LEAD FIREFIGHTER (Title 5)

Lead Firefighter The primary purpose of this position is to serve as a Lead Firefighter responsible for a major piece of firefighting equipment and its regularly assigned crew of three or more firefighters engaged in airfield and structural firefighting and rescue operations and the reduction and/or elimination of potential fire hazards. Leads a crew of three or more firefighters, including at least one firefighter assigned to man a major piece of motorized firefighting equipment such as a pumper, aerial ladder truck, or Airport Rescue Fire Fighting (ARFF) vehicle in firefighting and rescue operations. Studies field maps to become familiar with ground areas, specific locations, etc. Ensures that workload is balanced at the fire/rescue scene or in the station. Keeps in touch with the status and progress of work, makes day-to-day adjustments, and obtains assistance from supervisor on problems that arise. Approves leave for a few hours or for emergencies. Resolves simple informal complaints, referring the more serious problems to the supervisor. Informs supervisor on performance, progress, and training needs of crew members, and on disciplinary problems. Makes suggestions to supervisor as requested concerning promotions, reassignment, recognition of exemplary performance, and personnel needs. Instructs employees on specific tasks and firefighting techniques and provides written instructions and/or reference materials and supplies. Directs firefighting crew in the operation of firefighting vehicles and equipment. Directs driver-operator or drives to the scene of the fire following a predetermined route or selecting an alternate when necessary, and positions vehicle considering factors, such as wind direction, sources of water, and hazards from falling structures. Ensures vehicle is maneuvered to keep the fire in optimum range while ensuring that backflash or flashover will not occur. When arriving first at the scene, takes charge of all firefighting activities until relieved by a more senior firefighter. Directs assigned crew in the performance of crash/rescue and firefighting duties at airfields handling complex aircraft; the performance of structural firefighting duties for a variety of facilities which may include research and/or large industrial complexes; and the performance of hazardous material containment and control and/or Basic Life Support duties. Performs firefighting duties at airfields handling aircraft carrying large volumes of fuel, conventional and sometimes nuclear weapons, or highly flammable or explosive cargo; or handling a large number of air moves, or a moderate number involving pilot training, or other air moves with high crash or fire potential. Hazardous airfield conditions are such that the expectancy for fire is high and potential for becoming destructive is great. Applies constant awareness of the frequent changes in cockpit design, ordnance placement, and cabin layouts to direct rescue and firefighting operations. Support operations involve extensive flight line repair work, hot pit refueling, or the storage or movement of large quantities of gasoline and other fuels. Leads assigned crew and performs emergency rescue of personnel and a variety of first aid measures to alleviate further injury and prepare the victim(s) for transport to a medical facility. Uses direct pressure and/or tourniquets to stop bleeding, checks windpipe for obstructions, performs CPR, and/or provides other appropriate assistance. Frequently serves as the prime rescuer in rescue operations. Participates in regular training and exercises as required. Assigns crew members to perform maintenance of firefighting equipment and fire station facilities. Performs functional tests and inspections. Performs preventive maintenance on equipment and housekeeping duties associated with assigned facilities. Department of the Air Force