Firewise Mitigation Specialist

Temporary Position, Wage $17.50, No Benefits

Firewise

JOB SUMMARY

This position performs specialized duties in support of fire mitigation efforts, including the marking, thinning, and removal of trees.

MAJOR DUTIES

• Identifies prescriptive fire mitigation treatment options for property owners.

• Operates a chainsaw to feel trees and remove limbs.

• Performs slash management duties, including lopping and scattering, chipping, and hauling of brush.

• Ensures compliance with safety guidelines.

• Maintains and repairs chainsaws and other equipment.

• Performs related duties.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

• Knowledge of fire mitigation principles and practices.

• Knowledge of tree felling principles, practices, and safety standards.

• Knowledge of chainsaw operation and maintenance.

• Skill in the operation of saws and other equipment.

• Skill in the safe pruning and felling of trees.

• Skill in problem solving.

• Skill in prioritizing and planning.

• Skill in interpersonal relations.

• Skill in oral and written communication.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The Fire Mitigation Crew Chief assigns work in terms of general instructions. The supervisor spot-checks completed work for compliance with procedures, accuracy, and the nature and propriety of the final results.

GUIDELINES

Guidelines include Firewise program guidelines and department and county policies and procedures. These guidelines are generally clear and specific but may require some interpretation in application.

COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK

• The work consists of related fire mitigation duties. The unique safety hazards associated with each project contribute to the complexity of the position.

• The purpose of this position is to participate in fire mitigation efforts. Success in this position contributes to mitigation of fire hazards in the community.

CONTACTS

• Contacts are typically with coworkers, other county employees, representatives of local fire departments, property owners, and members of the general public.
• Contacts are typically to exchange information, resolve problems, and provide services.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT

• The work is typically performed while standing, walking, bending, crouching, or stooping. The employee frequently lifts heavy objects, uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity, and distinguishes between shades of color.

• The work is typically performed outdoors, occasionally in cold or inclement weather. The employee is exposed to noise, dust, direct, grease, and machinery with moving parts. Work requires the use of protective devices such as masks, goggles, gloves, etc.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY

None.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATION

• A veteran as defined under SDCL 33A-2-1.
• A valid DD214 (or NGB22) with honorable discharge.
• Ability to read, write and perform mathematical calculations at a level commonly associated with the completion of high school or equivalent