Hazardous Materials Administrator

Job Description

Hazardous Materials Administrator (124)

(Unclassified)

Education and Experience

Minimum qualifications: B.S. Degree in Chemistry or approved related field from an accredited college or university, and two (2) years recent experience in the storage and handling of hazardous materials; or A.S. Degree in Chemistry or related field and four (4) years recent experience in the storage and handling of hazardous materials. Additional experience in a municipal Fire Prevention Agency is desirable.

License

Possession of a valid California Driver's License.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This is a management position in the unclassified fire service. An incumbent in this classification is responsible for the operation of the Hazardous Materials Administration Division and coordinates the operations of the other Hazardous Materials Divisions and is expected to provide direction to the Hazardous Materials Specialists. Additionally, the incumbent will be expected to work in a coordinated effort to carry out the common responsibilities of each Hazardous Materials Division as defined Section 2-66 of the City Code.

Typical Duties

Under general direction, coordinates the activities of the Hazardous Materials Divisions of the Santa Clara Fire Department; plans and develops the activities of the Hazardous Materials Administration Division; participates in Training Programs on hazardous materials for Fire Department personnel and for industry; participates in the implementation of program and enforcement requirements to assure compliance with new regulations; conducts inspections as a means of identifying transportation, processing, storage and handling of hazardous materials with create fire and other safety hazards; under emergency conditions may enter areas where hazardous materials are present to evaluate and determine the degree of hazard and advise other public safety personnel of their findings; is required to operate emergency vehicles in responding to emergency situations and utilize other required tools and equipment; may appear in court to provide expert testimony in case of criminal complaints filed by Fire Department of offenses on fire laws, ordinances and regulations and on civil suits involving responsibility for effects of a hazardous material; assist in setting up emergency response teams; reacts quickly and calmly in emergency situations and maintains radio communications with other personnel involved; writes clear and concise reports commensurate with responsibilities; and does related work as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Thorough knowledge of chemicals and their potential hazard individually and in combination with other chemicals; working knowledge of transportation, processing, storage, and handling methods of hazardous materials; knowledge of teaching/training techniques; ability to gather, analyze, and present data clearly; ability to analyze situations and make appropriate recommendations; ability to speak and write effectively; ability to establish and maintain cooperative and positive working relationships with others; ability to supervise the work of others.

Supervision Received

Works under the general direction of the Fire Chief or other supervisor as assigned.

Supervision Exercised

As directed by the Fire Chief provides direction to and coordinates the work efforts of the Hazardous Materials Specialists. May supervise other personnel assigned to work in the Hazardous Materials Unit or under any other of his/her areas of responsibility.

Special Conditions

Required to be available on an on-call basis and maintain a residence within 7 1/2 mile radius of City Hall within six months after appointment.

Approved, September 1987