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Battalion Chief
Battalion Chief
JOB DESCRIPTION
Title: Battalion Chief Number: 2430-A5
Division: Suppression Effective Date: January 9, 2015
FLSA Class: Non-Exempt Approved By: Chief Torpin
Under the direction and guidance of the Fire Chief, the Battalion Chief is responsible for planning,
organizing, directing, coordinating, and supervising activities of an assigned shift which includes
the management of personnel, fire prevention and training activities, and oversight of major
programs. Within the framework of standard practice and District policy, the Battalion Chief
operates with considerable latitude for independent decision making.
The Battalion Chief is responsible for the mitigation of emergencies through responsive and
effective management of fire suppression, emergency medical, rescue, hazardous materials, and
other man-made and/or natural disasters that pose a threat to public safety. Mitigation of
emergencies may involve performing hazardous tasks requiring strenuous physical exertion for
extended periods of time in cramped surroundings, hot, smoky environments with limited visibility
and at considerable heights.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Essential functions will vary according to the work environment and may include, but are not
limited to, the following:
The work area will encompass a wide variety of settings including: administrative duties in an
office settings; regular exposure to outside weather conditions and could include emergency
locations above or underground and in and/or around water, hazardous traffic areas and under
unfavorable or unsanitary conditions which may include burning debris, falling structures,
biohazards, air and blood-borne pathogens; confined spaces; commercial and residential structures,
etc. Employees are regularly exposed to wet and humid conditions, fumes, airborne particles, toxic
or caustic chemicals, extreme heat and risk of electrical shock. Employees may find themselves in
hostile or psychologically demanding environments, involving emotional or psychological stress.
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but may reach extremes where hearing
protection is required. Work is usually performed during 24-hour shifts and work may be assigned
to a standard 40-hour work week.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Requires ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening examination and any subsequent
testing.
Requires ability to pass a comprehensive background check.
Employee must be insurable under the District’s existing vehicle and umbrella liability
insurance carrier.
Employee must meet the medical and physical requirements as specified in NFPA 1582, the
Washington State Administrative Code, WAC 296 305 Safety Standards for Firefighters and
WAC 296-842 Respirators.