Fire Protective Equipment Technician

Sioux Falls Fire and Rescue is looking for a passionate and dedicated individual to serve in this crucial role that manages all personal protective equipment for our uniformed personnel. 

Sioux Falls Fire Rescue is nationally accredited and viewed as one of the largest and most respected fire departments in the upper Midwest. This role directly supports more?than?200 team members.

Perform duties in support of department members related to the advanced cleaning, inventory management, inspection, repair, and routine maintenance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) firefighting ensemble elements and related equipment in compliance with applicable NFPA standards. 

1. Under the supervision of the assigned Fire Division Chief, is responsible for performing duties related to the inspecting, cleaning, and repairing of PPE worn by Firefighters and other SFFR personnel utilizing specific standards detailed in applicable NFPA standards.
2. Perform other routine maintenance and repairs related to PPE equipment as assigned and provide technical assistance as needed. Support the department and its assigned members in the monitoring of independent service providers and contractors to ensure work is completed to compliance standards.
3. Assist and support, as assigned, department members with independent service providers to ensure proper repair procedures are followed. As assigned, review manufacturer manuals to recommend specific requirements for those PPE elements. Assist and support, as assigned, departmental required reporting to ensure maintenance records are current.   
4. Assist the Fire Division Chief and the assigned department members in estimating supply and program costs for budget purposes. Make recommendations regarding maintenance scheduling, requests for services, and purchase of products and equipment in coordination with the PPE selection committee. Provide input regarding standards, regulations, and effectiveness of PPE maintenance activities.
5. Utilize proprietary software programs as assigned in support of ensuring that PPE cleaning work is properly recorded and tracked in adherence with applicable NFPA   standards.
6. Maintain regular internal communication regarding advanced PPE cleaning and maintenance activities. Demonstrate and train SFFR personnel in conducting routine cleaning and inspection of basic PPE elements and when to make equipment available for advanced cleaning.
7. Operate City vehicles and other equipment as required.
8. Perform other such duties and functions as are necessary or incidental to the proper performance of this position.

Graduation from high school or GED certification with a minimum of two (2) years’ experience in specialized repair, maintenance, inventory/material distribution, and cleaning work, or related area, and experience with Microsoft Office software; or any such combination of education, experience, and training as may be acceptable to the hiring authority.

Must successfully complete PPE element manufacturer certification training within six (6) months of hire.

Must possess or be able to obtain prior to hire a valid driver’s license.

• Knowledge of materials, methods, and equipment employed in cleaning and maintenance operations.

• Ability over time to gain knowledge of applicable NFPA standards related to the cleaning and maintenance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

• Ability to work independently with limited direct supervision.

• Ability to organize and prioritize work and meet critical deadlines.

• Possess strong oral and written communication skills.

• Possess strong customer service skills with the ability to remain calm in stressful situations.

• Ability to use independent judgment in ordering supplies and materials.

• Ability to maintain accurate and legible records.

• General mechanical ability.

• Knowledge of basic records management practices and procedures.

• Experience with Microsoft Office and related inventory management software products.

• Ability to give and follow oral and written instructions.

• Willing to work standby and extended hours when required.