POSITION SUMMARY:
The Fire Marshal serves as the captain-level officer responsible for all fire prevention, code enforcement, fire investigation, and community risk reduction activities within Chester County. This position leads the prevention division, ensures compliance with state and local fire codes, and protects the community through proactive education and enforcement.
Serves on committees and task groups as assigned. Serves on-call on a rotating basis to provide logistical support to Fire Suppression during emergency and non-emergency situations.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: This class specification lists the major duties and requirements of the job and is not all-inclusive. Incumbent(s) may be expected to perform job-related duties other than those contained in this document and may be required to have specific job-related knowledge and skills. Duties and Responsibilities - Direct and supervise all fire prevention division personnel including the CRR Lieutenant Fire Inspector, ensuring accountability, professional development, and efficient daily operations
- Administer and enforce state and local fire codes through a comprehensive inspection program covering commercial, industrial, educational, healthcare, and multi-family occupancies
- Review building plans, fire protection system designs, and development proposals for code compliance; conduct final inspections for new construction and renovations
- Conduct fire origin and cause investigations, prepare detailed investigation reports including scene examination, evidence collection, and witness interviews
- Coordinate with the Operations Captain and Training Captain to ensure suppression personnel receive pre-incident plans, hazard information, and code-related training
- Serve as the department liaison to the South Carolina State Fire Marshal's Office, county building officials, planning and zoning, and other regulatory agencies
- Represent Chester County Fire Service at code development meetings, regional committees, and community events related to fire prevention and life safety
- Prepare reports, maintain division records, and provide regular updates to the Deputy Director of Fire on inspection activity, investigation status, prevention programs, and division performance
- Analyze fire incident data and community risk assessments to identify trends and recommend targeted prevention strategies to the Fire Marshal
- Coordinate with external partners including schools, civic organizations, healthcare providers, social services, and community groups to expand risk reduction efforts
General / Operational Duties - Supervises assigned personnel during emergency and non-emergency activities.
- Performs incident command functions at emergency scenes as needed.
- Operates fire apparatus, vehicles, and specialized equipment in response to emergencies.
- Reviews incident and accident reports; investigates as necessary.
- Reviews reports completed by subordinates for accuracy and completeness.
- Serves on-call to provide logistical and operational support.
- Completes required reports and documentation in a timely and professional manner.
QUALIFICATIONS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
Education and Experience: High school diploma or GED required, associate degree preferred but not required, Minimum of 5 years of Fire Service experience with two (2) years in supervisory role.
- Special Qualifications: - At least 18 years of age
- SC Class E or CDL license
- NIMS 100/200/700/800/300/400 within 1 year
- Fire Officer II
- Fire Instructor I
- National Registry EMT
- Certified Fire Inspector through the South Carolina State Fire Marshal’s office or equivalent within 1 year.
- Certified Fire investigator within 1 year.
- All non-IFSAC certifications and certificates must have been obtained through or approved by the South Carolina Fire Academy
- Associates degree in fire science or related field preferred.
Required Knowledge and Skills: - Ability to perform duties under adverse environmental conditions (low visibility, hazardous atmospheres, confined spaces, heights, extreme heat, outdoor temperatures, disease exposure).
- Must be physically able to operate fire apparatus, inspection equipment, and standard office equipment.
- Must be able to exert up to 20 pounds occasionally and lift/carry weights up to 200 pounds.
- Must be able to pass annual Department physical examinations.
Work Environment: - Requires extended standing, walking, climbing, and manual tasks in both emergency and inspection environments.
|