Fire Battalion Chief

The purpose of this classification is to manage staff and operations of multiple stations on an assigned shift for the Fire Department.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manages, directs, and evaluates assigned staff, processing employee concerns and problems, directing work, counseling, disciplining, and completing employee performance appraisals.
• Manages activities of multiple fire stations on an assigned shift: directs firefighting operations, technical rescue, hazardous materials incidents, emergency medical operations, natural disasters and other emergency incidents; disseminates all communications to assigned personnel regarding directives, general orders, special orders, and standard operating procedures; and ensures implementation of and adherence to all directives, general orders, special orders, and standard operating procedures.
• Performs incident command functions at fire and emergency scenes: responds to calls involving fire, hazardous materials, natural and manmade disasters, evacuation and/or sheltering, rescue, and other critical incidents; assumes incident command of fire/emergency scenes until relieved by commanding officer; assesses and evaluates on-scene conditions; determines strategy and tactics; provides direction and coordination of manpower and resources; directs firefighting and/or rescue activities; ensures utilization of proper methods to suppress/control fires and preserve evidence; and supervises fire communications.
• Oversees strategic placement of equipment to best address an emergency incident or fire attack: ensures perimeter security and directs scene activities of subordinates; coordinates activities of all responder units; and ensures the safety of crews under charge.
• Plans, schedules, conducts and records staff training: ensures personnel receive adequate training and maintain an adequate level of physical fitness to perform job duties; monitors certification and recertification requirements for assigned personnel; and ensures assigned personnel maintain current knowledge, skills and abilities in the application of fire science technologies.
• Participates in the department’s administration activities: attends management meetings; disseminates written communications; participates in policy development; and assists with budget development and administration.
• Conducts station rounds to inspect/review condition of equipment, apparatus, protective clothing, and facilities: oversees general maintenance work necessary to keep vehicles, buildings, quarters, hydrants, apparatus, equipment and tools in operable condition; ensures station and personnel maintain a state of readiness/preparation for emergency response; and maintains related documentation and records.
• Maintains a comprehensive, current knowledge and awareness of applicable laws, regulations, policies and procedures: maintains an awareness of new equipment, trends and advances in the profession; maintains professional affiliations and required certifications; coordinates and participates in multi-jurisdictional training; and attends shift meetings, workshops and seminars as appropriate.
• Manages and participates in the performance of public relations and education duties: provides fire safety and prevention information, education and training, and pre-fire planning to the community; conducts fire safety programs, apparatus displays and skills demonstrations; conducts tours of fire station and fire trucks; conducts safety inspections at schools and businesses; inspects hoses and hydrants; and participates in community events.
• Prepares, reviews, and evaluates all administrative and operational records and reports: compiles data and information regarding response calls, incidents, inspections, statistical details, staff training, resource allocation, post-incident analysis and related records and data; analyzes, assesses and develops strategies to meet current and future issues and concerns regarding emergency response; and prepares and submits reports and recommendations regarding the same.
• Perform other duties of a similar nature or level.