• Job Description

  Req#: 4345443
  The City of Oakland is an equal opportunity employer that values workforce diversity, inclusion, and equity. Oakland has a long history of activism around issues of justice and equity. Both oppression and this resistance to oppression have shaped the city’s historical roots and the lives of its residents to this day. As public servants in one of the most diverse cities in the nation, we strive to develop employees who understand the harm and impacts of systemic inequity to create lasting, meaningful outcomes for everyone. Oakland strives to establish an environment that embraces the richness of culture, community, and individualism of employees.
  
  
  
  
  Candidate Orientation: February 23, 2024 at 2:00 PM
  Interested applicants are encouraged to attend. A Microsoft Teams calendar invitation will be sent to those who apply.
  
  Stage I of the Examination: February 29, 2024 at 9:00 AM
  Stage II of the Examination: The week of April 22nd, 2024
  
  All stages will be held at Human Resources Management
  150 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, 2nd floor
  
  The City of Oakland is currently recruiting to fill two (2) Captain of Fire vacancies within the Oakland Fire Department (OFD). Under general direction, the Captain of Fire is responsible for all shifts at a fire station, and has command responsibilities at the scene of an emergency in the absence of a Battalion Chief. A Captain may also supervise a major functional area of the OFD, such as training and dispatch. In addition to line supervision at emergencies, the Captain implements inspections, performs and/or directs pre-fire planning and equipment and/or facilities maintenance; provides in-service training; oversees records management and community relations; enforces discipline, rules and regulations; fulfills other management duties at the fire station level; and performs related duties as assigned.
  This is a sworn, public safety officer classification responsible for supervision of a fire station. This classification is distinguished from Lieutenant of Fire in that the Captain has decision-making authority over the Lieutenant. The Captain is further distinguished from Battalion Chief in that Captains are responsible for a single station, whereas Battalion Chiefs are responsible for the entire district, and the Battalion Chief is a member of the Senior Staff. The Captain assumes Incident Command in the absence of the Battalion Chief (or higher ranking officer). Incumbents receive direction from a Battalion Chief and exercise supervision over Lieutenants, Engineers, Firefighter Paramedics, and Firefighters.
  
  
  Examples of the Work Functions
  Below is a description of possible events in a working day of a Captain of Fire job. It is intended to inform potential candidates of the typical functions performed by a Captain of Fire. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all the duties performed, nor all the knowledge, skills and abilities employed by a Captain of Fire. The examination may include knowledge, skills, and abilities not covered in the description below.
  
  
  Scenario 1:
  Captain Wong is assigned to Station 99. As a senior grade company officer, Captain Wong is responsible for supervising personnel under their command. This week, Captain Wong directs and monitors equipment tests and preventive maintenance of equipment. They have also ordered personnel to audit all Departmental Rules and Regulations housed at the station for completeness and currency. They also direct their Lieutenant to personally check to make sure that all training materials recently borrowed from the training center have been returned.
  
  Function 1:
  Apply technical and administrative knowledge to direct internal activities at a station and to ensure operational readiness. Demonstrate management skills and effective oral communication to supervise station personnel. Demonstrate knowledge of OFD policies and procedures.
  
  Scenario 2:
  Captain Wong checks the shift schedule and learns that personnel are out sick due to an outbreak of influenza. One firefighter appears to be sick and not fit for duty and is sent home. Captain Wong adjusts work assignments and requests overtime for specific personnel through their Battalion Chief.
  
  Function 2:
  Use knowledge of Telestaff scheduling and resource allocation to plan, organize, and direct the activities of station personnel. Work closely with colleagues at other stations as well as senior commanding officers to promote overall Department readiness. Evaluate the fitness of station personnel and take corrective action when appropriate.
  
  Scenario 3:
  The station is scheduled to perform an inspection at a nearby industrial plant. Captain Wong directs a new firefighter to assist in the inspection as part of their on-the-job training. The team arrives at the plant and the Captain makes assignments for the inspection. The plant manager has a number of questions regarding an upcoming modification to the facility, to which the Captain responds. During the inspection, a malfunction is identified in one element of the sprinkler system. Captain Wong issues a written order on the spot to correct the problem and later provides written notification to the Fire Prevention Bureau, whose inspectors will follow-up on the violation.
  
