Lab Assistant (Fire Science)

Summary

The Fire Science Lab Assistant supports instructional staff by helping students acquire and master practical, hands-on firefighting and hazardous materials skills. This role is also responsible for routine preventive maintenance, inventory tracking, and the setup of all academy equipment, apparatus, and training props.

Position Description

- Provide technical guidance to students in the performance of specific educational tasks during Fire Academy courses. - Observe and document student performance of assigned firefighting and hazardous materials skills and training evolutions. - Ensure strict safety practices are always followed by students. - Adhere to and enforce all required safety procedures during live fire evolutions. - Monitor student use of college-owned turnout gear, SCBA, and equipment; promptly report malfunctioning, damaged, or worn equipment needing repair or replacement. - Perform monthly maintenance checks on all training equipment and apparatus. - Maintain accurate inventories of all academy equipment and tools. - Enforce all rules, regulations, and institutional guidelines set forth by the program, KCKCC, and governing external agencies. - Set up, tear down, and maintain practical skills stations for training exercises. - Perform other related duties as assigned by the supervisor or lead instructor.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

- Knowledge and ability to demonstrate and coach proper techniques in firefighting and hazardous materials response. - Ability to regularly lift, carry, and maneuver equipment or objects weighing up to 100 lbs. under fireground training conditions. - Ability to effectively communicate, support, and instruct individuals from multicultural backgrounds and varying skill levels. - Ability to maintain a supportive, patient, and fair learning environment while objectively evaluating student competencies and providing constructive feedback.

Minimum Qualifications

- High school diploma or GED equivalent. - Certifications: Currently have or the documented ability to obtain them within six months of hire - Firefighter I (IFSAC) - Firefighter II certifications (IFSAC) - Hazardous Materials Awareness - Hazardous Materials Operations - Three (3) to five (5) years of volunteer or career fire service experience (a combination of academy training time and field experience is acceptable).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

- Associate of Fire Science Degree. - Six (6) or more years of volunteer or career fire service experience ( a combination of academy training time and field experience).

Working Conditions

In performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, talk, hear, walk, and sit. Occasionally, the employee may need to push or lift items. Reasonable accommodation can be provided to assist individuals with disabilities in performing the essential functions of the role.

Work Schedule

10 hours per week, or 20 hours every other week, during workdays and weekends. Must be able to work a variable schedule/hour to meet operational needs per job description. Work a minimum of 45 hours per semester to continue employment.