Fire Marshal

City of Foster City
Estero Municipal Improvement District
Job Specification
 
DEFINITION:
Performs responsible management, technical and administrative work in developing and implementing a comprehensive fire prevention and loss management program.
 
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS, FEATURES, REQUIREMENTS:
This is a full-time management position working a regular, 40-hour workweek. This classification is distinguished from the next higher classification of Assistant Fire Chief in that the latter is responsible for the administration of all department operations and services.
 
SUPERVISION EXERCISED AND RECEIVED:
Receives general direction from the Fire Chief. Indirect, technical and functional supervision is provided for other sworn and non-sworn fire personnel.
 
IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
Assists in the development and implementation of policies, goals, objectives and priorities; develops, supervises and implements a comprehensive fire prevention and loss management program; directs, supervises, assists and advises the activities and work assignments of both sworn and non-sworn fire prevention personnel; evaluates existing fire safety conditions considering federal, state and local codes applicable to fire safety; researches, presents and recommends revisions to policies, procedures and ordinances; develops and implements procedural methods and practices in reviewing plans, conducting inspections and investigating fire loss incidents; coordinates the activities of fire prevention with other programs of the Fire Department with other departments and divisions of the City, particularly the planning and building safety functions; represents the Fire Department before the City Council, Boards, and Committees on fire prevention matters; meets with architects, engineers, contractors and others involved in development and construction activities affecting the City's fire loss management programs; supervises and participates in the conduct of fire loss investigations, determining the origin, cause and loss value of fire incidents, collecting evidence and participating in prosecution activities when necessary; makes comprehensive, technical plan checks of proposed projects to determine fire safety conditions and needs; conducts field inspections of construction projects; develops and maintains a variety of records and reports; assists in budget preparation and administration; supervises and trains other personnel in fire prevention and related technical areas; undertakes and assists with special projects, reports and studies; represents the City in relationships with the public, community groups, professional organizations, other City departments and divisions, outside agencies; respond to difficult complaints and requests for information.
 
JOB-RELATED QUALIFICATIONS:
 
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
 
Knowledge of:  principles, methods and practices of fire loss prevention management; applicable federal, state and local codes, ordinances and regulations; mechanical, chemical and related characteristics for a wide variety of flammable and explosive materials and objects; principles and practices of administration, budgeting and personnel management.
 
Ability to:  plan, organize and participate in comprehensive fire prevention and loss management programs; develop, revise and assure compliance with fire loss management policies and procedures; investigate fires and determine their origin and cause; maintain accurate and thorough records, files and reference materials; read and interpret construction plans and specifications; establish and maintain effective and cooperative working relationships with a variety of people in all city departments, citizens, and professional contacts; supervise and train others.
 
EDUCATION AND TRAINING GUIDELINES:
Any combination equivalent to experience and education that could likely provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities would be qualifying. A typical way would be:
 
Education:  An Associate degree or equivalent in Fire Science or a closely related field. A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or Public Administration is desirable.
 
Experience:  Five years of experience involving suppression and prevention activities and inspection of structures for conformance to fire safety standards and systems, including supervisory experience.
 
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Ability to learn, retain and apply technical information, terminology, equipment and guidelines; mental alertness and comprehension involved in carrying out essential duties; physical stamina and strength to sit, stand, walk, kneel, crouch, stoop, squat, twist upper body, climb and lift moderate weight; ability to remain calm and cooperative in difficult or emergency situations.
 
LICENSES, CERTIFICATES, REGISTRATION:
 
Licenses:  Possession of a valid California Class C Driver's License.
 
Certificates:  Certification as a State Fire Prevention Officer III is desirable.