City of San José
BATTALION CHIEF (2314)
CLASS PURPOSE
Under general direction, plans, organizes and directs the operations, training and maintenance of fire companies in a fire battalion on an assigned shift, or assists in the management of a major bureau within the Fire Department. Does related work as assigned by the bureau head or Fire Chief.
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES
Incumbent performs administrative work on an assigned shift within an assigned fire battalion or major bureau of the Fire Department. Assumes command of fire fighting operations in a fire battalion. Supervises Fire Captains and related subordinate personnel. General direction is received from the Deputy Fire Chief in charge of the assigned bureau.
TYPICAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Any one position may not include all the duties listed, nor do the examples cover all duties which may be performed.)
Is responsible for the readiness of fire battalion staffing, apparatus and equipment to immediately respond to calls for assistance.
Assures a proper state of readiness by scheduling and supervising drills and other training exercises; inspecting fire stations, apparatus and equipment; and by establishing and maintaining a high state of discipline, conduct and morale which will insure acceptable emergency performance.
Enforces Departmental rules and regulations.
Assures that companies use proper methods and techniques when performing emergency medical services (EMS), hazardous materials response, rescue work, fighting fires and engaging in salvage, overhaul and other emergency operations.
Studies and becomes familiar with EMS delivery, streets, intersections, fire hydrants, water mains, sprinkler systems, standpipes, building occupancy and contents, fire prevention practices and arson investigation; the location of utility controls, freezing units, alarm boxes, auxiliary alarms and panels and nonambulatory citizens.
Holds training sessions at battalion fire stations, industrial plants, hospitals and schools, and at the Fire Training Center. Instruction includes, but is not limited to, panic and crowd control; safe and proper use of fire apparatus, equipment and tools; and rescue operations. Training sessions may be delegated, where feasible, to qualified subordinates.
Prepares reports on personnel, equipment, drills, fires and other emergency responses, target hazards, accidents, injuries and performance; keeps an up-to-date log of daily activities and emergencies.
Performs administrative duties as assistant to the Deputy Chief in charge of a major Fire Department bureau and is in charge of the bureau in the the absence of the Deputy Chief. Is subject to emergency call while off duty.
NECESSARY KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
the principles, practices, and equipment used in fighting fires, emergency medical services, containing hazardous materials, and rescuing lives and saving property; the operation and maintenance of fire and rescue apparatus and equipment; the laws, ordinances and regulations which govern Fire Department responsibilities; Fire Department administration and organization; hazardous and flammable materials, evidence of arson or other fire causes for presentation as evidence in court; hydraulics and chemistry as applied to firefighting; principles and practices of training and inspection functions; City geography and the location of water mains, fire hydrants and major fire hazards within an assigned battalion; principles and practices of fire prevention laws and practices.
ABILITY TO:
supervise personnel and equipment in routine and emergency conditions; maintain discipline and morale; command the respect of superiors and subordinates; prepare clear and concise reports; speak and write effectively.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience:
Any of the following combinations of education at an accredited school and experience as a Captain with the San Jose Fire Department:
- Four (4) years experience and graduation from High School or G.E.D.
- Three (3) years experience and 30 college semester credits.
- Two (2) years experience and 60 semester credits.
Additional course work cannot substitute for the minimum two (2) years experience.
Licenses/Certificates
Possession of a valid driver's license authorizing operation of a motor vehicle in California.
B01-2314.SPC