Battalion Chief

Position Information

Grade: ES-13;
Job Class:
Supervisory;
Work Comp: 7704; EEO Class/Code: 1/Officials/Administrators;
Tier Status: 1.

This is a skilled, technical and managerial position supervising multiple fire officers, paramedics, firefighters, EMTs and Surf & Beach Rescue personnel. Performs and manages all aspects of medical care to the sick and injured, firefighting, fire prevention, hazardous materials incidents, public relations, basic preventative maintenance of apparatus, equipment and stations. Works under the immediate supervision of both the Assistant Chief – Operations and Assistant Chief – Chief Medical Officer;

however, considerable independent judgment and initiative are exercised in carrying out the daily operations.

Position is limited to 24-hours of overtime per month. All overtime must be approved by the Chief of Emergency Services or Deputy Chief. Failure to obtain permission for unscheduled overtime will result in immediate discipline. Overtime resulting from an emergency call that overlaps shift change will not require preapproval but will be subtracted from 24-hour allotment.

• Assumes command on arrival at the scene of a fire or other emergency and directs lifesaving / firefighting activities until conclusion or relief by superior Officer. Determines need for additional resources and directs proper deployment upon arrival at emergency scenes.
• Supervises subordinate personnel.
• Performs basic or advanced life support functions commensurate with level of training concerning prehospital treatment and transport.
• Responds to fire alarms and other emergencies and forwards information to the proper authorities.
• Performs basic firefighting operations such as hose connecting, rescue service, and other operations to combat fires.
• Performs general fire and EMS station household duties including hose, apparatus ambulance and equipment cleaning, drying, and minor maintenance and repair work.
• Participates in practice drills in classroom and field training programs to maintain the knowledge, skills and abilities required to meet the National Fire Protection Association standards as outlined in Chapter 5 of NFPA 1001, NFPA 1002, and Chapter 4 of NFPA 1021.
• Studies hydrant, fire alarm, street and business district maps, and formulates pre-emergency plans, including tactical surveys of buildings. Ensures that information regarding life safety hazards is conveyed to appropriate company officers.
• Assists in identifying Department of Emergency Services capital improvement needs.
• Plans, manages and executes public education programs.
• Assists in training programs for volunteer and career firefighters.
• Abides by all departmental and division rules and regulations.
• Ensures proper documentation of all division activities. Ensures operational readiness, personal safety and adherence to policy for assigned personnel.
• Ensures operational readiness of Fire and EMS apparatus and equipment.
• Prepares budget estimates of anticipated expenditures, identifies capital improvement needs and enforces county budget and purchasing policies.
• Assists in investigation of personnel matters. Provides finding to Assistant Chiefs for their review and possible action.
• Ensures that all personnel acting under the direction of the County’s authorized Medical Director follow protocols and adheres to training and behavior acceptable to the licensed physician acting as Medical Director for all emergency medical tasks.
• Conducts staff meetings to discuss policies, procedures and emerging issues.
• Observes the quality of work performed by subordinates.
• Evaluates subordinate’s effectiveness during emergencies, station activities, and special assignments. Prepares reports as required.
• Manages classroom and field training programs to ensure maintenance of knowledge, skills and abilities required for division to meet National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards.
• Ensures subordinate’s familiarity with hydrants, fire alarms, streets, homes, businesses and related infrastructure.
• The employer may add to or change duties at any time and as determined by the County and its leaders to best ensure that the public is served through…