  Function 3:
  Use knowledge of state and local laws, ordinances, codes, and regulations to respond to inquiries (from both the public and from subordinate personnel) and to detect violations and corrective action required. Educate and advise the public using diplomacy, tact, and (when necessary) firm direction. Identify training needs at the station, provide or coordinate recurring training programs (individual or small group) for station personnel.
  
  Scenario 4:
  As the inspection team is leaving the plant, they are dispatched to a serious residential fire. Since the Battalion Chief is not immediately available, Captain Wong evaluates the fire on arrival and rapidly directs the placement of personnel and equipment. They coordinate traffic and crowd control with police units at the scene, and determine what other actions are required (e.g., rescue operations, second alarm, HAZMAT response, etc.). Minor injuries are involved, and Captain Wong directs first aid efforts.
  
  Function 4:
  Assume incident command in the absence of the Battalion Chief, employing leadership and resource management skills to direct the activities of company personnel. Rapidly size-up situations and evaluate safety concerns, develop tactics, and coordinate actions with other companies and agencies. Demonstrate decisiveness, composure, good judgment, and efficient application of firefighting methods. Flexibly adjust plans and tactics as needed. Evaluate need for resources and request accordingly.
  
  Read the complete job description by clicking this link.
  
  *Click on the link below to see a video on what it's like to work for the City of Oakland!
  Working for the City of Oakland
  Minimum Qualifications
  The position requires the following education, experience, and qualifications:
  Education:
  High school diploma or equivalent. Acceptable written evidence of completion of all requirements for certification as Fire Officer or the equivalent/replacement Company Officer through the Office of the California State Fire Marshal (per Local 55 MOU Section 4.8.6 Examination Eligibility).
  Experience:
  Completion of twenty-four (24) months of service as an OFD Lieutenant of Fire.
  
  License or Certificate / Other Requirements
  Must possess a valid California Class “C” or higher driver's license throughout the tenure of employment. Must maintain Firefighter certification through the OFD, including medical clearance, and any other DMV and/or Department-required endorsements.
  Must possess a current Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) license/certification, or higher, that meets standards of the California Emergency Medical Services Authority and ability to obtain and maintain accreditation in the Alameda County EMS District throughout the tenure of employment.
  Must possess a current Alameda County EMS Agency approved certification for Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) such as BLS for Healthcare Providers throughout the tenure of employment.
  A unit member promoted to the rank of Captain of Fire Department must possess or successfully complete an Office of the State Fire Marshal Company Officer Task Book within six (6) months of date of appointment. Note: Efforts to begin completing the Task Book may be initiated prior to promotion in accordance with Office of the California State Fire Marshal guidelines but must be fulfilled within six (6) months of promoting to Captain.
  
  This is a public contact position. The City highly encourages all bilingual candidates to apply! Some positions may require bilingual skills in Spanish, Cantonese, or Mandarin. Under the authority of Civil Service Rules Section 5.03, if a position requires bilingual language skills, only those candidates who have indicated they are bilingual in the required language(s) will be referred. Bilingual candidates will be required to successfully pass a language proficiency test if selected for hire.
  
  OTHER REQUIREMENTS
  Must be eighteen (18) years of age or older by the application closing date.
  Must pass a thorough background investigation.
  The Recruitment Process:
  The City of Oakland works with a Civil Service system. Applicants apply online, and HR staff reviews their experience, education, and training listed on the application against the “minimum qualifications” listed for each position.
  
  Candidates who demonstrate that they meet the minimum qualification requirements are then invited to participate in an assessment process (or testing) to measure their knowledge, skills, and abilities in job-related areas.
  
  In accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City of Oakland and International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) Local 55, this selection process is based on a current job analysis designed to identify essential job-related tasks and performance dimensions. The evaluative dimensions and their respective weights that will be used in the selection process are summarized below.
  
  The City of Oakland reserves the right to modify the selection process and date of examination as necessary to conform to administrative or business necessity. The information contained in this announcement is subject to change and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.
  
  
  Candidate Orientation: February 23, 2024 at 2:00 PM via Microsoft Teams . Interested applicants are encouraged to attend. A Microsoft Teams calendar invitation will be sent to those who apply.
  
