NW Fire Blog

Fire Engineer
City of Colton, San Bernardino County

Fire

For more info contact:
hrdept@ci.colton.ca.us
(909) 370-5062

Close Date: Jan 3, 2013
Salary: $5,725.00 – $6,959.00 Monthly

FIRE ENGINEER

In-House/Lateral

Final Filing Date: January 3, 2013

Salary: $5,725-$6,959 per month.

Paramedic bonus of $150.00 per month.

Benefits: The City offers an attractive benefit package to include 3% at 55 CalPERS retirement plan; Cafeteria Plan – $990/month to purchase medical, dental & vision insurance; City paid life insurance and Employee Assistance Program (48/96 work schedule).

NOTE: As of December 13, 2012, employees in the position are subject to retirements benefits through PERS under a retirement formula of 3% at 55. However, employees hired in the position on or after January 1, 2013, may be subject to a different retirement formula in accordance with AB 340.

THE CITY GOVERNMENT

Founded in 1875 and incorporated in 1887, the City of Colton covers an area of approximately 18 square miles. Colton is a general law city operating under the Council/Manager form of government. The operating budget for Fiscal Year 2012/13 is 132 million, including operating and capital expenditures, and reflects approximately 330 full and part-time staff.

THE FIRE DEPARTMENT

The City of Colton is offering an excellent opportunity to join a progressive Fire Department that has a strong Fire Union/Fire Chief working relationship and encourages an outstanding working environment. The Department is constantly staffed, with 10 personnel on duty each day. The Department is also very active in the state-wide mutual aid system with both a Type Three wildland engine and OES Type One engine. The Department encourages member participation in department committees in areas such as EMS, Rescue, Training, HazMat, and Apparatus/Equipment.

THE POSITION

Under the general supervision of the Fire Captain, perform the full array of duties and responsibilities assigned to classes in the Fire Engineer classification, including the operation and maintenance of a variety of fire apparatus and firefighting equipment; participate in firefighting activities, fire prevention inspection and fire training; perform mechanical maintenance on vehicles, equipment and apparatus; demonstrate a full understanding of allapplicable policies, procedures and work associated with assigned duties. Provide BLS level patient care as needed.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

Any combination of education and experience that has provided the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary for a Fire Engineer. A typical way of obtaining the required qualifications is to possess the equivalent of a high school diploma, a valid California driver’s license with a valid Firefighter endorsement, and a satisfactory driving record. Successful completion of 50% of the core classes for an AA/AS in Fire Technology. Possession of valid State of California EMT and CPR Certifications. Possession of a City of Colton Engineer Certification or successful completion of any one of the listed: Driver Operator 1A & 1B, USFS Operator Task Book, BLM’s Engine Operators’ course (ENOP), Geographic Area Engine Academy (GENGAC) or Cal-Fire’s Company Officers’ Academy (COA). Lateral candidates: 12 consecutive months of employment at a city, district, state or federal fire agency serving in the capacity of Fire Engineer.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

Will have experience, knowledge of, and ability in the following areas:

Driving fire-pumping apparatus to alarms and operating pumps at an emergency scene; regulate water pressure through hose lines.
Complex principles, practices and procedures of modern fire fighting and rescue and the operation and general maintenance of fire fighting vehicles, equipment and apparatus.
Purposes and uses of a variety of vehicles, equipment, tools, and apparatus used in fire fighting, rescue, and medical assistance operations.
Applicable Federal, State, and local laws, codes and regulations.
Occupational hazards and standard safety practices.
Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Methods and techniques for record keeping.
Proper English, spelling and grammar.
Demonstrate physical endurance, agility, strength, and stamina in the performance of hazardous tasks under emergency conditions.
- Think and act quickly with good judgment in emergencies.
- Apply applicable laws, codes and regulations.
- Work a variety of shifts including weekends, holidays, and emergency call-back, when off duty.
- Operate an office computer and applicable software.
- Understand and follow oral directions promptly and accurately.
- Work independently.
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships.
- Operate and use equipment for fire fighting, rescue, and medical assistance operations.
- Function as an Emergency Medical Technician performing first aid and CPR.
COMPETENCIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

In addition to the experience and education described heretofore, the ideal candidate will:
- Perform the full array of duties assigned to the Fire Engineer classification including driving fire-pumping apparatus to alarms and operating pumps at an emergency scene; regulate water pressure through hose lines; operate and oversee the use of numerous types of vehicles, equipment, tools and apparatus; operate resuscitators and perform first aid; operate radio equipment.
  - Inspect vehicles, equipment and apparatus; perform general maintenance and minor repair work; identify the need for major repairs; maintain records of maintenance and overhaul.
  - Provide full range of medical aid and life support at an emergency scene; may perform victim extrication; and interact with hospital personnel.
  - Perform duties of Firefighter when pump is not being used at an emergency scene.
  - Demonstrate a full understanding of applicable policies, procedures and work methods with assigned duties. Keep current knowledge of the City geographic layout.
    - Participate in drills and other training.
    - Participate in station maintenance and repair work.
    - Provide quality customer service.
    - Participate in mentoring department personnel.
    - Participate in public education programs in the areas of fire suppression and fire prevention.
    - Test, wash, polish and service fire apparatus and equipment; test, wash and hang hose.
    - Study and maintain knowledge on the City water systems.
    - Participate in engine company fire prevention inspections of local businesses and companies.
    - Respond to questions and concerns from the general public; provide information as is appropriate and resolve complaints.
    - Perform other related duties as required.