Program Overview
The Roseville Fire Department Cadet Program is a structured training program designed for young adults aged 16-20 interested in learning about the fire service while developing leadership, teamwork, and life skills.
Cadets participate in classroom instruction and hands-on training that introduces the fundamentals of firefighting, emergency services, and fire department operations. Training is conducted in a safe, supervised environment by Roseville Fire Department personnel and emphasizes professionalism, safety, accountability, and respect.
The Cadet Program is not a ride-along or volunteer response program. Cadets do not respond to emergency incidents or ride on fire engines during emergency calls. Instead, participants gain experience through organized drills, practical exercises, and mentorship that provide an inside look at the fire service while preparing them for future educational and career opportunities.
Throughout the program, cadets are expected to maintain high standards of conduct, attend scheduled training, wear the required uniform, follow the chain of command, and demonstrate a commitment to learning and personal growth.
Whether a participant is considering a future career in the fire service or simply wants to develop leadership skills and gain a better understanding of the profession, the Cadet Program provides a rewarding and challenging experience in a professional environment.Applicants must be between 16 and 20 years of age as of January 1, 2027.
Cadets who are 18 years of age or older are required to complete a Live Scan background check, with the cost covered by the City of Roseville. If a cadet turns 18 during the program, they must complete the Live Scan within one month of their 18th birthday. To remain eligible for the program, Live Scan results must not reveal any felony convictions or other criminal offenses that would disqualify the cadet under department policy.
Applications will open on July 13, 2026, and close on August 13, 2026.
The application process will require the following:
- Basic applicant contact information
- A one-page essay describing why the applicant wants to join the Cadet Program
- A letter of recommendation from a leader in the applicant’s life
- A completed sports physical from a licensed medical provider (form can be found here)
- A signed liability waiver for participation in physical training activities
The application will be available online (link to be provided once applications open).
For questions regarding the application process, please contact: firecadet@roseville.ca.govThe Cadet Program is a competitive selection process with limited space available. Up to 20 cadets may be selected for the pilot program.
Applications are reviewed based on interest in public service, responsibility, and readiness for participation in a structured training environment.
Selected applicants will be notified as they advance through each stage of the process. The full selection timeline is outlined below.
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Date |
Description |
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July 13 – August 13 |
Application Period: Applications are accepted. |
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August 30 |
Physical Agility Test: Selected candidates will be invited to complete the Cadet Program Physical Agility Test. Please see the Physical Agility section in the FAQ's below for more information on this test. |
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Week of August 31 |
Interview Notifications: Applicants selected to move forward are notified and scheduled for panel interviews. |
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Week of September 21 |
Panel Interviews: Formal interviews conducted outside of school hours with the Cadet Program selection panel. |
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By October 2 |
Acceptance Notifications: Official notifications are sent to selected cadets. |
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November 6 |
Program Payment Due: Program fees must be received. (Live Scan must be completed for cadets 18 years of age and older.) |
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By November 12 |
Uniform Sizing & Ordering: Cadets complete sizing and uniform ordering. |
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Wednesday, December 2 |
Cadet & Family Orientation: Orientation covering expectations, safety, uniforms, schedule, and program overview. |
Note: All dates are subject to change based on operational needs. Applicants are responsible for meeting all deadlines to remain eligible for selection into the Roseville Fire Department Cadet Program.
Cadets must be able to attend two training sessions per month from January 2027 to May 2027.
Training will take place on Saturday evenings from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Roseville Fire Department Training Center:
2030 Hilltop Circle, Roseville, CA
Cadets will receive instruction and participate in activities such as:
- Firefighter fundamentals
- Emergency services overview
- Physical fitness and conditioning
- Team building and leadership development
- Fire department operations and procedures
- Hands-on skills training and drills
The cost for the first-year pilot program (January–May 2027) is $400.
This fee includes:
- Cadet uniform package
- Required program materials and supplies
Cadets must provide their own:
- PT shorts (specifications will be provided)
- Athletic (tennis) shoes for physical training
Cadets will retain their issued uniform and designated program materials upon successful completion of the program.
