Assistant Fire Chief

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Under the direction of the Fire Chief, the Assistant Fire Chief assists in the development and daily operations of the Avenal Fire Department. This position plays a crucial role in the hands‑on management of professional firefighters, emergency response operations, training programs, and fire prevention activities. The Assistant Fire Chief serves as the primary operational leader, ensuring effective emergency response, coordinating shift operations and activities, and maintaining departmental readiness.

This position directly supervises professional firefighters during emergency operations and training exercises while supporting the Fire Chief in administrative functions and department development.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:

This is a key operational position within Avenal's professional fire department structure, serving as the bridge between administrative leadership and frontline operations. The Assistant Fire Chief has direct responsibility for firefighter coordination, emergency response leadership, and operational training delivery. The incumbent works closely with professional firefighting staff, manages day‑to‑day emergency services, and ensures the department maintains operational readiness. This position requires both administrative capabilities and hands‑on emergency response skills with responsibility for shift supervision and personnel management.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTION STATEMENTS
--Essential responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Operations Management:

• Directly supervise and coordinate professional firefighters during emergency responses and training activities
• Develop and maintain shift scheduling systems and personnel deployment strategies
• Serve as primary point of contact for firefighting personnel regarding operational matters
• Oversee daily station operations and ensure proper staffing levels
• Implement personnel development and performance management programs

Emergency Response Operations:

• Respond to and assume command of emergency incidents as assigned or in the absence of the Fire Chief
• Direct fire suppression, emergency medical services, and hazardous materials response operations
• Coordinate with professional firefighters to ensure effective emergency response operations
• Maintain incident command protocols and ensure proper documentation of emergency responses
• Coordinate mutual aid responses with neighboring fire departments

Training and Development:

• Plan, organize, and conduct comprehensive training programs for professional firefighters
• Ensure all personnel maintain required certifications and training standards
• Develop training schedules and coordinate continuing education programs
• Coordinate with outside agencies for specialized training opportunities
• Maintain training records and documentation for all department personnel
• Conduct performance evaluations and identify training needs

Fire Prevention and Inspection Services:

• Conduct fire prevention inspections of commercial and residential properties
• Investigate fire incidents and prepare detailed reports
• Enforce fire prevention codes and ordinances within the community
• Provide fire safety education to community groups and organizations
• Review building plans and development proposals for fire code compliance

Administrative Support:

• Assist the Fire Chief in leadership development and administration of departmental policies and procedures
• Help manage departmental budgets and track expenditures
• Prepare operational reports and maintain departmental records
• Participate in budget development and capital expenditure planning
• Support grant writing efforts and equipment procurement processes
• Participate in personnel recruitment and selection processes

Equipment and Facility Management:

• Oversee maintenance and repair of fire department equipment, apparatus, and facilities
• Conduct regular equipment inspections and ensure operational readiness
• Coordinate equipment testing and…