overhead cranes, fleet management software, computers, and phones.
Physical Requirements
Frequent walking, standing, sitting, kneeling, squatting, twisting, and bending at the waist. Ability to hear automotive sounds, read fine print, and view a computer monitor. Sufficient strength and stamina to lift and install parts weighing up to 80 pounds. Manual dexterity for detailed mechanical work and computer use.
Working Conditions
Work is performed indoors and outdoors with exposure to hot and cold environments. Noise level ranges from moderate to high. Potential exposure to hazardous materials and emergency conditions.
In addition to the qualifications above, the ideal candidate will demonstrate being a self starter, will poses strong leadership skills, and be a strong communicator. The ability to listen to the requests of our crews, filter and set repair priorities, and be able to multitask and manage multiple repairs will be important.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Applications must be received by Monday, August 18, 2025 at 5:00 PM PST and must include a completed application, all required attachments listed below, and responses to any supplemental questions. Please note that resumes are not a substitute for a completed application.
Required attachments in application: - High School Information within the Education Section of your Application - Upload photo attachments of both the FRONT and BACK of your California Driver's License
Applications are available in alternative formats (audio-format, braille, large print, electronic text, etc.) upon request to Please allow 10 days for production of the material in an alternative format.
EXAM PROCESS
The exam process will include, but may not be limited to:
Tests may consist of any combination of written, oral or other exercises or assessment procedures that test content and may include, but are not necessarily limited to, typing, math, reading, writing and analytical skills; problem solving ability; computer and software proficiency, or any other job-related knowledge, skill, ability or qualification. The examination process and dates are subject to change. The City may, without notice, change or eliminate any assessment component as needs dictate. Applicants passing all examination phases will have their names placed on an employment eligible list that hiring departments will use to conduct final selection interviews slated for the week of September 22, 2025.
Reasonable Accommodations: The City is committed to making reasonable accommodations in the examination process and in the work environment. Individuals requesting reasonable accommodations in the examination process must submit a request in writing to at the time of application.
PRE-EMPLOYMENT PROCESS
Candidates under final consideration for employment with the City will undergo an employment background/reference check that may include, but is not limited to: employment history, confirmation of educational credentials and degrees, licenses including driver's license, registrations, certificates, other credentials, credit check, criminal history check, and Live Scan fingerprinting.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO) EMPLOYER
The City of Berkeley is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All employment actions shall be administered regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, physical or mental disability or medical condition, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, political affiliation, veterans' status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.
DISASTER SERVICE WORKER
All City employees are required to provide services as Disaster Service Workers in the event of an emergency/disaster.
Benefited employees receive a myriad of financial and other , including CalPERS pension and other retirement plans, medical and dental coverage, tuition reimbursement, paid time off and more.
Benefit-eligible employees include those with a regular work schedule of at least 20 hours per week. Employees working less than 30 hours per week may receive pro-rated benefits.
Retirement
CalPERS
City employees are included in the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS). The retirement formula is either 2% at age 62 (PEPRA members) or 2.7% at age 55 (Classic members).
Supplemental Retirement Income Plan (SRIP)
The City contributes 6.7% of the first $32,400 of the employee's salary (up to $2,170 annually) into a 401(a) account. The City is not a member of Social Security, therefore only the Medicare portion is deducted from employees' salaries.
Deferred Compensation
The City offers voluntary 457 deferred compensation plans with CalPERS or Empower. Employees may contribute up to the IRS maximum on a pre-tax basis.
Medical Plans
Employees can choose coverage under Kaiser HMO or Sutter Health Plus HMO. The City contributes up to 100% of the family premium for the Kaiser plan, or up to 99% of the family premium for the Sutter Health Plus plan. Employees who have medical coverage under another group plan may choose to waive City-provided medical coverage and receive a monthly stipend.
Dental Plan
The City provides group dental benefits through Delta Dental of California. The City contributes up to the family coverage for the plan, which covers 90% of the dental charges up to $2,000 annually per person. Orthodontic benefits are offered at a $2,000 lifetime maximum per person. Employees who have dental coverage under another group plan may choose to waive City-provided dental coverage and receive a monthly stipend.
Life Insurance
The City provides employees with a $25,000 Life Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment policy. Employees have the option to purchase additional term life insurance up to a maximum of $300,000.
Sick Leave
Employees earn one day of paid sick leave per month.
Vacation
New employees accrue 2 weeks of vacation annually, with an increase to 3 weeks annually after 4 years of service.
Holidays
15 paid holidays and 3 floating holidays annually
YMCA Membership
The City provides a subsidy of 75% of the membership fee for employees who choose to join the Downtown Berkeley YMCA.
(UNREP - GENERAL)
01
Please indicate your highest level of education completed.
02
Please confirm that you provided your High School or equivalent information within the Education section of your application.
03
Please confirm you have uploaded pictures of both the FRONT and BACK of your valid California driver's license. (Must be a California Commercial Class B driver's license OR Class C with a firefighter endorsement license with air brake and tank endorsements per the minimum qualifications of the classification.)
