Fire Captain

This classification specification has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees to perform the job. The Physical Requirements and Working Conditions section of this classification may vary from position to position. The employer reserves the right to assign or otherwise modify the duties assigned to this classification.

Job Purpose:

The Fire Captain serves as a first-line supervisor responsible for leading a team of firefighters in emergency response, firefighting, and emergency medical rescue operations. An employee in this class serves as the on-site supervisor for a firefighting team or unit of 2 to 4 personnel, performing general firefighting and emergency medical duties. The primary focus of the role is to assume command during fire or emergency situations, with the expectation of transferring command to a senior officer upon their arrival. Responsibilities include directing fire suppression tactics, supervising emergency medical response, and managing the placement and use of equipment such as hoses, ladders, and various hand and cutting tools. The employee also participates in training exercises, assists with equipment and facility maintenance, and performs daily housekeeping tasks within the fire station. In addition to operational duties, the role includes secondary administrative assignments such as overseeing technical rescue equipment and training, conducting pre-fire planning and incident surveys, maintaining hose and vehicle records, and other related tasks. Work is typically carried out under emergency conditions and involves personal risk. While procedures are well established, the position requires independent judgment and initiative during emergency responses. Work is performed under the supervision of the Fire Chief and evaluated through observation, reporting, and review of overall performance.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Serves as the on-scene supervisor during fire, rescue, and medical emergencies; directs firefighting crews in suppression activities, search and rescue operations, patient care, and hazard mitigation until relieved by a senior officer.
• Manages emergency scenes by assessing conditions, determining tactics, directing personnel and equipment, overseeing search and rescue efforts, and ensuring the protection of life, property, and the environment, including at hazardous material incidents.
• Operates fire apparatus when necessary, including connecting pumps to water sources, calculating friction loss, maintaining appropriate pressures, and monitoring radio transmissions.
• Participates in post-incident operations including salvage, equipment recovery and cleaning, and minimizing water and smoke damage to property.
• Supervises staff by prioritizing and assigning work, conducting performance evaluations, scheduling and monitoring training, ensuring policy compliance, maintaining a safe working environment, and making recommendations for hiring, disciplinary action, and termination.
• Develops shift activity schedules, investigates reports of personnel misconduct, and ensures consistent operational readiness of personnel and equipment.
• Performs administrative functions including preparing and reviewing reports, maintaining documentation on training, emergency responses, inspections, and incidents such as fires, vehicle accidents, and medical calls; coordinates bid requests, purchase documentation, and special assignments.
• Oversees and conducts training to ensure proficiency in firefighting strategies, emergency medical procedures, equipment operation, and departmental protocols; maintains and develops knowledge through manuals, drills, and lectures.
• Conducts and participates in fire prevention activities including public education programs, school and civic presentations, fire station tours, and assisting in the development of emergency escape plans.
• Participates in pre-fire planning efforts by inspecting properties, preparing scale drawings, reviewing fire suppression strategies, and maintaining awareness of hydrant locations and sprinkler systems.
• Oversees daily maintenance of equipment and station, including inspections and servicing of SCBAs, hoses, vehicles, tools, and station facilities.
• Trains subordinates in operational procedures including fire hydrant testing, equipment use, and emergency scene coordination.
• Makes daily work assignments and ensures station cleanliness and upkeep, including general maintenance such as sweeping, painting, and cleaning.
• Performs other related duties as assigned to support the mission and operational effectiveness of the department.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Considerable knowledge of modern firefighting techniques, standard operating procedures, fireground hazards, and related safety precautions.
• Strong understanding of emergency medical response, including CPR, basic life support, and trauma care techniques.
• Familiarity with applicable fire codes, department policies, general orders, bulletins, and training materials.
• Thorough knowledge of local geography, including street layouts, building types, and hydrant locations within the service area.
• Working knowledge of public communication and customer service techniques for effectively interacting with the community.
• Proficiency in the use of firefighting tools and equipment, including but not limited to axes, pry bars, hoses, nozzles, SCBAs, fans, defibrillators, hydraulic rescue tools, and hand tools.
• Ability to deliver fire prevention and safety education programs to diverse audiences of all ages.
• Ability to interpret and follow written and oral instructions, operational guidelines, and emergency protocols.
• Physical ability to perform demanding tasks under adverse and hazardous conditions, including climbing ladders, working at heights, carrying or dragging victims and equipment, and operating in heavy gear for extended periods.
• Capability to ventilate structures, manipulate hose connections and valves, operate hose clamps, and control charged hose lines during fire suppression activities.
• Demonstrated ability to remain calm under pressure, make sound decisions, and take decisive action in high-stress or life-threatening situations.
• Effective supervisory and leadership skills, including the ability to build respect, motivate staff, and elicit high performance from team members.
• Ability to mentor and train less experienced personnel in firefighting, rescue techniques, hazardous materials response, and equipment operation.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to maintain effective, cooperative working relationships within the fire company and with the general public.
• Ability to live and work harmoniously with diverse groups in a close team environment for extended periods, including 24-hour shifts.

QUALIFICATIONS, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE:

• Graduation from high school or GED equivalency.
• At least four (4) years field experience in fire suppression including experience operating varied fire apparatus.
• Associate’s degree in Fire Service or related discipline is desirable or a combination of training and experience that would be commensurate to a degree.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Work in this position is the first line supervision of firefighting personnel at fire scenes. The employee is subject to the same physical requirements of other fire employees which is heavy work requiring exertion of in excess of 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or in excess of 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or in excess of 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Employee must have the physical stamina to endure the rigors of intensive firefighting and salvage work. Employee must have the visual acuity to operate equipment and to distinguish colors and see peripherally in both eyes.

WORKING CONDITIONS: The employee will be subject to both inside and outside environmental conditions including exposure to extreme heat (above 100 deg F) and extreme cold (below 32 deg F). Employee is subject to noise, vibration, and other firefighting hazards and a variety of physical conditions such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, electrical current, working in high places, exposure to high heat, and exposure to chemicals. Employee is subject to atmospheric conditions that may affect the respiratory system of the skin including oils and greases and are required to wear respirators or other self-contained breathing devices in certain instances. Employees frequently work in close quarters which could cause claustrophobia. Employee may be exposed to blood or blood-borne pathogens when providing emergency medical services.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• NC Commercial Driver’s license (Class B).
• NC Emergency Medical Technician.
• NC Firefighter I and II.
• NC Hazardous Material Operations or Technician Level Certification.
• National Incident Management System.
• NC Fire Officer I.
• Fire Instructor Level I.
• Emergency Vehicle Driver and pump operations; additional certifications may be required

DRUG TESTING: This position requires the employee to be subject to random drug testing as per the Town of Landis Policy.