Fire Prevention Public Educator

Position Summary

This position is responsible for supporting the development, delivery, and evaluation of fire safety education and prevention programs to the community to reduce risk and enhance public safety. Working under the functional guidance and leadership of the Fire Prevention Officer, the role supports compliance with applicable legislation through public outreach, inspections, and investigations, while promoting fire prevention awareness across a variety of audiences and communication platforms.

Job Title                Public Educator (Fire services)

Wage                             Probation $69,659 to 1^st Class $107,168 Yearly (2023)

Reports To           Deputy Chief, Fire Prevention

Department         Fire Service

Location               Headquarters, or as assigned

Hours                   Full-time, Normal working hours are 40 hours per week

Other                    This posting is for an existing, currently open position within Kawartha Lakes Fire Services. Applications will be reviewed as received. Ability to work additional hours as required to support operational needs. Travel throughout the City of Kawartha Lakes in accordance with job requirements, work location may vary depending on assigned duties

Essential Duties

• Supports the development, implementation, and delivery of public education programs, presentations, and outreach initiatives to promote fire safety and fire prevention in accordance with the Fire Protection and Prevention Act
• Engages with community members, schools, businesses, and other groups to provide fire safety information and increase awareness of fire risks and prevention practices
• Utilizes fire incident data and trends and Community Risk Assessment (CRA) findings to identify priority risks and develop targeted fire safety education strategies and programs
• Creates and maintains fire prevention content across communication platforms, including social media, print media, and websites
• Participates in site plan evaluations and provides input on fire safety requirements and considerations
• Responds to public inquiries and complaints related to fire safety, providing information, guidance, and follow-up as required
• Collaborates with other City departments, external agencies, community partners, and regulatory bodies to support coordinated prevent efforts
• Maintains professional currency and personal competency related to pertinent legislation, codes, and fire prevention practices; adheres to health and safety legislation, corporate policies, standards, and departmental Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

Qualifications

• Post-secondary training in Fire Safety, Public Education or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Minimum three (3) years of related progressive experience in fire public education is preferred
• Successful completion of National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1035 – Fire and Life Safety Educator Level I (Ontario certified) is required
• NFPA 1035 – Level II and Public Information Officer certification is preferred and required to be obtained within the probationary period
• Ability and willingness to pursue additional training to achieve Fire Inspector I certification through the Ontario Fire College
• Knowledge and experience utilizing public education principles, including child and adult learning methodologies
• Basic knowledge of and ability to interpret applicable legislation and regulations, including the Ontario Fire Code, Ontario Building Code, municipal by-laws, and related enforcement processes
• Basic knowledge of building construction, fire protection systems, and the hazards of flammable and combustible materials
• Familiarity with firefighting principles, practices, and equipment gained through training or practical experience; first responder experience is considered an asset
• Strong communication, facilitation, and presentation skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences
• Possess and maintain current CPR and Defibrillation certifications
• Possess and maintain a valid Ontario Class “G” Driver’s Licence in good standing with acceptable driver’s abstract
• Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Suite, social media platforms, and related software; ability to use audio-visual, presentation, and photography equipment
• Possess and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and personal attributes as described in the key performance competencies
• Upon a conditional offer of employment, a Criminal Record Check will be required

Applicants must also be prepared for practical skill testing during the recruitment process.

Confidentiality

All employees of the City of Kawartha Lakes are required to sign and abide by the Employee Confidentiality Statement in support of the organizational requirements related to the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA).

Accommodation

Accommodation requests will be reviewed on an individual basis in compliance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and any other Federal or Provincial legislation.