AIRFIELD FIRE FIGHTER/CREW CHIEF 75132

03/01/91 D

 

CLASS CONCEPT/FUNCTION

This is the second class in the Airfield Fire Fighter series. Positions supervise and perform duties to suppress, combat, extinguish, and prevent aircraft and structural fires on or around an airfield. Under emergency conditions, duties extend to rescuing and rendering first aid to victims of fire, plane crashes, and accidents. This class is distinguished from Airfield Fire Fighter in that it directs the activities of several fire fighters in fire-fighting and rescue operations. It is distinguished from the Airfield Fire Officer/Assistant Chief, which is responsible for supervising all the crews on a single shift.

 

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE WORK

Complexity of the Work: Performs work of moderate difficulty, often requiring immediate independent judgment and decisions in emergencies in directing fire fighters in the best means of saving lives and structures. Supervises fire-fighting crew and assumes responsibilities of Airfield Fire Officer in the latter's absence. The work typically involves use of technical and specialized equipment to combat fires and gain entry into aircraft and structures. Provides advanced first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Provides guidance and training to fire fighters to maintain high state of fire-fighting readiness. Performs and supervises maintenance of equipment; supervises fire and safety inspections; and conducts both formal classroom instruction and informal on-the-job training.

Supervision Given: Positions typically supervise Airfield Fire Fighter crews.

Supervision Received: Receives general supervision from Airfield Fire Officer/Assistant Chief.

Scope: Activities have direct effect on minimizing injuries and death, and loss or damage of property at scene of fire or other emergency.

Impact of Actions: Work directly affects the efficiency of the Airfield Fire Department in eliminating fire hazards, preventing fires and accidents, minimizing property damage, and avoiding loss of lives. Improper performance of duty could cause fire hazards, excessive fire loss or destruction, and potential bodily injury or loss of life.

Personal Contacts: Positions have frequent contact with supervisors of buildings and areas, safety officers of aircraft, and other base personnel to prevent or reduce damage due to fire and explosions. Occasional contact with medical personnel on procedures for proper handling or removal of injured personnel and advanced first aid treatment. Occasional contact with law enforcement or security personnel to cordon areas or to provide information to investigators.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Knowledge: Working knowledge of fire-fighting principles, practices, procedures, and techniques, and of the capabilities and use of all fire-fighting, technical, and specialized equipment. Considerable knowledge of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and emergency first aid treatment. Working knowledge of different fuels, munitions, chemicals, hazardous materials, and aircraft designs to prevent possible explosions and further damage to life and property.

Skills: Considerable skill in deployment and operation of all fire-fighting equipment, including technical and specialized equipment.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to immediately analyze fire scenes and make decisions to extinguish fire and eliminate life-threatening situations. Demonstrated ability to lead and direct personnel, and to communicate with the public, workers, and other emergency personnel. Demonstrated ability to interpret rules and regulations. Demonstrated ability to recognize the inherent danger of various fuels, munitions, and hazardous material, and to take immediate corrective action.

 

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses or Certifications: Virginia certified Fire Fighter III, Hazardous Material I (HAZMAT I), and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or equivalent. Virginia driver's license. Pass a comprehensive medical examination. Qualify for a "Secret" security clearance.

Education or Training: High school or GED.

Level and Type of Experience: Experience as a fire fighter with some supervisory responsibility.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge, skills and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

 

CLASS HISTORY

This class is one of four new classes established by the Department of Military Affairs in March 1991.