Fire Captain

City of Compton•Compton, CA

9d•Onsite

About The Position

Under general direction, the Fire Captain commands the work, training, and discipline of personnel assigned to a fire station during a shift. The Captain has immediate responsibility for station apparatus and equipment and may oversee fire prevention work when assigned by the Fire Chief. As the first-line supervisor, the Captain directs station activities subject to the policies and supervision of the Fire Chief. Until a higher-ranking officer arrives, the Captain commands fireground operations, including equipment selection, equipment placement, and fire-suppression strategy, and remains responsible for effective and efficient extinguishment unless relieved of command. The position responds to fires and other emergencies, directs firefighting and rescue activities, administers first aid, and oversees salvage, cleanup, and post-incident equipment servicing. It also involves supervising station operations, maintaining facilities and equipment, inspecting personnel and apparatus, conducting training, keeping records, and occasionally relieving a Fire Battalion Chief. When assigned, the Captain supervises Fire Prevention Bureau work, including inspections, investigations, enforcement, public education, reporting, and related administrative duties. Applicants must meet the stated education, experience, and licensing qualifications and submit all required supporting documents. The selection process may include a written examination, oral examination, and green cell simulation. The position is with the City of Compton.

Requirements

Education equivalent to high school graduation, plus at least one college-level course in each of Fire Management, Fire Command, Fire Investigation, Fire Prevention, and Fire Instruction; alternatively, an Associate in Science degree in Fire Science from an accredited college may substitute for those courses.
Currently employed as a Fire Engineer or Firefighter with at least four years of service at a municipal fire department.
Possession of a valid California Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.
Ability to meet the physical and health-status requirements for the classification outlined in the City’s Medical Standards for Applicants and Employees.
Thorough knowledge of modern firefighting principles, practices, and procedures and of protecting lives and property.
Thorough knowledge of Compton Fire Department rules and regulations and State and City fire laws and ordinances.
Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of Compton Fire Department apparatus and equipment, and ability to direct their efficient use.
Knowledge of fire-training principles and first aid and resuscitation practices.
Ability to inspect for hazardous conditions and fire-law violations; knowledge of Compton geography and major fire hazards.
Ability to lead personnel, maintain discipline, keep records, and submit reports.

Nice To Haves

State Certification as a Fire Officer is desirable.

Responsibilities

Responds to fire alarms, selects the route, assigns personnel and equipment, and positions the truck for effective operations.
Determines firefighting methods and equipment to use, and commands fireground operations until relieved by the Fire Chief, Deputy Fire Chief, or Fire Battalion Chief.
Supervises and assists with hose lines, water streams and pressure, ladder placement, building ventilation, and rescue operations.
Administers first aid and supervises salvage and cleanup operations.
Ensures equipment is returned, serviced, and maintained after fires.
Takes charge of the fire station during the assigned shift and supervises maintenance and cleaning of quarters, apparatus, and equipment.
Inspects personnel and maintains discipline.
Conducts classes and fire drills, communicates orders and information to crew members, and maintains records.
Occasionally relieves a Fire Battalion Chief.
When assigned, supervises, assigns, and directs Fire Prevention Bureau work.
Inspects explosives and flammable-liquid storage, fire alarm and sprinkler systems, factories, schools, and other buildings where people gather.
Writes inspection reports, recommends preventive action, enforces State and City fire laws and ordinances, and reports violations.
Investigates the origin and causes of fires.
Speaks to school and civic groups and distributes fire-prevention information through bulletins and pamphlets.
Holds staff meetings with Fire Engineers and Firefighters to discuss special hazards and firefighting problems.
Maintains records of inspections, investigations, and related activities, and performs administrative assignments as directed.