Fire Apparatus Operator

Job Opportunities

Thank you for your interest in employment with Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation. We employ a broad range of qualified applicants with experience for positions at our different locations.

Preference in filling vacancies is given to qualified American Indian and Alaska Native candidates in accordance with the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 (Title 25, USC, Section 472). If you are claiming Indian Preference, you must submit your Tribal documentation with your application.

• Associate's degree equivalent to four (4) years of experience
• Bachelor's degree equivalent to eight (8) years of experience

The Fire Apparatus Operator (ENOP) for the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation Department of Public Safety serves as the primary assistant to the Engine Captain, ensuring the high-readiness of fire suppression resources. The Operator is responsible for the safe maneuvering of heavy apparatus, the execution of complex pumping operations, and the maintenance of the engine fleet. In the absence of the Fire Captain, the Operator assumes the role of crew leader, providing tactical command on the fireline and overseeing the safety and welfare of personnel.

This position requires a commitment to protecting Tribal lands and upholding the cultural values of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation.

All Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation employees must submit to a background check and abide by all Tribal, federal, and state laws. All employees must comply with Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation drug free workplace policy and will be subject to pre-employment, random, for-cause, and post-accident drug and alcohol testing. Qualified American Indian Preference applies.

This is a full-time position and subject to a seasonal layoff based on funding.

• Performs regular mechanical inspections and preventative maintenance on the engine fleet while ensuring all hand tools and power equipment are repaired and mission ready.
• Acts as the lead for the crew and engine module in the absence of the captain, managing all on-scene operations and crew welfare.
• Calculates engine pressures and manages complex water delivery systems, including long hose lays and drafting from natural water sources.
• Implements prescribed cultural burns and traditional fire applications to enhance ecological health and reduce hazardous fuel loads on Tribal lands.
• Sizes up new fire starts and determines the most effective tools and tactics to contain the fire quickly and safely.
• Operates the engine during "pump-and-roll" maneuvers, directing water application while driving alongside the fire's edge.
• Provides on-the-job training to junior firefighters in wildland fire behavior, radio communication, and navigation.
• Evaluates environmental hazards like weather changes and fuel types to maintain "Lookouts, Communications, Escape Routes, and Safety Zones" (LCES).
• Directs fire suppression tactics that prioritize the preservation of sensitive cultural sites and natural resources.
• Manages the inventory of specialized wildland supplies, ensuring the engine is fully stocked for self-sufficient 24-hour operations.
• Communicates and collaborates effectively with federal, state, and local fire agencies during multi-jurisdictional incidents.
• Maintains accurate logs for engine run-time, pump hours, and incident records to meet both Tribal and national reporting standards.
• Ensures inspection, maintenance, and operational readiness of apparatus, pumps, tools, and personal protective equipment in accordance with departmental and NWCG standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

All Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation employees are expected to consistently demonstrate the organization’s values: integrity, cultural sensitivity and respect for traditional values, continual learning and improving, compassion, teamwork and pride. Employees are expected to demonstrate integrity, professionalism, accountability, cooperation with and consideration of others.

All Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation employees are expected to have general knowledge of typical office technologies such as computers, printers, copiers, fax machines, and typical office software.

• Knowledge of Tribal government operations, policies, and procedures, particularly as they relate to public safety and emergency services.
• Familiarity with local, state, and federal public safety partners, including USFS, BIA, CAL FIRE, and neighboring fire agencies.
• Understanding of S-290 concepts, including the influence of fuel types, local topography, and weather patterns on fire behavior to ensure effective tactical deployments and crew safety.
• Expertise in the "Lookouts, Communications, Escape Routes, and Safety Zones" (LCES) system and interagency safety standards.
• Technical expertise in mobile attack techniques and water delivery systems, specifically the operation and maintenance of Type 3, 4, or 6 engines and portable pumps (S-211) in off-road and wildland urban interface environments.
• Proficiency in using interagency radio…