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First-Line Supervisors of Firefighting and Prevention Workers

SOC 33-1021.00Job Zone 3 · Medium Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers fire station, incident scene, training ground, and administrative environments in which first-line supervisors lead firefighting and prevention crews across structural, wildland, medical, and hazardous-materials operations.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Firefighter positioning and strategic assignments — identify correct placement locations under direct supervisor guidance during simulated rescue and suppression drills.
  2. Emergency medical and light rescue procedures — perform basic life support tasks and assist with light rescue functions under close supervision at training scenarios.
  3. Fire scene size-up fundamentals — recognize indicators of fire extent, building condition, and water supply status when accompanied by a senior officer on scene.
  4. Two-way radio communication protocols — transmit and receive fire incident details using standardized terminology under direct oversight in a station or dispatch training environment.
  5. Engine or hand crew roles — participate as a crew member under a working leader, following assigned duties within a structured firefighting team of three or more personnel.
  6. Fire department drill participation — follow instructed procedures for firefighting, basic medical care, and hazardous materials awareness during department-led training sessions.
  7. Suppression equipment inspection basics — check hoses, nozzles, SCBA units, and hand tools for readiness using department checklists under supervisory direction.
  8. Personnel performance observation — record observed firefighter behaviors and task completion during drills with guidance from an evaluating officer.
  9. Office suite and records software — enter incident data and routine documentation into department databases or office applications with step-by-step instruction.
  10. Active listening during incident briefings — demonstrate attentive comprehension of orders and safety briefings delivered by senior officers at the station or incident command post.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Crew positioning at active incidents — assign firefighters to strategic locations to support rescue operations and efficient agent application with limited supervisor input during routine structure fires.
  2. Emergency medical and rescue response — deliver emergency medical services and execute light-to-moderate rescue functions independently at vehicle accidents and similar field emergencies.
  3. Incident size-up assessment — evaluate fire conditions, structural integrity, exposure risks, and hydrant availability to determine initial crew requirements at single-alarm incidents.
  4. Interagency radio communications — relay accurate fire status updates and resource requests to dispatch centers and command superiors using two-way radio systems during active incidents.
  5. Working crew leadership — serve as lead supervisor of an engine, hand, or prescribed fire crew, coordinating tasks and maintaining crew accountability throughout routine suppression operations.
  6. Firefighter instruction and drill facilitation — lead department drills covering firefighting techniques, hazardous materials response, and medical care for assigned shift personnel.
  7. Suppression equipment maintenance program — perform and document periodic equipment inspections and minor maintenance to keep apparatus, SCBA, and tools mission-ready.
  8. Firefighter performance evaluation — assess individual crew member performance against department standards and provide structured feedback during routine evaluation cycles.
  9. GIS and mapping tools — interpret geographic information system outputs and printed maps to support resource deployment decisions at wildland or structural incidents.
  10. Time management under operational pressure — prioritize competing tasks and delegate assignments to crew members effectively during multi-task emergency responses.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Complex rescue and suppression coordination — direct multi-crew positioning and agent application strategies autonomously at large or technically demanding incidents involving structural collapse or trapped victims.
  2. Advanced emergency medical and heavy rescue operations — independently manage heavy rescue functions and advanced medical interventions at mass-casualty or confined-space emergencies.
  3. Multi-factor incident size-up and resource forecasting — synthesize fire behavior, building construction data, exposure threats, and water supply analysis to project crew and equipment needs across evolving incident conditions.
  4. Cross-agency communications management — coordinate radio traffic flow between crews, dispatch, and mutual-aid partners to maintain shared situational awareness throughout extended operations.
  5. Dynamic crew leadership in non-routine environments — lead helicopter, prescribed fire, or mixed-type crews through non-standard tactical scenarios, adapting plans as conditions change.
  6. Comprehensive training program delivery — design and instruct multi-topic training curricula covering firefighting, medical care, hazardous materials, and fire prevention for full company personnel.
  7. Equipment readiness system oversight — administer a company-level preventive maintenance and inspection schedule, identifying deficiencies and initiating repair actions to sustain operational readiness.
  8. Formal personnel performance management — conduct documented performance evaluations, identify development needs, and recommend personnel actions aligned with department standards and labor agreements.
  9. Analytical software and project tools — use analytical or scientific software and project management applications to evaluate suppression effectiveness data and plan training or resource allocation projects.
  10. Complex problem solving under stress — apply deductive and inductive reasoning to rapidly diagnose tactical failures and revise incident action plans in real-time at dynamic emergency scenes.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Strategic incident command leadership — direct multi-company or multi-agency suppression operations, establishing command structure, resource priorities, and tactical objectives at major incidents or disasters.
