Water Tender Operator – Fire

JOB
The Water Tender Operator serves on an on-call and as-needed basis, at the discretion of the Fire Chief, to supplement or augment department staffing levels. This position may be activated for single resource deployments, task force assignments, or other operational needs as determined by the Fire Chief. Assignment and utilization are not guaranteed and are based solely on the operational needs of the department and the discretion of the Fire Chief.Hourly Rate: $38.41Under general supervision, responds on an on-call/as-needed basis to fire and emergency incidents to support fire suppression efforts by supplying water to fire apparatus and operations. Operates and maintains water tender vehicles, pumps, and related equipment in a safe and effective manner. Assists with apparatus readiness, equipment checks, and support services. This position does not engage in direct fire suppression but provides critical logistical support under the direction of the Incident Commander or their designee. Performs other related duties as assigned. Examples of DutiesThe duties listed below are intended only as general illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position. Management reserves the right to add, modify, change or rescind work assignments as needed. · Responds to fire alarms and emergency incidents by operating a water tender vehicle to deliver and supply water to fire suppression units at the scene.· Drives and operates water tenders and related equipment, including pumps, valves, hoses, and fittings, to support firefighting operations in a safe and effective manner.· Performs routine inspections and minor maintenance on water tender vehicles and equipment to ensure readiness and operational reliability.· Supports incident operations by deploying portable tanks, supplying water to engines, and assisting with hose lays and refills under the direction of the Incident Commander or designee.· Participates in ongoing training related to vehicle operations, pumping techniques, and safety procedures for water tender operations.· Completes required documentation and reports related to equipment maintenance, incident support activities, and vehicle inspections using electronic or manual systems.· Maintains operational knowledge of water delivery systems, wildland and structural support tactics, and agency-specific protocols related to water supply logistics.Typical QualificationsVolunteers appointed to this position shall be a minimum of 21 years of age at time of appointment. Education and/or Experience· High School graduation or equivalent or possession of a General Educational Development (GED) certificate is required.· Two years of service experience as a water tender operator engaged in incidents License or Certification: · Successful completion of the requirements for the classification NWGC Type 2 firefighter.· Possession of a valid California Commercial Driver License with air brake and tanker endorsements, or a California Class C Firefighter Endorsement.· Completion for California State Fire Marshal Driver Operator 1A course· Possess and maintain a valid American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) certificate or equivalent. · Possess and maintain a valid Title 22 Public Safety First Aid certificationDesirable Certifications · CSFM Water Tender Driver Operator Certification Knowledge of: · Principles and practices of modern fire suppression support and emergency incident operations.· Procedures and equipment used in fireground water supply, apparatus support, and incident logistics.· Fundamental methods and safety practices for handling hazardous materials during emergency support operations.· Principles of fire apparatus hydraulics, water delivery systems, and pump operations.· Proper operation, use, and maintenance of pump engines, water tenders, and fire service equipment used in water supply and support roles. Skills and Ability to: · Safely drive, operate, and maintain water tenders and associated water delivery equipment.· Operate fire pumps, valves, and plumbing systems to effectively deliver water at emergency scenes.· Perform basic hydraulic calculations related to pump pressure, flow rates, and water supply logistics.· Conduct routine inspections and minor maintenance on water tender apparatus to ensure operational readiness.· Accurately document vehicle checks, water usage, and equipment operations.· Understand and follow verbal and written instructions with minimal supervision.· Adhere to safety protocols and standard operating procedures related to water tender operations.· Communicate effectively using mobile and vehicle-mounted radios.· Operate basic office and reporting equipment, including computers or mobile devices.· Work cooperatively and professionally with fire personnel, partner agencies, and the public during emergency and non-emergency operations.· Demonstrate physical ability to operate heavy vehicles and perform equipment setup tasks under emergency conditions. Arrowbear Lake Fire Department (ABLFD) – No Tobacco Use PolicyThe Arrowbear Lake Fire Department maintains a strict No Tobacco Use Policy for all personnel. The use of tobacco products—including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, snuff, electronic cigarettes, and vaping devices is prohibited at all times, both on and off duty. This policy applies to all department members, including career staff, volunteers, and on-call personnel. Probationary Period: Volunteers appointed to the classification of Water Tender Operator shall serve a minimum one (1) year probationary period from the date of appointment. Water Tender Operators will undergo a formal performance appraisal at the one-year mark to assess their suitability and capability to perform the full scope of duties outlined in this classification. A Water Tender Operator who does not successfully complete the probationary period may have their probation extended, be released from the position, or be separated from the department if initially appointed from outside the organization. Annual Evaluation: On or near the anniversary date of appointment, each volunteer Water Tender Operator shall be evaluated by their immediate supervisor to identify areas of strength and opportunities for improvement. All Water Tender Operators shall complete an annual skills evaluation to ensure they continue to meet the essential functions and operational requirements of the position.