Volunteer Reserve Chaplain

Riverside County Fire Department

Reserve Chaplain

This is an Unpaid Position

Description Created: June 2025

PURPOSE AND DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:

Reserve Chaplains assist the Riverside County Fire Department a variety of

emergency and non emergency situations including but not limited to critical stress debriefings,

memorial services for department staff and family members, and department and family home,

hospital or other facility visitations offering support. Teamwork, personal investment, and self-sacrifice

are the basis of the social framework of a Reserve Chaplain. Reserve Chaplains also provide a variety of community services. This position requires each

individual member to perform a variety of duties and may include the responding to calls within

the community as well as assisting other neighboring communities during mutual aid responses.

In addition, Reserve Chaplains may be required to perform other duties as assigned.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:

The examples of functions listed in this class specification are representative but not necessarily

exhaustive or descriptive of any one position in the class. Management is not precluded from

assigning other related functions not listed herein if such functions are a logical assignment for

the position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable an individual with a qualified

disability to perform the essential functions of a job, on a case-by-case basis.

Essential Functions:

Reserve Chaplain:

Duties may include, but are not limited to:

May assist department staff in emergency situations including liaison, notification, transportation

of family members or critical stress incident management to department staff as deemed

appropriate by the Fire Chief or his/her designee.

May conduct or assist in funeral or memorial services for department staff and family. Work with

department staff and family to provide necessary support and comfort.

Visitation of department members, their families or support groups.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Each Reserve Chaplains brings a unique combination of experience, knowledge, skills

and abilities to the team. Knowledge, skills and abilities that are particularly applicable to this type

of assignment include:

Must have the ability to work effectively under the stress of emergency situations and calmly and

effectively handle others in emergency situations.

Must have the ability to read, learn, and remember changes in policy or procedures.

Must have the ability to apply information in a logical manner; maintain composure, confront

stressful situations, and withstand the effects of repeated exposure to traumatic situations.

Must have the ability to take and follow orders from supervisors.

Must have the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with community

personnel, other fire agencies, outside agencies, and the general public.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:

Reserve Chaplains must possess the physical, mental, and emotional ability to

successfully perform the essential and often stressful duties of such an assignment. The

mental/physical characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met:

Frequently stand, walk or sit for extended timeframes.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Must be a high school graduate or have passed the GED Requirements at time of appointment.

Be able to read and write English at a level required for successful job performance.

Be at least 18 years of age.

Able to follow oral and written direction, exercise good judgment, work safely independently and

with others, respond quickly to oral commands or signals during emergency situations.

May be required to complete any standard training requirements as approved by the lead

chaplain department before being allowed to participate in department activities.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Reserve Chaplains may be called upon to respond and work in all types of weather and

less than ideal conditions. They may be assigned to remote areas. They may be asked to endure

extended shifts, sometimes on weekends and holidays... Reserve Chaplains may be

exposed to emotional hazards associated with firefighting, emergency medical response and

rescue.

Desirable Traits:

Communicate effectively, knowledgeable worker, customer focused, values and respects others,

drives to excel, teamwork and collaboration, continuous learning, demonstrates ethical behavior

and supportive to change.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Riverside County Reserve Chaplains must have a reputation for honesty and

trustworthiness. Successful completion of a background investigation conducted by the County of

Riverside Human Resources is required. Misdemeanor and/or felony convictions may be

disqualifying depending on type, number, severity, and recency. In addition, personal references

and employment information will be verified.

Reserve Chaplains serve at the pleasure of the Riverside County Fire Chief and

may be separated at any time. Reserve Chaplains have no employment rights

with the County of Riverside and are not considered employees.

HOW TO APPLY

Applications may be obtained at www.rvcfire.org as positions are open and available. All required

documentation must be submitted with the application including a resume.