Deputy Fire Chief - Operations & Training

This position is responsible for the oversight of the fire suppression and training activities as well as facilitating coordination among the shift commanders to manage the day-to-day operations of the South Burlington Fire Department. Additionally, this position may also be responsible for directing the emergency medical services (EMS), administrative functions, emergency management readiness, and public information activities as needed. Assist the Fire Chief in formulating and reviewing policy regarding public safety needs, reviewing the overall performance of department and its employees, establishing disciplinary procedures, and preparing the budget. Make recommendations on, and manage day-to-day operational budgets, including but not limited to fire suppression and EMS needs, overtime, training, vehicle maintenance, building maintenance, fire prevention, etc. Responds to emergency incidents and when necessary, directs activities including evaluation, mitigation, investigation, and security. Provides for the establishment and implementation of suitable programs of training in fire prevention, firefighting techniques, EMS, maintenance and testing of equipment; develops and issues departmental rules and regulations. Oversees and updates the department's recruit training programs. Oversees and updates the department's probationary employee training program. Maintains and improves the department's professional development programs, to include but not be limited to the driver/operator development. senior firefighter development, and new officer development. Supports staff in all aspects of performing their jobs, including conducting periodic performance appraisals for direct reports, providing constructive feedback, expanding staff skills, and setting work and professional development goals in order to maximize the performance and quality of staff and services. Produce monthly statistical reports on company activities, including but not limited to training, inspections, emergency calls, etc. Assist in the development of department goals and objectives with the Fire Chief, as a member of the command staff. Reviews incident documentation and performs QA/QI. Review and coordinate the transmittal of workers' compensation claims to Human Resources. Oversee all vehicle maintenance and repairs, to ensure maximum up time for all station needs. Respond to complaints from public officials, the public, local organizations, the media and other requests for service. Coordinate daily distribution of records and materials to dispatch, payroll, accounting staff. Act as department Liaison to the dispatch center. Mediate disputes and/or differences between employees and/or members of the public. Meet regularly with union leadership to ensure smooth operation and coordination of labor/management initiatives. Participate in oral boards for department promotions. Ensure emergency management readiness within the City. Attend meetings as department representative on a variety of matters. Serve as the shift commander and/or incident commander when necessary. Attends conferences and seminars to maintain contacts with colleagues and to remain current in the latest fire technologies and theories. In accordance with Department protocol, will serve as acting Fire Chief as directed. Works with other departments within the City and performs other necessary tasks or functions as is necessary to accomplish City and Department goals and objectives. Associate degree in fire science or related field, plus a minimum of ten years of career firefighting experience including five years in a supervisory or command position in a fire department with administrative responsibility and possesses ability to meet requirements and obtain certifications necessary for subordinate positions within Fire Department, required, equivalency considered. EMT basic certification required. Ability to maintain a valid driver's license required. Fire Officer II certification is preferred. Possesses ability to perform highly responsible duties of a complex nature requiring considerable initiative and judgment particularly in emergency situations which do not fall clearly within established practices or precedents. Minimum of ten years of career firefighting experience including five years in a supervisory or command position in a fire department with administrative responsibility and possesses ability to meet requirements and obtain certifications necessary for subordinate positions within Fire Department. Comprehensive knowledge of firefighting and fire prevention principles, practices and equipment and possesses familiarity with principles of construction. Comprehensive knowledge of departmental policies and regulations and of the laws and ordinances affecting fire department operations. Possesses ability to prepare and manage operating and capital budgets. Possesses ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, the public, and city officials; to organize, assign and direct the work of subordinates. Possesses ability to manage and maintain confidential information to include patient medical information, criminal matters and fire and arson investigations which are sensitive in nature and confidential. Knowledge of supervisory techniques and City of South Burlington Personnel Rules and Regulations and the union contract. Possesses ability to communicate clearly and concisely in writing and orally. Possesses competency in using word processing, computer-based incident reporting systems and other software. Ability to manage with a high degree of consensus building and to ensure successful team decision-making. Strong motivation, leadership, and interpersonal skills. Ability to handle competing priorities. Proven ability to be organized, detail oriented and accurate. Comprehensive knowledge of emergency medical services and ambulance transportation systems. Comprehensive knowledge of State and Federal Emergency Management Agency systems, laws, and regulations. Demonstrated ability to manage and direct large scale operations of personnel and equipment under emergency conditions. Ability to obtain and maintain knowledge of current community risk reduction practices and programs. Knowledge of mediation principles and practices. Ability to work in a municipal environment and balance organizational/safety/and public needs to ensure smooth implementation of events. Ability to work in a diverse environment treating all with respect and dignity. Ability to communicate clearly. Ability to mentor, coach, and guide employees. Ability to communicate policies to staff to ensure consistent implementation. Knowledge of South Burlington Fire Department operations in conjunction with state emergency management plan. Ability to work nights, weekends, holidays. Ability to actively support city diversity, equity, and cultural competency efforts within stated job responsibilities and work effectively across diverse cultures and constituencies. Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion as evidenced by ongoing training and professional development. Ability to understand and comply with city standards, safety rules and personnel policies.