County of Alameda

Under the direction of the of the Division Chief of Wildland Operations, Crew Superintendent, Fire Captain, or equivalent position, the Fire Fuels Crew Technician classification may perform a variety of activities including hazard mitigation at vegetation fires, public education outreach, fire prevention assistance, and identifying and eliminating potentially hazardous conditions in the wildland and urban interface settings and performs, other duties as assigned.  

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES

The Fire Fuels Crew Technician classification is a classification located in the Alameda County Fire Department (ACFD). This classification will be established , and the  employees will be trained in fire behavior, fire control, and fire suppression techniques. This classification differs from the classification of Firefighter as the former responds to vegetation fires only, does not wear a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), and does not enter into immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) atmospheres, and primarily performs vegetation management activities in the prevention setting.   

NOTE: The following are typical duties performed by employees in this classification. Employees may not necessarily perform all duties listed however, they may perform other related duties at an equivalent level. 

1. Attend and complete classroom training and manipulative exercises, and drills.
2. Inspect, operate, service, and repair equipment and tools related to fire prevention and mitigation.
3. Assist with vegetation management activities to clear or reduce hazardous fuels, construct fire lines, and identify potentially hazardous conditions.
4. Assist with vegetation fires by constructing containment lines, extinguishing residual hotspots, and reinforcing containment lines as needed. 

Ability to:

• Work in the wildfire environment that includes steep, rocky terrain covered in thick vegetation.
• Work for extended periods of time in required personal protective equipment. (PPE) that includes boots, a hard hat, gloves, and fire-resistant clothing.
• Work in severe temperature extremes due to weather or fire conditions.
• Perform physical tasks that require coordination, strength, dexterity, and stamina.
• Learn and use specialized tools and equipment.
• Follow oral and written instructions.
• Complete classroom courses, training, and tests.
• Complete manipulative training, drills, and tests.
• Communicate clearly both orally and in writing.
• Use radio communications equipment.
• Perform basic tasks on computers, tablets, and other forms of information technology.
• Work effectively and cooperatively with the public.
• Work as a member of an organized team. 
• Use good judgment in emergencies or critical situations.
• Remain calm and work effectively in stressful situations.
• Adapt to changes in work assignments and duties.