AIRFIELD FIRE OFFICER/DEPUTY CHIEF 75142

03/01/91 D

This is the second class in the Airfield Fire Officer series. Positions in this class assist the Base Fire Chief in carrying out responsibility for the operation and supervision of the Airfield Fire Department in suppressing, combatting, extinguishing, or preventing fires on or around an airfield involving aircraft and structures. In emergencies this supervision may extend to rescue services and basic first aid to victims of fire, plane crashes, and accidents. It is distinguished from Airfield Fire Officer/Assistant Chief in that it carries the responsibility for the readiness and operation of the Airfield Fire Department.

Complexity of the Work: Performs work of considerable difficulty, requiring independent judgment and decisions affecting Fire Department operations, sometimes under the stress created by emergency conditions. Supervises administration, training, inspection, and maintenance to ensure that personnel and equipment maintain a high state of fire-fighting readiness. Position is responsible for the training and readiness of fire-fighting personnel. Prepares budget for fire protection services. Schedules the work of personnel to provide 24-hour fire protection.

Supervision Given: Positions typically supervise Airfield Fire Officers/Assistant Chiefs.

Supervision Received: Receives general direction from Base Fire Chief. Works independently to ensure that personnel are trained to perform emergency missions of combatting fires and rescuing personnel.

Scope: Work has direct effect on the operations of the airfield fire department in 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: 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. Considerable knowledge of different fuels, munitions, chemicals, hazardous materials, and aircraft designs as they apply to explosions and damage to life and property. Some knowledge of chemistry as applied to combustion and the products of combustion. Considerable knowledge of supervisory principles and practices.

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

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to immediately analyze fire and emergency scenes, and to make quick decisions to extinguish fire and eliminate life-threatening situations. Demonstrated ability to recognize the inherent danger of various fuels, munitions, and hazardous material, and to take immediate corrective action. Demonstrated ability to identify odors of combustion. Demonstrated ability to interpret and enforce fire prevention codes; to lead and direct personnel; and to communicate with the public, workers, and other emergency personnel. Demonstrated ability to prepare written reports.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE *

Licenses or Certifications: Virginia certified Fire Fighter III, Hazardous Material I (HAZMAT I), and Emergency Medical Treatment (EMT) or equivalent. Virginia driver's license with no more than six demerit points in one year or nine demerit points in two years. Pass a comprehensive medical examination. Qualify for a "Secret" security clearance.

Education or Training: High school or GED.

Level and Type of Experience: Fire supervisory experience at shift supervisor level.

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

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