DEFINITION
The Fire Apparatus Engineer supports Mariposa County Fire primarily by operating Class B or firefighter-restricted fire apparatus under general supervision. This role includes safely driving fire apparatus, performing maintenance on equipment, and assisting with fire suppression, rescue, and fire prevention tasks as needed.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
The Fire Apparatus Engineer operates advanced firefighting equipment, demonstrates sound independent decision-making, and interacts with the public tactfully and professionally. The position requires knowledge of fire codes, ordinances, laws, and regulations. The incumbent must possess strong organizational skills and the ability to learn and manage various programs, applying specialized training and experience in lifesaving and firefighting methods. This role involves significant physical exertion and exposure to potential health risks while using heavy protective gear and Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) during emergency response.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
The Fire Apparatus Engineer reports to a Fire Captain or higher-ranking officer and provides general supervision to firefighters in emergency and non-emergency activities. This position may assume the role of Incident Commander until relieved by a higher-ranking officer.
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Safely drives and operates operating Class B or Fire Fighter restricted apparatus fire apparatus such as engines and Water Tenders.
Perform general maintenance and minor repair work for the assigned County fire stations, including but not limited to painting, cleaning, repairing water lines, etc.
Maintain the grounds of the assigned County Fire Stations by sweeping, weed control, pruning, watering, trimming, mowing, fertilizing, and maintaining the irrigation systems.
Work with and assists Fire Prevention Inspectors with the general public to conduct fire safety presentations and inspections and provide information regarding fire prevention.
Respond to emergency calls, fire alarms, and non-emergency calls to perform necessary firefighting and medical responder work.
Perform a variety of routine Firefighting skills and techniques, including safely operating tools and equipment that assist and/or are required to perform such tasks.
Work within immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) conditions such as enters burning buildings to remove persons from danger or as a coordinated strategy/tactic to prevent further fire damage; performs salvage and overhaul tactics as directed; ventilates by breaching walls or roofs inside/outside and top of buildings to release heat and smoke; places salvage covers to prevent damage; overhauls and cleans up after a fire to prevent rekindling; checks fire scene for point of origin and source of ignition, and preserves evidence which may indicate arson or cause of fire.
Participate in drills and training sessions; compiles and submits information on equivalent runs, accidents, and fire inspections.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience:
Any combination equivalent to experience and training that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities would be qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge, skills, and abilities would be:
High School Diploma or GED.
Certification in Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator 1A and 1B Pumping Apparatus Operations through the State Fire Marshal.
Valid Class B or firefighter-restricted apparatus driver’s license with eligibility for the County’s vehicle insurance program.
Successful completion of Physical Agility Test [California Physical Ability Test (CPAT) or North County Regional Physical Abilities Test (NCRPAT)] or successful completion of the Mariposa County physical agility exam. (Candidates must provide a copy of current CPAT/NCRPAT card of completion at the time of selection interview).
Certification in Title 22-compliant Public Safety First Aid and CPR or higher.
Preferred:
Completion of a Firefighter I Academy (SFT IFSAAC/Proboard Firefighter I, CAL FIRE FF1A, FF1B, FF1C or equivalent).
Two (2) years of firefighter experience.
Additional Requirements: As a condition of employment, all prospective employees shall be required to be fingerprinted (Live Scan).
EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS
Knowledge of:
Building construction, fire chemistry, physics, and automotive mechanics.
Current local, state, and federal laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to the safety and protection of people, property, and grounds associated with the County and its surrounding areas.
Fire prevention methods and procedures, including fire scene preservation for investigation and identification of cause and origin.
Fire management and control procedures and prevention techniques.
Disaster preparedness response strategies.
Principles of human behavior and behavior modification strategies and techniques to identify at-risk people.
Emergency communication techniques, including equipment and its use.
Use and care of fire safety measures and control tactics.
Safe driving principles and practices.
Safety policies and safe work practices applicable to the work being performed.
Local geography, County streets, state highways, public buildings, and businesses.
Principles and practices of sound business communication, including proper English usage, grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Record keeping and report preparation techniques to ensure department compliance.
Standard office practices and procedures and the operations of standard office equipment.
Fire pump theory as it relates to fire apparatus.
Pre-fire plan development for risk mitigation.
Ability to:
React calmly, make sound decisions, and show flexibility in emergency situations.
Represent the department effectively in interactions with other agencies, the media, and the public.
Promote equity and inclusion by fostering a culturally responsive, respectful service environment.
Exercise sound judgment, adaptability, and creativity in response to changing situations and needs.
Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with colleagues, community members, and other stakeholders.
Interpret and apply departmental policies, procedures, laws, and codes accurately and consistently.
Manage multiple tasks with efficiency, maintains detailed records, and prepare reports that ensure departmental compliance.
Meet department fitness standards, perform strenuous activities in emergencies, and maintain composure under high-stress conditions.
Skill to:
Build trust and confidence in the Fire Department and CAL FIRE through positive interactions and public engagement.
Communicate respectfully and effectively with Chief Officers, staff, and the public; able to adapt messages for audiences with different levels of knowledge.
Make clear and effective oral presentations to diverse audiences.
Calculate fire pump applications accurately, operating firefighting tools, and using standard business software.
Gather, evaluate, and interpret information to apply relevant policies, laws, and codes effectively.
Demonstrate tact, diplomacy, and respect when dealing with sensitive issues and people in challenging situations.