  Stage I – Written Examinatio n: February 29, 2024 at 9:00 AM. This first stage in the selection process will consist of an objective multiple-choice test (weighted 32.86%) based primarily on the reading list. No written notification will be provided for Stage I unless an applicant is deemed ineligible; therefore, all candidates should report directly to the test site for Stage I at the scheduled time unless they are notified otherwise. Candidates must bring a picture identification card issued by a government agency to be admitted to the exam. After the reporting time, the entrance to the test will be closed and no one will be admitted. The Human Resources Management Department will make reasonable efforts in the examination process to accommodate persons with documented disabilities. Please advise Human Resources no later than February 22, 2024. if you would like to request a special accommodation. For the Request for Reasonable Accommodation in Testing form, please click here: https://cao-94612.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/Request-for-Reasonable-Accommodation-in-Testing-2.9.22-Fillable.pdf (Download PDF reader)
  
  This test will evaluate the following dimensions:
  
  Supervision and Personnel Management – 8.65%
  Fire Science/Fire Service – 8.64%
  Policies, Procedures, and Recommendations – 8.19%
  Administrative Tasks – 7.38%
  
  Stage II – Assessment Center: The Week of April 22, 2024. The second stage in the selection process will consist of a variety of job-related assessment exercises (weighted 67.14%) designed to simulate the tasks and responsibilities of the position. Written notification will be provided after Stage I and will include the date and time to report for Stage II.
  
  
  
  The Stage II assessment center will evaluate the following dimensions:
  
  Fire and Emergency Scene Tactics and Strategy - 9.54%
  Professional Demeanor - 8.89%
  Interpersonal Skills - 8.75%
  Leadership/Supervision - 8.24%
  Oral Communication - 8.14%
  Problem Solving/Decision Making - 8.08%
  Written Communication - 7.76%
  Planning/Organization - 7.74%
  
  Candidates must achieve a passing score on the Emergency Simulation exercise in the assessment center and overall passing scores on both stages of the examination process in order to be placed on the eligibility list.
  
  Names of candidates who achieve a passing score for both Stage I and Stage II will be placed on an eligibility list which will be valid until the eligibility list is exhausted or canceled by the Personnel Director pursuant to Civil Service Rule 4.20. Please note that final appointments will be made from the list based on department (OFD) interviews. Consideration will be given to past job performance, education, training and demonstrated participation in departmental and community projects and activities. Therefore, placement on the eligibility list is not a guarantee of a promotion, and appointments may not be made in strict rank order.
  
  Disaster Service Workers
  All employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law. 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.
  
  
  How to Apply
  Apply prior to the closing time of the job announcement and allow at least two to three hours to submit your application if you are a new user of the system. APPLICATIONS ARE ACCEPTED ONLINE ONLY. You may apply and view current openings by visiting our employment opportunities webpage at: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/oaklandca/default.cfm.
  
  If you do not have access to a computer, there are computer stations available at any City of Oakland Public Library. There are also workstations at the Human Resources Management Department, 150 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, 2nd Floor, Oakland, CA 94612. Workstations are available during regular business hours (normally 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.).
  
  Our online application system is provided by GovernmentJobs. If you have problems while applying online, please contact GovernmentJobs Live Applicant Support at (855) 524-5627 between 6:00 AM and 5:00 PM Pacific Time, Monday - Friday. You may also call the City of Oakland Human Resources Management Department during regular business hours at (510) 238-3112 for information; however, we are unable to provide technical support for the online application system. For recruitment-specific questions, please contact Terry Stanley, Senior Human Resources Analyst at tstanley@oaklandca.gov.
  
  
  Additional Information for Applicants
  
  
  Reading List
  Administrative Instructions:
  1. City of Oakland. (2020, March 9). Administrative Instruction 71 –Equal Employment Opportunity/Anti-Discrimination/Non-Harassment Policy and Complaint Procedure. Retrieved from:
  https://oaklandca.sharepoint.com/sites/intranet/CAO/Documents/Administrative Instructions/AI 71 - Equal Opportunity.pdf
  
