Training Officer

This position works under the supervision of the Base Fire Chief and Base Civil Engineer or other Chain of Command personnel. It is responsible for managing, maintaining, and administering training programs for all fire department personnel, including military members, ensuring compliance with Federal/State rules and regulations, National Guard Bureau (NGB), Air Force instructions, and New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs (DMNA) policies. The Training Officer may also perform duties as an Airport Firefighter 1 and 2 (APFF1 and APFF2), act as Airport Firefighter 3 (APFF3), or serve as Fire Prevention Officer during absences. This is a management confidential position not covered under labor contract provisions within the DMNA.

Responsibilities

• Plans, develops, implements, reviews, conducts, and evaluates comprehensive fire prevention training, safety, and hazardous material handling programs at the installation.
• Assesses program objectives and recommends changes as necessary.
• Assists in budget preparation for training programs.
• Manages the DOD Firefighter Certification Program in accordance with accredited certification standards.
• Assigns, directs, and reviews the work of employees assisting in program activities.
• Oversees the development of lesson plans for recurring proficiency training following IFSTA guidelines.
• Ensures maintenance of reference materials such as NFPA handbooks, USAF directives, and training aids.
• Conducts required training on chemical and physical properties of fire, firefighting techniques, operation and maintenance of firefighting apparatus, rescue procedures, live fire drills, and other subjects to maintain competency.
• Prepares monthly, quarterly, semiannual, and annual training schedules for approval.
• Analyzes course content, evaluates training outcomes, and modifies programs as needed in coordination with the Fire Chief.
• Makes recommendations on resources needed for successful program implementation.
• Coordinates and trains instructors to present fire protection, safety, and hazardous material response lesson plans.
• Conducts recurring proficiency training, live crash fire training, and unannounced structural and crash rescue exercises.
• Evaluates personnel performance during training and emergencies, providing coaching and guidance.
• Administers CPR certification training.
• May supervise Airport Firefighters in firefighting activities as directed by the Chief.
• Assists in developing firehouse procedures and directives.
• Ensures Fire Department facilities are maintained in a safe, clean, and orderly fashion.
• Performs administrative duties, including computer data entry, and maintains contact via cellular telephone or residential phone.
• Operates equipment, motor vehicles, and trucks as assigned, ensuring proper use by subordinate staff.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Maintain all required certification levels; failure to do so may result in disciplinary action or termination.
• Maintain physical fitness and agility standards in accordance with applicable regulations.
• Report any changes in medical conditions to State Human Resources through the chain of command.
• Understand and comply with all applicable regulations, job performance, and training requirements.
• Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) weighing 50+ lbs and adhere to grooming standards per ANG requirements.
• Wear appropriate uniforms and present a clean, neat appearance.
• Safely drive and operate all assigned Fire Department vehicles.
• Ability to push, pull, lift, and carry heavy objects and equipment (135+ lbs, including PPE).
• Work outside in various temperatures and inclement weather for extended periods.
• Work comfortably at heights and in confined spaces.
• Interact effectively with diverse groups, including coworkers, management, and federal/state personnel.
• Complete and attend required training.
• Travel may be required.
• Prepare clear and concise written materials and possess strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and strong computer skills.
• Demonstrate reliability and trustworthiness.

Schedule

• General work schedule is 40 hours per week on a bi-weekly pay period.
• Scheduling is at the discretion of the Fire Chief and may include weekends, holidays, and irregular hours, including 24-hour shifts.
• May be required to report during major incidents and work overtime as needed.

Working Conditions

• Routinely faces risks, works irregular hours, and responds to calls regardless of weather conditions.
• May be subject to burns, dehydration, smoke inhalation, physical injury, and sensory damage from firefighting activities.
• Exposure to hazardous materials, infectious diseases, high noise levels, and various types of fires or explosions.
• May operate or ride on emergency vehicles under adverse conditions.
• Required to work outside in extreme temperatures and inclement weather for extended periods.

Qualifications

• Must possess current Department of Defense (DOD) certifications: Fire Officer III, Fire Instructor III, Fire Inspector II, and HAZMAT Incident Commander, or equivalent IFSAC or national fire service accreditation.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience as a permanent, full-time Airport Firefighter with documented completion of all current certifications and training requirements.
• Must be certified and maintain certification as a New York State Certified First Responder (CFR).
• Must maintain certification as a Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) instructor.