Professional Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline

Marcella Castaneda

CALFIRE State Of California
Fairfield,CA
15
years of professional experience

Adept at fireline construction and demonstrating exceptional leadership, I significantly enhanced wildfire containment and crew safety at CALFIRE State Of California. My expertise in chainsaw operation and adaptability ensured effective public safety communication and environmental protection, leading to a notable improvement in firefighting efficiency and community trust.

Energetic and resilient individual with strong work ethic and passion for outdoors. Knowledge of fire behavior and suppression tactics, coupled with physical stamina and ability to operate firefighting equipment. Committed to contributing to community safety and effective wildfire management.

Developed leadership and teamwork skills in demanding and unpredictable environments. Proven ability to stay calm under pressure and make strategic decisions in high-stress situations. Seeking to transition into new field where analytical thinking and effective communication can drive positive outcomes.

Work History

Wildland Firefighter

6 Years 9 Months
CALFIRE State Of California | 02.2018 - 11.2024
  • Cut and cleared brush and dug trenches to create fire lines using axes, chainsaws or shovels.
  • Patrolled burnt areas after fires to locate and eliminate hot spots that could flare or rekindle.
  • Enhanced wildfire containment by coordinating and executing strategic fireline construction.
  • Upheld high standards of professionalism while interacting with the public during prescribed burns or emergency situations.
  • Optimized firefighter performance through active participation in daily physical training sessions designed to maintain endurance levels.
  • Improved crew safety through diligent hazard assessment and risk management during incidents.
  • Established water supplies, connected hoses and directed water onto fires.
  • Mitigated environmental impact of wildfires by implementing soil erosion prevention techniques during fireline construction.

Host/server

2 Years 4 Months
Pepe's Taqueria | 09.2015 - 01.2018
  • Handled high-pressure situations with composure, effectively managing large parties or unexpected events during busy shifts.
  • Took reservations and to-go orders by phone, answered customer questions, and informed of accurate wait times.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by promptly greeting and seating guests upon arrival.
  • Contributed to team success through effective communication and cooperation with coworkers and management.
  • Increased restaurant efficiency by maintaining an organized host stand, including menus, reservation logs, and seating charts.
  • Maintained a clean and welcoming atmosphere by quickly addressing spills and resetting tables after guest departure.
  • Worked with front of house staff to move tables and adjust seating to accommodate groups with special requests.
  • Monitored seating area and checked restrooms regularly to keep spotless.
  • Facilitated positive first impressions for guests through friendly greetings, professional attire, and genuine enthusiasm for their visit.

Front Desk Agent

2 Years 3 Months
Comfort Suites Hotel | 05.2013 - 08.2015
  • Collected room deposits, fees, and payments.
  • Maintained accurate records of guest information, payments, and reservations using hotel management software systems.
  • Provided exceptional service during high-volume periods or challenging situations, ensuring a seamless experience for all guests.
  • Resolved guest issues promptly, resulting in positive feedback and return visits.
  • Took reservations over phone, in person, and via computer for guests and provided confirmation information.
  • Welcomed each new arrival pleasantly and confirmed reservations and identification.
  • Handled incoming calls professionally, directing inquiries to appropriate personnel as needed.
  • Maintained clean and organized front desk areas to uphold polished company image.

Housekeeper

1 Year 9 Months
Thew Surf Motel | 05.2010 - 02.2012
  • Disinfected and mopped bathrooms to keep facilities sanitary and clean.
  • Cleaned and stocked guest rooms by replacing used towels and linens vacuuming floors, making beds, and restocking bathroom items.
  • Collaborated with other housekeeping staff to complete tasks efficiently and effectively.
  • Vacuumed rugs and carpeted areas in offices, lobbies, and corridors.
  • Used chemicals by following safety protocols and procedures to avoid burns and injuries.
  • Upheld high standards of sanitation in common areas, contributing to an inviting atmosphere for guests.
  • Removed bed sheets and towels from rooms and pre-treated stains to maintain and restore linen condition.
  • Enhanced guest satisfaction by ensuring thorough cleaning and timely room turnovers.
  • Slid beds, sofas, and other furniture aside to wipe down baseboards and remove dust and dirt from hard-to-reach areas.

Education

Fire Academy - Wildland Firefighter

San Diego City Fire Academy | San Diego, CA | 07.2019
  • Awarded [Award Name]Top Hiker

Skills

Chainsaw operation
Fire suppression tools operations
Fire containment
Backfire and flanking
Physical fitness and endurance
Fireline construction
Fire shelter deployment
Fire behavior prediction
Wildlife habitat protection
First aid certified
Controlled burning techniques
Firefighter personal protective equipment
Public safety communication
Fire crew leadership
Fire lookout operation
Decision-making
Brush removal
Flexible and adaptable
Firefighting
Fire weather monitoring
Property protection and salvage

Timeline

Wildland Firefighter

CALFIRE State Of California
02.2018 - 11.2024Read More

Host/server

Pepe's Taqueria
09.2015 - 01.2018Read More

Front Desk Agent

Comfort Suites Hotel
05.2013 - 08.2015Read More

Housekeeper

Thew Surf Motel
05.2010 - 02.2012Read More

San Diego City Fire Academy

Fire Academy from Wildland Firefighter
Read More
Marcella Castaneda