The Northern Sonoma County Fire Protection District is now hiring Defensible Space Inspectors for the 2026 season. Defensible Space Inspectors conduct in-person property evaluations that focus on wildfire hazards such as overgrown vegetation, flammable materials near structures, and other home vulnerabilities to educate property owners and encourage actions that increase wildfire preparedness. This position is a great fit for individuals who are detail-oriented, enjoy working outdoors, and want to make a direct impact on community safety in Northern Sonoma County.

Position Description

The Defensible Space Inspector position is a temporary (seasonal) position. This position is expected to be active from approximately July through October.

Hours, Wages & Benefits

• This position is available as either a part-time (less than 35 hours per week) or a full-time (40 hours per week) position with flexible scheduling.
• Wages for this position are $30 per hour.
• This position will receive 50 hours of sick leave per year and uniform allowance. No health or retirement benefits are available in connection with this position.

Duties

Under the direct supervision of a Fire Captain, the Defensible Space Inspector performs a variety of duties including, but not limited to:

• Coordinate and conduct in-person property assessments.
• Evaluate vegetation and identify defensible space and home hardening needs.
• Complete and maintain records of inspections and other information related to duties.
• Prepare notices and correction letters that outline vegetation management compliance issues and deficiencies.
• Provide guidance and education on local fire safety regulations.
• Share preparedness resources, like the Chipper Program, with homeowners and neighborhood leaders.
• Represent the District in a professional manner at all times.
• Other duties as assigned by the Fire Chief.

Working Conditions

Work is outdoors in both urban and wildland environments, including hillsides and uneven terrain, in all weather conditions.

Minimum Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Valid driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

This is an entry level position that requires no previous training or skills; however, the candidate shall possess the ability to perform all duties as described herein.

Desirable Qualifications

• Knowledge of defensible space, forestry, fuels management, and the principles, practices, and methods used in site evaluation and hazard reduction.
• Knowledge of fire prevention principles, practices and techniques, especially as it relates to wildland fire in the urban interface.
• Coursework from an accredited college/university in forestry, fire science, natural resource management, conservation, or a closely related subject.
• Experience performing defensible space inspections.
• A background in customer service or public service.

Application Process

Applications are available online at https://www.northernsonomacountyfire.org/apply-here

Please email or hand deliver application to Anneke Turbeville. The selection process will include one or more of the following components: application review, oral interview, and background investigation.

Contact Information

For further information or questions contact Anneke Turbeville at aturbeville@nosocofire.com.

Disclaimers

The Northern Sonoma County Fire Protection District provides equal opportunity to all persons without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability or medical condition as defined in state and federal laws. This policy covers all facets of employment including, but not limited to, recruitment, training, promotion, compensation, discipline and termination. The District makes reasonable accommodations for disabled persons, considering each situation on an individual basis. Please make all direct requests for accommodation to the Fire Chief. The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute an expressed or implied contract and any provisions contained in this bulletin may be modified or revoked without notice.

Seasonal Defensible Space Inspector Job Announcement