FIRE CHIEF

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES: Has responsible charge of all activities of the fire department; does related work as required.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This is a highly important administrative position involving responsibility for planning and directing all firefighting and fire prevention activities. The position entails responsibility of the highest order for the protection of lives and property. The instruction and training of recruits, as well as the maintenance of high standards of performance throughout the force, are final responsibilities of the chief. Administrative direction is received from the Mayor.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: (Illustrative only)

Reports to and assumes command at all major fires and extraordinary emergencies;

Plans, coordinates, and directs the overall activities of all firefighting units;

Assigns men to perform specialized firefighting and fire prevention and ambulance duties;

Supervises the investigation and determination of causes of fires;

Directs the inspection of buildings for fire hazards to insure compliance with fire prevention

ordinances;

Maintains discipline and promotes the morale of the fire department;

Reviews reports and makes inspections to determine the condition and efficiency of all

firefighting units;

Takes measures to correct deficiencies when they occur;

Directs and inspects the maintenance and repair of all firefighting equipment;

Directs the preparation and maintenance of personnel and activities records and reports;

Interviews candidates for appointment to the department and makes recommendations; Directs the training of Fire Department personnel

Prepares and presents monthly reports and the annual budget for the Fire Department;

Recommends the purchase of supplies and equipment and the replacement of deficient

firefighting equipment;

Attends meetings and conferences and addresses interested groups regarding fire prevention and

firefighting activities;

Studies and sets up plans for dealing with possible conflagrations and other emergencies;

Initiates and develops public relations policies for the department.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Comprehensive knowledge of modern firefighting and fire prevention methods and equipment; thorough knowledge of the city building code and fire prevention laws and regulations; thorough knowledge of the geography, building conditions and major fire hazards of the municipality; thorough knowledge of safety precautions used in firefighting; thorough knowledge of current trends regarding the administration of firefighting and fire prevention activities; demonstrated ability to plan, coordinate and direct firefighting and fire prevention activities; ability to maintain discipline and promote morale; ability to develop cooperative relations with the public; initiative; resourcefulness; dependability; sound judgment in emergencies; good physical condition.

ACCEPTABLE TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE: Either:

1) Four years of satisfactory permanent competitive class service as a Fire Captain; or

2) Six years of satisfactory permanent competitive class service as a Fire Lieutenant; or

3) An equivalent of (1) and (2) above.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ACCEPTANCE OF APPLICATIONS: Possession of currently valid Emergency Medical Technician certificate. (7/74) Revised 7/74 Competitive

Section 418 P. 384 Codes Charter The municipal ambulance service established by this article shall be operated under the direction of the Chief of the Fire Department, or in his absence, such person as he shall designate.