Deputy Fire Marshal

Job description statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this job title. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.

The Deputy Fire Marshal is responsible for managing and directing fire cause/origin and arson investigations for the Fire Marshal's Office (FMO). The position is also responsible for the enforcement of fire code through the performance of life safety code inspections and plans review in commercial occupancies. Occasionally perform residential life safety inspections and home care inspections. Participates in public education and fire prevention activities as assigned.

Assists the Fire Marshal in the performance of professional standards investigations and background investigations within the Fire Department. Manages inspection data and associated reports. Assists the Fire Marshal in other prevention functions as needed. Other duties may include interfacing with other city employees, participating in emergency management functions and assisting citizens. The position manages investigators and inspectors as assigned. Inspect businesses for compliance with fire codes and fire regulations, including hospitals, daycare centers, nursing homes, foster homes, all businesses in general.

Reviews new building plans for new construction. Inspects businesses on complaints of fire hazard. Assists with coordination activities with other departments and agencies. Meets regularly with other agencies, businesses, attorneys, inspectors and experts.

Performs related duties and special projects as assigned. Educates the public concerning fire hazards, safety, prevention and demonstration of proper use of fire equipment. Counsel’s children and juveniles who have problems with fire. Works with various community organizations. Research laws and information to develop ordinances. Maintains certification through training.

Investigates to determine fire origin including searches through burned buildings and vehicles. Supervises the collection and preservation of evidence for analysis and use in possible criminal cases. Photograph the scene of a fire during suppression and investigation. Interviews witnesses, interrogates suspects, confers with other investigators, insurance adjusters, meets with the media, and coordinates with agencies. Takes statements and writes reports, obtains and serves subpoenas, arrests suspects.

Gives depositions or testimony in court for criminal and civil cases. Supervises other fire investigative personnel.

Performs internal professional standards investigations. Reviews complaints and conducts personnel investigations and ensures that all internal investigations adhere to applicable state and federal laws. Interview complainants to identify personnel being accused and to obtain facts concerning complaints. Interview accused to obtain responses to complaints. Collects and preserves evidence including interviews, and physical evidence. Conduct investigations to establish facts supporting complainant or accused, using supportive information from witnesses or tangible evidence.

Submit reports to Fire Chief for review. Conduct background checks for new hires.

Manages training curricula for personnel including annual firearms qualifications, interagency training with Rowlett PD, mandatory courses and in-service training. Identifies training needs, creates and executes training plans and prospectus.

Assists the Assistant Fire Marshal in managing National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) and associated data and reports.

Performs other duties as assigned. Regular, reliable, and non-disruptive attendance is an essential function of this position, as is the ability to create and maintain professional, harmonious working relationships with others. Associate's degree from an accredited university in Fire Science, Public Administration or a closely related field. Seven (7) years of experience with a paid Fire Department or law enforcement agency, five (5) years of which must have been as a Fire Inspector or Arson Investigator, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Extensive knowledge of modern fire prevention principles, procedures, techniques and equipment. Extensive knowledge of building, electrical, mechanical and fire codes. Extensive knowledge of federal, state and local criminal and civil laws and codes related to fire investigation, fire…