Assistant Chief - Fire Prevention, Training, and Health & Safety

SUMMARY

The Assistant Chief is responsible for planning, implementing, and managing key fire department programs, including fire prevention and protection, training, and health and safety. This position oversees program development, execution, compliance, and improvement efforts, ensuring all fire and emergency services personnel are properly trained, protected, and operating in accordance with local, federal, and DoD regulations and standards.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Fire Prevention Program

• Administers a comprehensive fire prevention program including hazard assessment inspections, public education, fire protection engineering, and fire extinguisher maintenance.
• Develops and implements policies and procedures in coordination with the Fire Chief and supervisory staff.
• Maintains current knowledge of base structures, fire systems, and fire-related hazards.
• Prepares and manages inspection schedules for facilities and suppression/detection systems.
• Conducts follow-up inspections for malfunctioning or repaired fire protection systems.
• Prepares contract specifications and supporting documentation for fire protection services.
• Recommends resource allocation for fire prevention efficiency and effectiveness.
• Oversees base fire deficiency reviews and drives corrective actions.
• Promotes fire safety through public relations efforts, training programs, media, and demonstrations.
• Uses building codes and manuals to conduct investigations and recommend hazard mitigation measures.
• Coordinates on construction and renovation projects to ensure fire protection compliance.

Training Program

• Plans and manages comprehensive training programs for all fire protection personnel.
• Ensures training materials and lesson plans align with International Fire Service Training Association (IFSTA) standards.
• Maintains and updates training reference materials, including NFPA handbooks, USAF directives, and CDC manuals.
• Conducts recurring proficiency training across all fire protection functions.
• Leads structural and aircraft firefighting, hazardous material, and Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) training exercises.
• Evaluates individual and team performance during exercises and emergencies, providing coaching and guidance.
• Serves as department liaison to the base Exercise and Evaluation Team, providing evaluations and post-incident analysis.
• Coordinates training resource planning and maintains instructor readiness.

Health and Safety Program

• Develops and integrates health and safety protocols into all fire emergency service operations.
• Manages risk management plans, safety policies, and inspection programs.
• Conducts facility inspections and enforces corrective actions for safety hazards and code violations.
• Leads fire department health initiatives including physical fitness, nutrition, wellness, and injury rehabilitation programs.
• Provides technical safety training in hazardous materials handling, scene management, and equipment usage.
• Prepares safety materials and promotes awareness through safety campaigns and briefings.
• Evaluates new safety trends and integrates best practices into departmental procedures.
• Serves as Incident Safety Officer, monitoring scene safety and halting operations when imminent hazards are present.
• Ensures compliance with NFPA 1521 and other safety standards for fire suppression, EMS, technical rescue, and HAZMAT operations.
• Collects and analyzes incident and mishap data to identify trends and recommend preventative actions.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provides leadership, coaching, and support to subordinate fire personnel.
• Identifies training and development needs and coordinates opportunities.
• Ensures adherence to safety protocols and promotes a culture of continuous improvement.
• Applies Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) principles in all supervisory actions.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES

• In-depth knowledge of fire prevention, protection systems, and suppression techniques.
• Expertise in fire safety codes, regulations, and engineering principles.
• Proven ability to design and lead complex training and education programs.
• Familiarity with hazardous materials response and CBRNE incident management.
• Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills.
• Ability to evaluate emergency operations and implement risk mitigation strategies.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent (Bachelor's in Fire Science preferred)
Must Possess the following International Fire Service Accreditation Congress Certifications:

• Fire Officer III
• Fire Instructor III
• Fire Inspector III or new NFPA 1030 Certified Fire Inspector II (CFI-II)
• HAZMAT Incident Commander
• CPR/First Aid
• Health and Safety Officer
• Incident Safety Officer (NFPA 1521 compliance)
• Airport Firefighter
• Air Force Incident Management Course preferred
• Must be able to pass a Firefighter based physical fitness exam and physical agility test
• Must be able to meet NFPA vision standard; uncorrected vision of 20/100 or better and corrected vision of 20/40 or better
• Valid State Driver's License
• Must pass drug, background and driver's record screening

Experience: Minimum 10 years of progressive fire service experience, including 5 years in a supervisory or management role.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work may involve exposure to extreme temperatures, smoke, hazardous materials, and physically demanding tasks during emergency response.
• On-call responsibilities and irregular hours may be required.
• Must meet physical fitness and medical standards for fire personnel.