Fire Prevention Intern

CLASS DESCRIPTION

Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

THE POSITION

The City is looking to fill a Part-time, Temporary/Seasonal position in the Fire Department as a Fire Prevention Intern. The Fire Prevention Intern is an entry level role and supports the Fire Prevention Division by assisting the Fire Prevention Officer with vegetation management inspections and routine fire and life safety inspections of existing businesses. This position performs field-based inspections under the direction of Fire Prevention lead staff and helps reduce community fire risk through education, documentation, and compliance.

The ideal candidate is a reliable, detail-oriented individual that is interested in fire prevention and reducing risks within the community. This role is well suited for someone who is comfortable working independently in the field within established guidelines and supervision, but also enjoys working with a collaborative team of professionals. A successful candidate has professional communication, especially with the public, is willing to learn, and understands the importance of consistency, documentation, teamwork, and safety. An interest in public service, outdoor work, and community safety is essential.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (DUTIES)

Essential responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Conduct vegetation management and defensible space inspections in accordance with department standards and local regulations.
• Assist with routine fire and life safety inspections of existing, low-hazard commercial occupancies.
• Identify common fire hazards, life safety concerns, and vegetation-related risks.
• Document inspection findings using department forms, tablets, or software systems, including photographs and written notes.
• Provide basic fire safety education and explain inspection findings to property owners and business representatives in a professional, customer-service-oriented manner.
• Refer complex conditions, fire protection systems, code interpretation questions, or potential violations beyond assigned scope to Fire Prevention staff.
• Maintain accurate records and assist with follow-up inspections as directed.
• Operate a department or City vehicle as assigned to conduct field inspections.
• Comply with all safety procedures, policies, and training requirements.

QUALIFICATIONS

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Education:
Equivalent to completion of the twelfth (12th) grade. A degree OR some college experience in the fields of Fire Technology or Fire Prevention is desirable.

Experience:
None required. Background in Prevention or Fire Service, desirable.

Licenses and Certifications:
Possession of a current and valid California Driver’s License and satisfactory driving record to be maintained throughout employment. An out-of-state license may be used during the hiring process, but a valid California Driver’s License must be obtained prior to appointment.

Knowledge and abilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Knowledge of:

• Basic goals and principles of public service.
• General principles of organization, administration and management.

Ability to:

• Learn to research, comprehend, interpret, and apply laws/legislation, rules, regulations, procedures, and related information; comply with laws, regulations, and professional practices.
• Learn to collect and analyze data to establish/identify needs and evaluate program effectiveness.
• Learn to initiate studies and prepare reports on administrative issues.
• Plan, organize, and prioritize daily assignments and work activities.
• Use computer assistance to gather and analyze data.
• Effectively communicate and interact with City management staff, department managers, the general public, and all other groups involved in the activities of the department both orally and in writing; communicate effectively with people of diverse socioeconomic backgrounds and temperaments.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

For more information, please visit the City's Human Resources page:
Human Resources
Salary Schedules
Benefit Guide
Physical Demands

This position is non-benefited.

In accordance with California state law, you are entitled to five (5) paid sick leave days per year. These days are eligible for use following your 90th day of employment with the City.