Program fees are non-refundable once the cadet uniform package has been issued. If a cadet withdraws from or is released from the program, any refund eligibility will be based on the timing of removal and program expenditures already incurred.
Scholarship opportunities are available for qualifying applicants. Please reach out for more information: firecadet@roseville.ca.usCadets are expected to:
- Maintain professional behavior at all times
- Follow instructions and the chain of command
- Arrive on time and be prepared for training
- Wear the required uniform properly
- Demonstrate respect, accountability, and teamwork
Failure to meet program expectations may result in removal from the program.
Parents and guardians are welcome to drop off and pick up cadets at scheduled times. For safety and program structure, parents are not permitted to stay or observe training sessions.
An informational evening will be held for families of selected cadets to review program expectations and provide additional details.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The Cadet Program does not provide formal certifications. Participants will gain valuable training, experience, and exposure to the fire service.
The Cadet Program provides valuable exposure and hands-on learning in the fire service. However, participation does not guarantee employment with the Roseville Fire Department or any other fire agency.
No. Parents, guardians, family, and friends may drop off and pick up cadets, but are not permitted to remain during training sessions.
Cadets may withdraw from the program at any time by notifying program staff in writing. Cadets who are released from the program are subject to program policies regarding fees and participation.
Please contact firecadet@roseville.ca.gov for any additional questions regarding the Cadet Program.
As part of the Roseville Fire Cadet Program application process, applicants will complete a Physical Agility Assessment. The assessment is designed to ensure participants can safely participate in the hands-on activities included throughout the program.
No previous firefighting experience is required. Before each evolution, instructors will explain the task and demonstrate the proper technique. The assessment is not intended to test firefighting knowledge, but rather to evaluate basic strength, endurance, coordination, and the ability to follow directions while completing physical activities.
Applicants should wear comfortable athletic clothing and closed-toe athletic shoes.
Hose Carry and Stair Climb
Carry a bundled fire hose up and down the training tower stairs.
Comparable activity: Hiking stairs while carrying a backpack, carrying sports equipment up stadium steps, or climbing stairs while carrying bags of pet food or mulch.
Skills evaluated: Lower-body strength, balance, endurance, and safe lifting techniques.
Charged Hose Advancement
Advance a water-filled fire hose over a designated distance while maintaining control.
Comparable activity: Pushing a weighted sled at the gym, pulling a resistance trainer, or pushing a heavy shopping cart across a parking lot.
Skills evaluated: Full-body strength, coordination, and body control.
Hose Drag
Pull a section of fire hose by hand over a designated distance.
Comparable activity: Pulling a weighted sled with a rope, dragging a heavy duffel bag, or moving a loaded cooler across the ground.
Skills evaluated: Grip strength, upper-body strength, and endurance.
Ground Ladder Operations
Raise and lower a 24-foot extension ladder using techniques taught by instructors.
Comparable activity: Working with a large extension ladder while cleaning gutters or hanging holiday lights, or moving a long kayak or canoe with proper body mechanics. (No prior experience is expected.)
Skills evaluated: Coordination, balance, safe lifting, and equipment handling.
Tower Climb
Climb to the top of the training tower and ring the bell to complete the assessment.
Comparable activity: Climbing several flights of stairs at a stadium, office building, or parking garage.
Skills evaluated: Cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and the ability to safely complete physical activity.
How You'll Be Evaluated
Applicants are evaluated on their ability to safely complete each evolution while following instructions and demonstrating proper technique. The assessment includes a timed component; however, it is not intended to be a race. Completion time may be considered, along with overall performance, when determining which candidates advance in the selection process. Safety, proper technique, and the ability to follow instructions remain the primary evaluation criteria.
The Physical Agility Assessment helps ensure cadets are physically prepared for the hands-on training they will experience throughout the Roseville Fire Cadet Program.
