About this position
The Wildfire Defensible Space program plays a critical role in helping community members protect their homes from wildfire. In partnership with 12 fire agencies across the county, the program is a collaborative effort to strengthen community resilience and reduce fire risk.
Each year, the program hires 30–35 Seasonal Inspectors to conduct in-person property evaluations. These inspections focus on wildfire hazards such as overgrown vegetation, flammable materials near structures, and other home vulnerabilities. The primary goal is to educate property owners and encourage action that increases their wildfire preparedness.
What Defensible Space Inspectors Do
Seasonal Inspectors work directly with the public to help improve community wildfire safety. Their responsibilities include:
- Conducting in-person home assessments throughout Marin County
- Evaluating vegetation and identifying defensible space and home hardening needs
- Providing guidance and education on local fire safety regulations
- Sharing preparedness resources like AlertMarin and MWPA’s Chipper Program
- Using secure electronic devices to collect data and generate Wildfire Risk Reports
These reports are customized for each property and include actionable steps homeowners can take to reduce wildfire risk. The data collected also helps Marin County Fire and partner agencies better understand fire threats across the region.
Why join the Defensible Space Program?
This role offers meaningful, hands-on experience in fire prevention and public outreach. It’s a great fit for individuals who are detail-oriented, enjoy working outdoors, and want to make a difference in community safety. It’s also a solid pathway to other roles within Marin County Fire, such as Tamalpais Fire Crew, Engine Firefighter, or Dispatch.
If you’re interested in wildfire prevention, community education, and making a direct impact in Marin, consider applying to join the Wildfire Defensible Space team.
Qualifications
- At least 18 years of age by application filing deadline
- High School Graduation (or GED equivalent)
- A current, valid California Driver's Class C (basic) License. Applicants are required to furnish a recent DMV driving record at the time of the interview.
- Live Scan
- Medical Exam (with drug screening).
- Note: The County of Marin drug screening follows federal guidelines where the use of marijuana is not permissible.