Lab Assistant - Fire Science Technology

Harper College

  • Palatine, IL
  • Permanent
  • Part-time
  • 1 day ago
Job Category: ProfessionalResponsibilities:Coordinates the operation of all fire science facilities in scheduling, organizing, supplying, and maintaining laboratory areas in support of the ongoing educational program in Fire Science Technology Department. Collaborates with Fire Science Technology Program Coordinator and Dean to meet department needs.Maintains, operates, and monitors the safety of the Emergency Services Training Center (ESTC), supply room, classroom, fire engine, and storage facilities.Assists Fire Science Technology coordinator with ESTC scheduling for credit and non-credit and courses with varying levels of equipment and gear usage.Assists faculty in providing support and assistance to students in specifically designated lab classes.Oversees the maintenance and servicing of fire science laboratory equipment. This may include, but not limited to, assessing equipment performance; repairing as needed, or contacting specialty vendors.Maintains inventory of consumable supplies and equipment; and orders supplies and equipment as needed.Maintains safety procedures for fire science training and ESTC.Works collaboratively with others (e.g., colleagues, stakeholders, vendors) to accomplish functions and responsibilities.Provides additional support to the Fire Science Technology program as needed.Performs additional responsibilities as assigned.Working Conditions/Physical Requirements:Work is performed in both indoor and outdoor environments and may involve exposure to varying weather conditions. Duties require regular lifting of up to 50 pounds, as well as pushing, pulling, bending, and other physical activities. The position also requires the ability to wear and operate in firefighter personal protective equipment (PPE) and, on an occasional basis, to safely wear and use a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), including successful completion of annual fit testing, when operating burn props at the Emergency Services Training Center. This includes working in live fire environments with heat exposure and reduced-visibility conditions. The position will also require occasional off-site travel and the ability to operate and drive fire apparatus. Part-time, 20 hours per week, with a flexible schedule to meet department needs, including possible evenings and weekends.Equipment/Tools Used:This position utilizes standard office equipment, including computers, to perform administrative and instructional duties. In addition, the position requires driving and operating fire apparatus, including the operation of fire pumps and aerial devices, as well as the operation and preventive maintenance of live fire burn props and firefighting equipment such as ladders, fire hose, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), hand tools, and other equipment weighing 50 pounds or more. The position also involves using maintenance and servicing equipment for SCBA annual testing and preventive maintenance.Qualifications:Education:Associate's degree required. Office of the State Fire Marshal Fire Instructor II certification. Office of the State Fire Marshal Fire Apparatus Engineer (FAE) certification. Office of the State Fire Marshal Advanced Technician Firefighter (ATF) or Firefighter III certification.Experience:Seven years of fire service operational experience. Five years of experience delivering fire service instruction and training to firefighters or fire service personnel. Extensive knowledge and hands-on experience in Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) operation, preventive maintenance, and annual testing; SCBA maintenance certification is preferred. Ability to drive and operate fire apparatus, including pump operations and aerial operations, as well as perform preventive maintenance and demonstrate a working knowledge of mechanical systems. Possession of a State of Illinois Class 'B' non-exempt driver's license. Ability to obtain NFPA 1403 Live Fire Credential within one year of hire.OTHER SKILLS AND SPECIFICATIONS:
  • Ability to work independently while also building good working relationships at all levels of the department.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and internet-based applications.
  • Strong attention to detail and good organizational skills.
  • Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Basic knowledge of inventory management.
  • Support for the College's mission, vision, goals, and values.

Harper College