  2. City of Oakland, Human Resources Management. (2020, September 1). Administrative Instruction 544 – Managing Violence in the Workplace. Retrieved from:
  https://oaklandca.sharepoint.com/sites/intranet/CAO/Documents/Forms/AllItems.aspxcsf=1&web=1&e=7E5lvO&cid=48129c35-825b-454f-a719-6dcde72fd93e&FolderCTID=0x012000CE117BE44CD6D9469C0FACE2E1734C93&id=/sites/intranet/CAO/Documents/Administrative Instructions/AI 544 - Managing Violence in the Workplace.pdf&parent=/sites/intranet/CAO/Documents/Administrative Instructions
  
  3. City of Oakland. (1996, July 1). Administrative Instruction 577 – City of Oakland Policy Regarding Alcohol and Drug Use. Retrieved from:
  https://oaklandca.sharepoint.com/sites/intranet/CAO/Documents/Administrative Instructions/AI 577 - Alcohol and Drug Use.pdf
  
  Policies and Procedures :
  4. City of Oakland, Oakland Fire Department. Policies and Procedures. Retrieved from:
  https://oaklandca.sharepoint.com/sites/intranet/OFD/Documents/Forms/AllItems.aspxcsf=1&web=1&e=CVh2ca&cid=615546fd-660d-4adb-bbb1-4161197f4c6f&RootFolder=/sites/intranet/OFD/Documents/Policy & Procedures&FolderCTID=0x012000635F64F2FBA36841B027A02874EC9C
  
  5. City of Oakland, Oakland Fire Department. (2015, January 1). Rules and Regulations. Retrieved from
  https://www.dropbox.com/s/givstnj5d8r57pt/Rules and Regulations.pdf?dl=0
  
  6. City of Oakland, Oakland Fire Department. (2005). Admin. Forms Manual. Retrieved from:
  https://oaklandca.sharepoint.com/sites/intranet/OFD/Documents/Forms/AllItems.aspx?id=/sites/intranet/OFD/Documents/Forms Manual/OFD Admin Forms Manual 2005.pdf&parent=/sites/intranet/OFD/Documents/Forms Manual
  
  7. City of Oakland, Oakland Fire Department. Standard Operating Guidelines (SOG). Retrieved from:
  https://oaklandca.sharepoint.com/sites/intranet/OFD/Documents/Forms/AllItems.aspx?id=/sites/intranet/OFD/Documents/SOG&viewid=8286d9c4-da8b-488b-acf8-f86cedc2addd
  
  Memorandum of Understanding :
  8. Memorandum of Understanding between City of Oakland and International Association of Firefighters, Local 55, November 1, 2020– December 31, 2023. Retrieved from:
  https://cao-94612.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/documents/MOU-International-Association-of-Firefighters-Local-55-Nov-1-2020-to-Dec-31-2023_2020-11-17-002153.pdf
  
  
  Article 2: Direct Pay for Services
  Article 3: Insurance Programs
  Article 4: Personnel Provisions
  Article 5: Health and Fitness for Duty
  Article 6: Leaves of Absence
  Article 7: Safety and Protective Clothing
  Article 9: Grievance Procedure
  Article 10: Special Provisions
  
  Books:
  9. Alameda County Emergency Medical Services. (2022). Multi-Casualty Incident - EMS Response Pages 159-161. 2022 Field Manual. San Leandro, CA: Alameda County Emergency Medical Services.
  
  10. Teie, W. C. (2018). Firefighter's Handbook on Wildland Firefighting: Strategy, Tactics and Safety. (4th Edition). Stillwater, OK: Fire Protection Publications, Oklahoma State University.
  
  11. International Fire Service Training Association. (2019). Fire and Emergency Services Company Officer . (6th Edition). Stillwater, OK: Fire Protection Publications, Oklahoma State University.
  
  Chapter 3: Leadership and Supervision
  Chapter 4: Human Resources Management
  Chapter 7: Occupational Safety, Health, and Wellness
  Chapter 8: Company-Level Training
  Chapter 15: Delivery of Emergency Services II
  Chapter 16: Safety Investigations and Analyses
  Appendix B: Fire Flow Calculations
  Appendix C: Formula for Calculating Frequency and Severity of Risk
  
  12. Tiedemann, J. S. (2019). Pocket Guide to the Firefighters Procedural Bill of Rights Act. (5th Edition). Berkeley, CA: California Public Employee Relations, Institute for Research on Labor and Employment, University of California at Berkeley.
  
  
  
  
  

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