Defensible Space Inspector/Wildfire Mitigation Specialist
Professional Temp (Fixed-Term/Non-Exempt)
City of San Rafael Fire Department
Wildfire Mitigation Team
$31.80 - $40.59 per hour
(salary dependent upon experience/qualifications)
Limited Benefits Available
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Apply by Sunday, March 19, 2023, for first consideration
Interviews are tentatively scheduled for the week of March 20th – Multiple positions available
Fixed-term appointments may be made for up to three-year periods with the potential to extend. Continued appointment in this position is contingent upon funding and job performance. This is an “at will” position and has limited benefits available. This is a great opportunity to gain hands on experience working for one of the finest fire departments in the State.
This position is fully funded through Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority (MPWA) and will directly support the mission of wildfire preparedness and mitigation and community safety.
THE CITY is focused on enhancing our community members’ quality of life through well-designed services and a positive workplace culture. San Rafael is the economic and cultural heart of Marin County, and its high quality of life is centered on its commercial districts, engaged neighborhoods, active lifestyle, and natural environment. San Rafael (population 61,000) is a full-service city with a city council/city manager form of government with 12 departments, more than 400 employees, and an annual budget of $120 million. The City’s vision is to be a vibrant economic and cultural center reflective of its diversity. The City Council is engaged and seeks to strengthen the urban and commercial areas as well as sustain the beautiful natural environment.
San Rafael’s Organizational culture framework is an initiative called “Together San Rafael.” City employees are our greatest asset, and we seek talented individuals with diverse backgrounds who are creative, curious, and excited about a challenge. We are a results-driven team focused on the needs of community members. The Together San Rafael initiative is focused on modernizing City services and increasing the engagement of employees. This initiative recognizes the interconnectedness of the customer and employee experience.
THE POSITION:
The City of San Rafael Fire Department is seeking customer service and public safety focused individuals to join the wildfire mitigation team. Depending on experience, qualified applicants may be hired as a Defensible Space Inspector (DSI) or Wildfire Mitigation Specialist (WMS). Multiple positions are available. As part of the Wildfire Mitigation team, the position(s) will report directly to the Defensible Space Program Manager with oversight from the Deputy Director of Emergency Management.
The Inspector/Specialist will perform a variety of technical, complex, and customer service-oriented duties in support of the City’s and Marin Wildfire Fire Prevention Authorities (MWPA)’s goal. These positions will have a focus on residential education and compliance with wildfire prevention standards and best practices. This will include direct one-on-one engagement with residents via the inspection program and the use of tablets and other technology to document findings and interactions. Additional responsibilities will include project specific assignments, support of volunteer efforts, public presentations, and outreach efforts.
The ideal candidate will have a passion for public service, strong technical and organizational skills, be adaptable, and work well both independently and as part of a team. Experience and understanding of wildfire prevention and mitigation strategies and best practices is strongly desired.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (may include but are not limited to the following).
- Perform defensible space inspections across the City and Marinwood CSD in accordance with San Rafael Municipal Code 4.12.
- Implement the City and MWPA Wildfire prevention and mitigation goals
- Provide guidance to residents on suggested and required home hardening strategies.
- Investigate public and referred public agency complaints.
- Manage or coordinate assigned related projects and outreach
- Provide residents with appropriate support resources and programs
- Increase awareness, knowledge and actions implemented by individuals and communities to reduce human loss and property damage from wildfires
- Review, evaluate, process, and maintain a variety of files related to fire prevention activities.
- Other duties as assigned.
KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES
- Understanding of principles, practices and techniques of fire prevention and mitigation, including City and State Fire prevention codes, and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards.
- Apply technical knowledge and independently conduct wildfire/defensible space inspections following proper inspection techniques.
- Possess strong written and oral communication skills. Effectively communicate with others. Write clear reports free of spelling and grammatical errors.
- Utilize personal computers, tablets, and related software including the Microsoft Office Suite, mapping, and database tools
- Work effectively in small teams or independently for extended periods of time.
- Interpret and explain fire prevention services, policies and procedures. Read and interpret complex technical documents and maps.
- Ability to manage and prioritize multiple concurrent projects and met deadlines
- Practice sound judgment.
- Follow both verbal and written instructions.
- Be self-motivated, work independently to complete assigned duties and responsibilities in a timely manner.
- Build and maintain positive working relationships with residents, external stake holder groups, and internal City teams.
Minimum Qualifications Desired:
- At least 18 years old by the application filing deadline
- Completion of twelfth (12th) grade and any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities in qualifying.
- Work experience requiring public contact and interpretation of general rules and regulations.
- MUST possess and maintain a Valid California Driver’s License with a satisfactory driving record.
Possession of one or more of the following is desirable:
- A background in customer service or public service
- Certified Wildfire Mitigation Specialist credential
- Ability to speak, read, and write Spanish
Disaster Service Workers:
All City of San Rafael employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment at the City requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand and walk and spend substantial time outdoors. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities include close vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS:
City of San Rafael application is required. Resumes do not substitute for the City application. Candidates should detail related education and experience on the application. The examination process may include the following application appraisal and oral board interview examination. The passing point for the oral board examination final score will be 70%. Note: Prior to appointment, candidate may be required to pass a pre-employment physical and background check/fingerprinting. To file an application, go to: www.calopps.org. Select “Member Agencies”. Select “San Rafael”. Follow this link to apply via CalOpps: https://www.calopps.org/san-rafael/job-20358675
For more information about the City of San Rafael, please visit www.cityofsanrafael.org
Reasonable Accommodation: The City of San Rafael will make reasonable accommodations in the exam process to accommodate disabled applicants. If you have a disability for which you require an accommodation, please contact us at (415) 485-3474 before the test date. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. Such accommodations must be requested by the applicant.