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City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

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Fire Specialist


FLSA: Fire 40 EEO Category: (40) Protect/Svc
Class Code: 14025 Salary Grade: F06
Approved: Last Revised: June 29, 2015


Purpose:
 
Perform routine firefighting work under moderate supervision. Work involves operating and driving fire apparatus in response to fire alarms and other emergency calls to protect life and property. 


Duties, Functions and Responsibilities:
  Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.
1. Responds to emergency and non-emergency requests, drive fire apparatus using the most direct route in accordance to department policies and procedures and manufacturer guidelines
2. Operates fire pumps, aerial ladders and selects equipment from the apparatus to accomplish desired results in accordance to departmental policies and guidelines 
3. Locates apparatus at emergencies for appropriate action determining required fire flow, friction loss and nozzle pressure 
4. Checks, cleans, and assists in firefighting, ventilation, overhaul and salvage operations 
5. Performs daily inspection, routine care and maintenance of fire apparatus to ensure operational readiness reporting any safety or mechanical problems to appropriate personnel
6. Completes appropriate documentation and reports in a timely manner and in accordance with administrative guidelines 
7. Assists in rescue operations and emergency medical care by rendering emergency medical assistance to patients as defined by EMS protocol and as directed by authorized medical personnel
8. Participates in drills, demonstrations, and instructional courses on fire apparatus, hydraulics, pump operation and maintenance, and firefighting techniques
9. Participates in home inspections  and conducts fire station tours for the public
Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:
 
May provide leadership, work assignments, evaluation, training and guidance to others.
May be required to assume supervisory role as Acting Company Officer.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.
Knowledge of application of driving theory and principles of fire apparatus.
Knowledge of department and city regulations regarding safe driving policies and practices.
Knowledge of fire tools and equipment maintenance/upkeep.
Knowledge of City Codes relative to fire safety.
Skill in making sound decisions in critical situations.
Skill in effectively instructing personnel.
Ability to maintain current required licenses and certifications.
Minimum Qualifications:
 
Education and/or Equivalent Experience:
Commissioned as a Firefighter plus two (2) years of service as a  firefighter in the Austin Fire Department.
Eligible to promote to Fire Specialist with completion of all appropriate Civil Service examinations.
Fire Inspector certification within one (1) year of promotion.

Licenses and Certifications Required:
 
Valid and current Texas Class B exempt driver’s license.  
Current Firefighter/EMT certifications and credentialing by the Office of the Medical Director.


This description is intended to indicate the kinds of tasks and levels of work difficulty required of the position given this title and shall not be construed as declaring what the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position shall be. It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of management to assign, direct and control the work of employees under supervision. The listing of duties and responsibilities shall not be held to exclude other duties not mentioned that are of similar kind or level of difficulty.