Required Question
Location : Berkeley, CA
Job Type: Career
Job Number: 2025-07-9043
Department: Fire
Opening Date: 07/07/2025
Closing Date: 8/18/2025 5:00 PM Pacific
BENEFITS OF WORKING FOR BERKELEY
is a small city with a big reputation. At just ten square miles of land and seven square miles of water, Berkeley is famous around the globe as a center for academic achievement, scientific exploration, free speech, and the arts, and home to over 50 parks, a top-ranked university, and the largest public marina in the San Francisco Bay.
As an employer, the City of Berkeley offers all the benefits of a career in the public sector while fostering diversity, creativity, and innovation. Join a team of high-caliber, experienced staff with a shared mission of serving the Berkeley community and promoting an accessible, safe, healthy, environmentally-sound and culturally-rich city.
JOB OPPORTUNITY
*CLOSING DATE EXTENDED AND EXAM DATES ADJUSTED - SEE BELOW*
The City of Berkeley invites you to apply for the position of Fire Mechanic Lead in the Fire Department! In this role, you will have the opportunity to lead the maintenance of our heavy-duty fire engines and trucks. You will receive the opportunity to get the latest training from Pierce on their TAC 4 suspension, pump and valve training, computer diagnostics, aerial ladder inspection and repair.
The Fire Mechanic Lead will be instrumental in developing a new maintenance program at Berkeley Fire Department. This position will work closely with our Logistics Captain to manage our fleet, help design future Fire Engine and Truck build specs, and design an efficient maintenance and repair program.
See the full job class specification here:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
A typical way of gaining the knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position is:
At Time of Application:
1. Graduation from high school or equivalent.
2. Three years of experience maintaining and repairing heavy-duty vehicles, ideally including fire engines and aerial ladder trucks.
3. California Commercial Class B commercial driver's license, or Class C with a firefighter endorsement license with air brake and tank endorsements.
By Completion of Probation:
1. Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certified Master Medium-Heavy Truck Technician.
2. Completion of specialized courses in fire apparatus maintenance and repair:
- General:
- Chassis Electrical - Understand the location and function of (non-multiplex) electrical systems and components used on Pierce® chassis.
- Command Zone™ Systems - Get detailed instruction on the Pierce Command Zone™ electrical systems including the new Command Zone III.
- Preventative Maintenance - Become an expert in preventive maintenance procedures required for fire apparatus based on NFPA and DOT Standards.
- TAK-4® Suspension Maintenance - Learn the basic design and principles of the TAK-4® Independent Front Suspension system, including proper maintenance and repair.
- SRP/Frontal Protection - Get expert instruction on the installation, repair, and troubleshooting of the SRP/FIP system.
- Air Conditioning Systems - Get the basics on repairs, troubleshooting and maintenance needs of Pierce installed components.
- Chassis Diagnosis - Evaluate drivability issues, including how to do advanced troubleshooting, perform failure analysis, determine the causes of chassis component failures and learn how to repair and prevent issues properly.
- Air Brakes, ESC, ABS Troubleshooting - Learn basic air brake theory and proper repair and maintenance procedures on chassis air brake systems
- Pierce Type I/III Engine:
- California Fire Mechanics Academy: CFM115-Fire Pumps & Accessories or SFT Equivalent
- CAFS/Husky Maintenance - Learn the principles of operation, maintenance, and repair of all the Pierce Husky™ Foam Systems and the Hercules™ Compressed Air Foam Systems (CAFS).
- Pierce PUC™ Pump Maintenance - Learn the basic principles of operation, maintenance and complete disassembly of the REPTO driven water pump and gearbox.
- Pierce Aerial Ladder Truck:
- Aerial Maintenance - Understand the proper repair and maintenance of Pierce aerial ladders and platforms.
- Ascendant® Class Aerial Maintenance - Learn proper repair and maintenance of Ascendant® Class Aerials, including the aerial electrical and hydraulic systems.
- Advanced Aerial Maintenance - Get detailed information about advanced repair and maintenance of Pierce aerial systems.
Tools & Equipment Used
Diagnostic tools, hammers, screwdrivers, pry bars, wrenches, pliers, ratchets, sockets, electrical meters, code readers, drills, welding equipment, hydraulic lifts, overhead cranes, fleet management software, computers, and phones.
Physical Requirements
Frequent walking, standing, sitting, kneeling, squatting, twisting, and bending at the waist. Ability to hear automotive sounds, read fine print, and view a computer monitor. Sufficient strength and stamina to lift and install parts weighing up to 80 pounds. Manual dexterity for detailed mechanical work and computer use.
Working Conditions
Work is performed indoors and outdoors with exposure to hot and cold environments. Noise level ranges from moderate to high. Potential exposure to hazardous materials and emergency conditions.
