Job description statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this job title. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.
The Deputy Fire Marshal is responsible for managing and directing fire cause/origin and arson investigations for the Fire Marshal's Office (FMO). The position is also responsible for the enforcement of fire code through the performance of life safety code inspections and plans review in commercial occupancies. Occasionally perform residential life safety inspections and home care inspections. Participates in public education and fire prevention activities as assigned. Assists the Fire Marshal in the performance of professional standards investigations and background investigations within the Fire Department. Manages inspection data and associated reports. Assists the Fire Marshal in other prevention functions as needed. Other duties may include interfacing with other city employees, participating in emergency management functions and assisting citizens. The position manages investigators and inspectors as assigned.
Inspect businesses for compliance with fire codes and fire regulations, including hospitals, daycare centers, nursing homes, foster homes, all businesses in general. Reviews new building plans for new construction. Inspects businesses on complaints of fire hazard. Assists with coordination activities with other departments and agencies. Meets regularly with other agencies, businesses, attorneys, inspectors and experts.
Performs related duties and special projects as assigned. Educates the public concerning fire hazards, safety, prevention and demonstration of proper use of fire equipment. Counsel’s children and juveniles who have problems with fire. Works with various community organizations. Research laws and information to develop ordinances. Maintains certification through training.
Investigates to determine fire origin including searches through burned buildings and vehicles. Supervises the collection and preservation of evidence for analysis and use in possible criminal cases. Photograph the scene of a fire during suppression and investigation. Interviews witnesses, interrogates suspects, confers with other investigators, insurance adjusters, meets with the media, and coordinates with agencies. Takes statements and writes reports, obtains and serves subpoenas, arrests suspects. Gives depositions or testimony in court for criminal and civil cases. Supervises other fire investigative personnel.
Performs internal professional standards investigations. Reviews complaints and conducts personnel investigations and ensures that all internal investigations adhere to applicable state and federal laws. Interview complainants to identify personnel being accused and to obtain facts concerning complaints. Interview accused to obtain responses to complaints. Collects and preserves evidence including interviews, and physical evidence. Conduct investigations to establish facts supporting complainant or accused, using supportive information from witnesses or tangible evidence. Submit reports to Fire Chief for review. Conduct background checks for new hires.
Manages training curricula for personnel including annual firearms qualifications, interagency training with Rowlett PD, mandatory courses and in-service training. Identifies training needs, creates and executes training plans and prospectus.
Assists the Assistant Fire Marshal in managing National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) and associated data and reports.
Performs other duties as assigned. Regular, reliable, and non-disruptive attendance is an essential function of this position, as is the ability to create and maintain professional, harmonious working relationships with others.
Associate's degree from an accredited university in Fire Science, Public Administration or a closely related field. Seven (7) years of experience with a paid Fire Department or law enforcement agency, five (5) years of which must have been as a Fire Inspector or Arson Investigator, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Extensive knowledge of modern fire prevention principles, procedures, techniques and equipment. Extensive knowledge of building, electrical, mechanical and fire codes. Extensive knowledge of federal, state and local criminal and civil laws and codes related to fire investigation, fire suppression and inspections. Extensive knowledge of inspection techniques. Working knowledge of fire suppression techniques and equipment. Working knowledge of first aid. Working knowledge of firefighting tactics, oil fire control and hydraulics. Ability to conduct internal professional standards and background investigations in accordance with applicable
state and federal laws. Ability to effectively apply standard fire prevention techniques. Ability to act effectively in emergencies and stressful situations. Ability to follow verbal and written instructions. Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing. Ability to establish effective working relationships with employees, other agencies and the general public.
Valid Class "C" driver's license required (Class B non-CDL preferred). Must have and maintain a good driving record in accordance with the driving standards as established by the City of Rowlett. Must report all traffic citations to his/her departmental Director or his/her designee within two working days of receipt.
Intermediate Fire Inspector, and Intermediate Arson Investigator, or higher, required. Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) Intermediate Peace Officer, or higher, required. Certification and experience as a Professional Standards Investigator (Administrative Investigator) is preferred. Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) certification as an Intermediate Firefighter is preferred but not required. TCFP Basic Fire Marshal Certification required within one year of employment.
Must be at least 21 years or older; must not have any felony convictions or disqualifying criminal histories within the past seven years; must be a U.S. citizen; must be able to read and write the English language; must be of good moral character and of temperate and industrious habits. Must be in compliance with applicable local or state legislation.
Work in all types of weather, including inclement weather, and extreme heat from fire scenes. Work in high humidity. Exposure to chemicals, exhaust fumes, smoke from vehicle engines, saws and sirens.
