Fire Training Officer

About the Position

Do words like tactics, fire dynamics, hazmat and technical rescue spark your creativity? Do you take pride in the opportunity to educate new and existing firefighters on modern approaches to emergency response? Are you up to the challenge of commissioning a new, state-of-the-art live fire training tower to augment our existing training facility? If so, you may have found your calling in Welland. Working as a key member of our Training Division, the Training Officer will have a critical role in developing new and updated training programs.

We need an enthusiastic and high performing fire service professional who can contribute to the continued success of our Training Division. The responsibility in this position is significant, and it provides the opportunity to make a profound difference in the professional development of current and future firefighters.

Under the direction of the Chief Training Officer, the Training Officer will be responsible to develop, deliver, evaluate and maintain training programs, standard operating guidelines and procedures for all Fire personnel (Career and Volunteer). This position will also research new skills for emergency responders, including the introduction of new equipment, develop and/or revise draft standard operating guidelines and/or procedures.

Duties & Responsibilities

The duties listed are not meant to provide a description of every job performed but only those which represent the core functions of the job.

• Independently develop, from start to finish, training programs, plans and materials for practical and lecture style training sessions.
• Develop and prepare learning materials including; lesson plans, training safety plans, training aids and manuals.
• Identify the best learning styles and adjust the training environment.
• Identify the learning needs of participants and adjust the training environment to ensure success.
• Coordinates the delivery of fire and emergency service related training programs.
• Manages the training environment so that the educational, safety and environmental needs of learners/participants are met and the highest level of training is supported.
• Assess the performance of fire & emergency services personnel using fair and objective written, oral and practical assessment tools.
• Work independently, researching standards and best practices and applying them to the Welland Fire and Emergency Services.
• Provide ongoing support to staff and training programs.
• Supervise assigned staff in accordance with Department policies and procedures so that personnel receive sufficient support and direction to effectively perform their duties.
• Improve teaching and learning.
• Research and evaluate Department policies, procedures, guidelines, ongoing training programs, techniques, and equipment.
• Conduct career development activities for fire and emergency services personnel.
• Maintain comprehensive records electronic records and develops reports on training.
• Demonstrate that safety is a priority in the fire & emergency service.
• Remain current with new legislation and training innovations.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

What you need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

• ProBoard and/or IFSAC certification in:
• NFPA 1021 Fire Officer I.
• NFPA 1041 Fire Instructor II.
• Current Heart and Stroke First Aid and CPR.
• Seven (7) years’ experience in the fire service with a minimum two (2) years’ service as a company officer.
• Three (3) years’ experience in training firefighters in a unionized environment.
• Possess a valid Class “D” Ontario Driver’s License with “Z” Air Brake endorsement.
• Possess strong presentation and communication skills (both oral and written).
• Knowledge of modern firefighting practices and techniques.
• Possess strong leadership skills along with well-developed analytical, critical thinking, and decision making skills.
• Proficient in Windows based operating systems and specifically Microsoft Office Suite with the ability to adapt quickly to new software.
• Experience working with fire service Records Management Systems. 
• Be motivated and self-directed, working with minimal supervision.

Other Desirable Qualifications:

• ProBoard and/or IFSAC certification in:
• NFPA 1021 Fire Officer lI or higher.
• NFPA 1521 Incident Safety Officer.
• NFPA 472/1072 Hazardous Materials Technician.
• NFPA 1002 Pumping Apparatus Driver Operator.
• College Diploma in Teaching and Training Adults (TATA) or equivalent college level, or higher, certificate.
• Current Heart and Stroke First Aid and CPR Instructor, or equivalent.
• Experience working in a composite fire service.

Salary and Benefit Information

Starting Salary: $115,914 (July 2023 rate) plus a comprehensive benefits package and OMERS pension.