In addition to the qualifications above, the ideal candidate will demonstrate being a self starter, will poses strong leadership skills, and be a strong communicator. The ability to listen to the requests of our crews, filter and set repair priorities, and be able to multitask and manage multiple repairs will be important.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Applications must be received by Monday, August 18, 2025 at 5:00 PM PST and must include a completed application, all required attachments listed below, and responses to any supplemental questions. Please note that resumes are not a substitute for a completed application.
Required attachments in application: - High School Information within the Education Section of your Application - Upload photo attachments of both the FRONT and BACK of your California Driver's License
Applications are available in alternative formats (audio-format, braille, large print, electronic text, etc.) upon request to Please allow 10 days for production of the material in an alternative format.
EXAM PROCESS
The exam process will include, but may not be limited to:
- Application review for minimum qualifications and required documents (qualifying experience will be calculated based on the administrative review date)
- Performance Exam - Tentatively scheduled for September 4, 2025
Tests may consist of any combination of written, oral or other exercises or assessment procedures that test content and may include, but are not necessarily limited to, typing, math, reading, writing and analytical skills; problem solving ability; computer and software proficiency, or any other job-related knowledge, skill, ability or qualification. The examination process and dates are subject to change. The City may, without notice, change or eliminate any assessment component as needs dictate. Applicants passing all examination phases will have their names placed on an employment eligible list that hiring departments will use to conduct final selection interviews slated for the week of September 22, 2025.
Reasonable Accommodations: The City is committed to making reasonable accommodations in the examination process and in the work environment. Individuals requesting reasonable accommodations in the examination process must submit a request in writing to at the time of application.
PRE-EMPLOYMENT PROCESS
Candidates under final consideration for employment with the City will undergo an employment background/reference check that may include, but is not limited to: employment history, confirmation of educational credentials and degrees, licenses including driver's license, registrations, certificates, other credentials, credit check, criminal history check, and Live Scan fingerprinting.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO) EMPLOYER
The City of Berkeley is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All employment actions shall be administered regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, physical or mental disability or medical condition, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, political affiliation, veterans' status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.
DISASTER SERVICE WORKER
All City employees are required to provide services as Disaster Service Workers in the event of an emergency/disaster.
Benefited employees receive a myriad of financial and other , including CalPERS pension and other retirement plans, medical and dental coverage, tuition reimbursement, paid time off and more.
Benefit-eligible employees include those with a regular work schedule of at least 20 hours per week. Employees working less than 30 hours per week may receive pro-rated benefits.
Retirement
CalPERS
City employees are included in the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS). The retirement formula is either 2% at age 62 (PEPRA members) or 2.7% at age 55 (Classic members).
Supplemental Retirement Income Plan (SRIP)
The City contributes 6.7% of the first $32,400 of the employee's salary (up to $2,170 annually) into a 401(a) account. The City is not a member of Social Security, therefore only the Medicare portion is deducted from employees' salaries.
Deferred Compensation
The City offers voluntary 457 deferred compensation plans with CalPERS or Empower. Employees may contribute up to the IRS maximum on a pre-tax basis.
Medical Plans
Employees can choose coverage under Kaiser HMO or Sutter Health Plus HMO. The City contributes up to 100% of the family premium for the Kaiser plan, or up to 99% of the family premium for the Sutter Health Plus plan. Employees who have medical coverage under another group plan may choose to waive City-provided medical coverage and receive a monthly stipend.
Dental Plan
The City provides group dental benefits through Delta Dental of California. The City contributes up to the family coverage for the plan, which covers 90% of the dental charges up to $2,000 annually per person. Orthodontic benefits are offered at a $2,000 lifetime maximum per person. Employees who have dental coverage under another group plan may choose to waive City-provided dental coverage and receive a monthly stipend.
Life Insurance
The City provides employees with a $25,000 Life Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment policy. Employees have the option to purchase additional term life insurance up to a maximum of $300,000.
Sick Leave
Employees earn one day of paid sick leave per month.
Vacation
New employees accrue 2 weeks of vacation annually, with an increase to 3 weeks annually after 4 years of service.
Holidays
15 paid holidays and 3 floating holidays annually
YMCA Membership
The City provides a subsidy of 75% of the membership fee for employees who choose to join the Downtown Berkeley YMCA.
(UNREP - GENERAL)
01
Please indicate your highest level of education completed.
- Some High School
- High School or Equivalent
- Associate's Degree
- Bachelor's Degree
- Master's Degree or Higher
02
Please confirm that you provided your High School or equivalent information within the Education section of your application.
- I have provided the required education information in my application.
- I did not complete high school or currently possess an equivalent.
03
Please confirm you have uploaded pictures of both the FRONT and BACK of your valid California driver's license. (Must be a California Commercial Class B driver's license OR Class C with a firefighter endorsement license with air brake and tank endorsements per the minimum qualifications of the classification.)
- I have uploaded the required document.
- I do not possess a valid California Class B commercial driver's license OR Class C with a firefighter endorsement license with air brake and tank endorsements
Required Question