Fire Equipment Operator

FIRE EQUIPMENT OPERATOR General Statement of Duties Performs responsible fire suppression, rescue, and incident response activities including operating fire apparatus and participating in firefighting. Distinguishing Features of the Class An employee in this class staffs the station, assures that the fire apparatus is operable, and drives to the fire scene. Employees work 24 hour periods and work alone for substantial periods of time during the shift. If first on the scene, assesses the situation, serves as incident commander and determines best method to handle situation. At the scene the employee normally operates the pumper to deliver water and assure proper pressure; uses fire equipment as needed at accidents and fire scenes. Also performs station, grounds, and equipment maintenance tasks. Employees work with volunteer firefighters who respond to fire calls. The employee is subject to inside and outside environmental conditions, extreme cold and heat, noise, vibration, hazards, atmospheric conditions, oils, and wearing a self-contained breathing apparatus. The employee may be exposed to bloodborne pathogens and may be required to wear specialized personal protective equipment. Work is performed under general supervision of the Fire Chief and is evaluated through observation, conferences, and written reports concerning the quality and effectiveness of work completed. Duties and Responsibilities Essential Duties and Tasks Responds to alarms for emergency fire and related situations; drives equipment to scenes and operates pumpers and equipment; assumes command at fire scene until higher ranking officers respond. Responds to alarms and assists in the suppression of fires, including rescue, entry, extrication, ventilating, salvage work, hazmat and first response emergency situations; fills out required forms and reports after each incident. Assist emergency transport personnel as needed. Maintains equipment and facilities; performs safety and equipment checks on vehicle and equipment; inspects, cleans, and maintains fire hose, pumps, hydrants and related equipment, performs cleanup and overhaul work. Cleans and maintains the fire station and grounds; cuts grass and shrubbery. Participates in continuing training and instruction program by individual study of technical material and attendance at scheduled drills and classes. Conducts station tours for the public, schools and community demonstrations and programs; provides fire education programs at schools. Assist in fire prevention activities. Performs other firefighting and related emergency tasks Additional Job Duties Performs other duties as assigned in relation to position and the success of the Town’s operation. Recruitment and Selection Guidelines Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Considerable knowledge of modern methods of attacking fire emergencies and of the use and maintenance of firefighting apparatus and equipment. Considerable knowledge of incident response including response to hazardous materials spills and emergency medical service calls. Considerable knowledge of departmental rules and regulations. Thorough knowledge of Town streets and layout. Ability to operate all department equipment and apparatus. Ability to perform mathematical calculations necessary in pump operation. Ability to maintain effective working relationships with employees, volunteers, officials, and members of the public, and to speak effectively before groups in public educational situations. Ability to make sound judgments in emergency situations. Physical Requirements Must be able to physically perform the basic life functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, fingering, feeling, talking, hearing and repetitive motions. Must be able to perform very heavy work exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Must possess visual acuity for depth perception, color perception, night vision, peripheral vision, visual inspection involving small defects and/or small parts, operation of machines, operation of motor vehicles or equipment, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observing general surroundings and activities. Desirable Education and Experience Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school and considerable firefighting experience; or an equivalent combination of experience and education. Special Requirements Possession of an appropriate commercial driver’s license valid in the State of North Carolina. Possession of North Carolina Firefighter II certification Must meet and maintain minimum qualifications for position as established by the department. Ahoskie 2014 2019