Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
DEFINITION
Plan, direct, manage and oversee the activities and operations of the Fire Department including fire suppression, hazardous materials management, fire code compliance, emergency medical services, training and administrative support services; to coordinate assigned activities with other departments and outside agencies; and to provide highly responsible and complex administrative support to the City Manager.
JOB CLASSIFICATION
Exempt, Safety Sensitive.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general administrative direction from the City Manager.
Exercises direct supervision over management, supervisory, professional and technical staff.
PRIMARY DUTIES--The following are examples of primary duties assigned to positions in this classification. Other related duties and responsibilities may be assigned.
1. Assume full management responsibility for all department services and activities including fire suppression, hazardous materials management, fire code compliance, emergency medical services, training and administrative support services; recommend and administer policies and procedures.
2. Manage the development and implementation of departmental goals, objectives, policies and priorities for each assigned service area.
3. Establish, within City policy, appropriate service and staffing levels; monitor and evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery methods and procedures; allocate resources accordingly.
4. Plan, direct and coordinate, through subordinate level staff, the Fire Department's work plan; assign projects and programmatic areas of responsibility; review and evaluate work methods and procedures; meet with key staff to identify and resolve problems.
5. Assess and monitor work load, administrative and support systems, and internal reporting relationships; identify opportunities for improvement; direct and implement changes.
6. Respond to major fire alarms and direct fire suppression activities as necessary.
7. Select, train, motivate and evaluate assigned personnel; provide or coordinate staff training; work with employees to correct deficiencies; implement discipline and termination procedures.
8. Oversee and participate in the development and administration of the department budget; approve the forecast of funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials and supplies; approve expenditures and implement budgetary adjustments as appropriate and necessary.
9. Explain, justify and defend department programs, policies and activities; negotiate and resolve sensitive and controversial issues.
10. Represent the Fire Department to other departments, elected officials and outside agencies; coordinate assigned activities with those of other departments and outside agencies and organizations.
11. Provide staff assistance to the City Manager; participate on a variety of boards, commissions and committees; prepare and present staff reports and other necessary correspondence.
12. Attend and participate in professional group meetings; stay abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of fire safety.
13. Respond to and resolve difficult and sensitive citizen inquiries and complaints.
QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
Operations, services and activities of a municipal fire department.
Principles and practices of fire suppression, prevention and investigation.
Emergency service operations including fire suppression, hazardous materials response, emergency medical and associated services.
Operational characteristics of fire apparatus and equipment.
Principles and practices of supervision, training and performance evaluation.
Principles and practices of program development and administration.
Principles and practices of municipal budget preparation and administration.
Pertinent Federal, State and local laws, codes and regulations.
Ability to:
Manage and direct the operations and activities of a municipal fire department.
Develop and administer departmental goals, objectives and procedures.
Analyze and assess programs, policies and operational needs and make appropriate adjustments.
Identify and respond to sensitive community and organizational issues, concerns and needs.
Plan, organize, direct and coordinate the work of lower level staff
Delegate authority and responsibility.
Select, supervise, train and evaluate staff.
Analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions and implement recommendations in support of goals.
Plan, direct and review fire operations, safety code compliance and emergency medical services.
Interpret and make decisions in accordance with laws, regulations and policies.
Research, analyze and evaluate new service delivery methods and techniques.
Prepare clear and concise administrative and financial reports.
Prepare and administer large and complex budgets.
Interpret and apply applicable Federal, State and local policies, laws and regulations.
Work irregular hours as necessary for the smooth operation of the department.
Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Speak, read, comprehend, and write the English language fluently.
Experience and Training Guidelines
Minimum Requirements:
Experience:
Ten (10) years of progressively responsible fire service experience, with two years in a Chief Officer Position (e.g. Battalion, Division, Assistant, Deputy Fire Chief, or Fire Chief).
Training:
Associates degree in Fire Science, Fire Service Administration, Public Administration, or a related field.
Other combinations of experience and education that meet the minimum requirements may be substituted.
License or Certificate
Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Colorado driver's license.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Environmental Conditions:
Office environment; exposure to computer screens.; occasional fire fighting environment.
Physical Conditions:
The job is characterized by:
Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally and all other sedentary criteria are met.
The following physical activities are very or extremely important in accomplishing the job’s purpose and are performed on a daily basis:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to sit for prolonged periods. The employee is regularly required to see, hear, talk, stand, twist and use repetitive motions in the conduct of work. The employee is also required to perform light lifting.