Bluffton Fire Department: Training Officer I

Contact Information

Contact: David Hindman
Phone: 843-757-2800
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Position Summary  

Under the direction of the Battalion Chief of Training and Safety, the Training Lieutenant delivers fire and rescue training for all department personnel. This position instructs South Carolina Fire Academy courses, Bluffton Township Fire District courses, and provides continuing education at the company and department levels. The Training Lieutenant may assist the Medical Division with Emergency Medical Technician courses and associated continuing education. The Training Lieutenant is responsible for the organization, operation, and upkeep of the department's training grounds and assists in evaluating new fire suppression equipment and training practices to ensure compliance with applicable regulatory standards. Responds to emergency incidents, including structure fires, and performs command or general staff functions within the Incident Command System (ICS) to support safe, coordinated and effective incident management. Provides strategic oversight, coordination of resources, and operational support to ensure effective emergency response.  Essential Functions The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned. Conduct training for fire district personnel in fire suppression, rescue, and hazardous materials. Assist with medical training and recertification programs. Ensure consistent delivery and quality of fire and EMS training programs. Evaluate individual and team performance to improve operational readiness and competency. Conducts recruit training and annual in-service training for existing personnel. Ensure instructors maintain required certifications and credentials. Maintain and oversee training records and certification tracking. Assist with the preparation of the annual training budget and procurement of equipment and supplies. Collect and analyze training data; prepare reports and recommendations. Attend meetings, conferences, and training to maintain required certifications and professional development. Evaluate new fire suppression equipment, training tools, and instructional practices to ensure compliance with regulatory and safety standards. Assist in identifying instructional needs through periodic training needs assessments. Respond to emergency incidents as needed, serve assigned functions, or evaluate operations for training improvement.

Knowledge Fireground operations and emergency services practices. Emergency medical care, rescue techniques, and risk management principles. South Carolina OSHA regulations. Applicable federal, state, and local laws, including NFPA standards and fire prevention codes. Hazardous materials identification and reference resources. National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS) principles. Department promotional processes and professional development standards. Public safety records management systems and related software platforms. Skills Planning and administering fire training programs and assisting EMS training programs. Analyzing complex issues and developing effective solutions. Researching, evaluating data, and preparing recommendations. Operating office software and standard office equipment. Operating fire service tools and equipment. Utilizing specialized software systems, including Microsoft Office Suite, department records management systems, GIS platforms, and related public safety software. Plan, implement, and evaluate training programs and projects. Communicate effectively with staff, leadership, public officials, and the community. Write curriculum, develop instructors, and deliver training to diverse audiences. Manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines with minimal supervision. Maintain professionalism under stress and in public interactions. Read and interpret policies, technical manuals, safety data sheets, maps, and related materials. Evaluate equipment and instructional methods for regulatory compliance and operational effectiveness.

Required Education and Experience High School Diploma or GED. Associate degree in Fire Science or related field preferred. Minimum of six (6) years of experience as a firefighter. Minimum four (4) years as a National Registry EMT. Required Certifications Requirements are subject to change based on industry standards. SCFA or IFSAC Fire Officer I SCFA or IFSAC Fire Instructor I National Registry EMT Valid South Carolina Class E Driver’s License or equivalent American Heart Association BLS Instructor (within 6 months) NIMS ICS 100, 200, 700, 800 ICS 300 and ICS 400 Physical and Work Environment Reasonable accommodation may be made in accordance with applicable law. Work involves a combination of sitting, standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and lifting up to 100 pounds. Exposure to fire scenes, hazardous materials, extreme temperatures, loud noise, and hazardous environments while wearing full PPE and SCBA. Operation of fire, rescue, hydraulic, pneumatic, gas, electric, and medical equipment for training and emergency response. Exposure to stressful and traumatic situations requires sustained concentration and composure. May work near heavy machinery, mechanical equipment, and high-voltage power sources.

Disclaimer This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Management reserves the right to assign or modify duties as needed. This document does not constitute an employment agreement and may be revised at any time.