This is supervisory work in the protection of life and property through the provision of firefighting and emergency medical rescue services or in specialized fire service functions.

Employees in this class are responsible for supervising the work of a shift of firefighters assigned to a unit or station, engaged in providing either firefighting services or emergency medical rescue services, or serving in various capacities in specialized fire service activities. Assignments may include combat or rescue duty, staff training, fire prevention, inspection and enforcement activities, fire safety education, arson investigation and other fire safety functions. Work involves an element of personal danger and incumbents must be able to exercise leadership and independent judgment in combat and medical rescue situations under adverse circumstances. Supervision is exercised over subordinate firefighters assigned to a fire/rescue shift or to a fire support activity. Supervision is received from a senior fire officer who reviews work through personal conferences, inspections and conferences for adherence to departmental procedures and orders and for effectiveness in meeting assigned responsibilities.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS

Supervises, participates and supports a unit of firefighters in responding to various types of alarms in order to contain, suppress and/or extinguish fires, preserve life and property and to structure the nature of the department's response.

Participates in and oversees various types of rescue activities to assure the delivery of emergency medical services and establish and maintain control of an emergency scene.

Writes, compiles and reviews various narrative and statistical reports, logs and investigative studies in order to present findings, provide information, document work activities and equipment utilization, and justify and project needs.

Assigns and assists subordinates in cleaning and checking the condition of equipment, materials, supplies and property assigned to an operational unit to maintain appropriate inventory levels and operational readiness.

Inspects commercial, industrial, residential and public properties and structures, and fire hydrants in order to assure compliance with applicable fire codes, become familiar with lay-out of existing structures, write notices of violations and issue citations where necessary.

Conducts classroom and field training sessions concerning fire safety, fire suppression and emergency medical rescue activities.

Attends various meetings, conferences and training sessions to keep abreast of developments in the firefighting field.

Reviews plans and building permit applications to assure compliance with applicable laws, codes and ordinances.

Investigates undetermined, suspicious and incendiary fire scenes to determine point of origin, causes of the fire and to gather data relevant to preventing recurrences.

Disseminates fire and emergency medical rescue information through public speaking engagements, media presentations and tours of fire facilities to promote awareness of fire hazards, fire prevention practices and departmental operations.

Counsels subordinates on work related problems; evaluates and rates employee performance.

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGES, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Considerable knowledge of modern firefighting and fire prevention techniques, practices and methods.

Considerable knowledge of modern emergency medical rescue techniques, practices and methods learned through training.

Considerable knowledge of the operation and general maintenance of the various types of apparatus and equipment used in firefighting and emergency medical rescue work.

Considerable knowledge of fire safety regulations, codes and ordinances.

Knowledge of the geography of the Miami-Dade County geographical area.

Knowledge of supervisory principles and practices.

Knowledge of the fundamental principles of hydraulics.

Knowledge of departmental regulations and procedures.

Knowledge of the various methods and styles of leadership.

Ability to lead a group of firefighters in combat situations or emergency medical rescue activities under adverse conditions.

Ability to supervise subordinate firefighters in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale.

Ability to react promptly and correctly in emergency situations.

Ability to assess a situation; draw valid conclusions and take appropriate action.

Ability to read, retain and apply guidelines, regulations and policies to a variety of situations.

Ability to understand and carry out verbal and written instructions.

Ability to work together with others as part of a team.

Ability to use basic hand and power tools.

Ability to read, interpret and comprehend diagrams, charts and gauges.

Ability to train subordinates in various specialized techniques of firefighting and fire prevention.

Ability to explain pertinent provisions of laws, codes and regulations to citizens, businessmen and other officials and enforce fire safety laws with firmness, tact and impartiality.

Ability to maintain records and prepare clear and concise reports of activities.

Physical strength and agility sufficient to perform assigned duties including physical tasks requiring sustained effort.

REV 12/98