Fire & Life SAfety Educator

Chesterfield County Fire & EMS is seeking a skilled and enthusiastic Fire & Life Safety Educator to join our highly collaborative team dedicated to building a safer community. This role is ideal for educators who enjoy developing engaging learning experiences, working with diverse audiences, and making a direct impact on community safety. The position educates residents of all ages on fire and life safety topics to reduce injuries, prevent loss of life, and protect property.

About the Role

Fire & Life Safety Educators design, develop, and deliver instructional programs that teach essential safety skills to all ages. The role combines curriculum development, public speaking, community engagement, and partnership-building with schools, businesses, civic groups, and local agencies. Educators also support Youth Firesetting Prevention & Intervention, coordinate major public education tools such as the Fire & Life Safety Trailer, and assist with countywide safety events.

Responsibilities

• Develop, schedule, teach, and evaluate fire and life safety programs for students, families, seniors, community groups, and businesses.
• Create lesson plans, instructional materials, presentations, and assessments.
• Coordinate and schedule training staff, deliver programs, and maintain supplies.
• Provide Youth Firesetting Prevention & Intervention through interviews, evaluations, and family support.
• Deliver educational programs at libraries, schools, adult centers, industrial sites, hospitals, and community events.
• Develop or obtain resource materials such as brochures, presentations, spreadsheets, and other digital content.
• Build and maintain partnerships with schools, law enforcement, social services, juvenile detention, senior services, civic organizations, industrial safety teams, healthcare partners, and youth organizations.
• Participate in countywide initiatives to promote safety.
• Stay current on emerging fire and life safety issues through ongoing training and professional development.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in fire science, education, public relations or communications, or related field; at least one year of experience in teaching or training (preferred experience in education, fire services, health/medical, or related). Experience with Youth Firesetter Intervention Programs is desirable. An equivalent combination of training and experience may substitute.
• Knowledge of basic fire and life safety principles and strong communication skills (oral and written).
• Ability to design and deliver training programs and build positive working relationships.
• Effective time management and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially PowerPoint.
• Ability to move or lift up to 30 pounds and stand for extended periods of time.
• Current valid driver’s license and good driving record. Based on the Virginia DMV point system, the applicant’s driving record must not reflect a total of six or more demerit points within the twenty-four months preceding the anticipated hire date, or one major violation of six demerit points within the preceding thirty-six months, or a DMV driving record point balance less than negative one. Out-of-state driving records must be obtained by the applicant and submitted at the time of interview, reflecting at least three years of history and dated within thirty days of the interview date.

Qualifications

Pre-employment drug testing, FBI criminal background check, CPS check, and education/degree verification are required. This position is part of an approved Career Development Plan (CDP) and offers career progression opportunities and salary incentives, as funding permits, based on performance, qualifications, and experience. The role is considered safety-sensitive and is subject to random drug and alcohol testing.

Schedule

Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with occasional evenings and weekends based on community needs.