  2. Organizational rescue and medical capability development — establish standards and protocols for emergency medical and heavy rescue response capabilities across an entire battalion or division.
  3. Department-wide size-up and pre-incident planning — lead development of building pre-plans, resource deployment matrices, and water supply assessments that govern response across an entire jurisdiction.
  4. Communications and interoperability policy — design and implement interagency radio communication plans and dispatch center integration protocols to ensure seamless information flow across mutual-aid partners.
  5. Cross-functional crew leadership strategy — shape staffing models and crew assignment frameworks for engine, hand, helicopter, and prescribed fire units to optimize departmental operational readiness.
  6. Training and professional development program leadership — oversee design, delivery, and evaluation of department-wide training programs, integrating adult learning strategies and regulatory compliance requirements.
  7. Fleet and equipment lifecycle governance — establish preventive maintenance schedules, replacement planning criteria, and readiness metrics for all suppression equipment and apparatus across a station or battalion.
  8. Personnel management and workforce development — lead performance management systems, mentor emerging supervisors, and align personnel development plans with department succession and retention goals.
  9. Data-driven resource and technology strategy — leverage GIS, database, spreadsheet, and presentation software to analyze operational trends and present evidence-based resource recommendations to senior leadership.
  10. Organizational culture and resilience leadership — model and institutionalize leadership orientation, stress tolerance, and adaptability norms that sustain crew performance and safety across high-demand emergency operations.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-generated incident summaries — reviews pre-populated dispatch reports and AI-drafted situation reports to build familiarity with how automated tools frame fire conditions before applying independent judgment Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Real-time sensor data integration — monitors AI-aggregated feeds from building sensors, weather systems, and hydrant pressure tools during active incidents to supplement direct observation of fire extent and crew positioning WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Crew communication drafting — uses AI-assisted templates to structure radio communications and interagency situation reports, then edits for accuracy before transmitting to dispatch centers Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Incident assessment support — directs AI tools to synthesize aerial imagery, structural data, and historical fire behavior records, then applies critical thinking and scene observation to finalize crew placement and resource requests Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. After-action documentation — delegates initial drafting of incident after-action reports to an AI assistant using structured incident logs, then reviews and corrects the output to ensure operational accuracy before submission.
  3. Training scenario generation — tasks an AI system with producing realistic drill scenarios drawn from regional incident data, then evaluates and adapts the scenarios to match crew skill gaps and local hazard profiles WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Predictive resource allocation — evaluates AI-generated fire spread models and resource demand forecasts during complex multi-company incidents, integrating model outputs with direct situational awareness to override or confirm deployment decisions Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Cross-agency coordination architecture — leads the integration of AI-powered dispatch and monitoring platforms across interagency operations, establishing protocols that define when AI outputs escalate to human command authority and when they remain advisory WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. AI tool validation and governance — assesses the accuracy and operational reliability of AI monitoring and decision-support tools used by the crew, flags systematic errors to department technology officers, and sets unit-level standards for responsible AI use in emergency environments Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Active Listening
Score: 42.2 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Technology Use, Monitoring and Control
technology_use_monitoring_control
Sources:Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication10 statements
Emerging
  1. Radio transmission basics — relays fire incident details to dispatch using standard two-way radio protocols under supervision Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Crew briefing participation — conveys assigned post locations and tactical objectives to firefighters during pre-incident walkthroughs O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Incident status reporting — communicates fire progression, building conditions, and resource needs to superiors via radio with increasing accuracy and composure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Drill instruction delivery — explains firefighting, medical care, and hazmat response procedures to crew members during structured training sessions O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Interagency coordination communication — relays operational details to mutual aid teams and dispatch centers using clear, standardized terminology O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Tactical assignment communication — issues precise crew positioning orders at strategic locations to maximize extinguishing effectiveness and rescue operations during active incidents Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Performance feedback delivery — conveys specific, evidence-based evaluations of firefighting personnel performance in post-incident debriefs and formal reviews O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Public safety messaging — communicates fire prevention information and emergency guidance to community members in accessible, audience-appropriate language Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Multi-agency incident command briefing — leads comprehensive situation briefings for command staff, mutual aid units, and media liaisons across extended or complex incidents Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Doctrine and policy communication — authors or revises department standard operating procedures, training materials, and after-action reports that become reference documents across the organization Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
2Leadership10 statements
Emerging
  1. Crew task shadowing — assists senior supervisors in directing firefighter assignments and observes command decision-making during live incidents Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Unit accountability initiation — tracks crew member locations and status at incident scenes under the guidance of an experienced officer O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Working crew leadership — serves as functional leader of an engine or hand crew of three or more firefighters, directing tactical tasks with growing decisiveness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Training drill facilitation — leads department personnel through assigned firefighting and emergency medical skills drills, providing correction and encouragement O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Routine performance management — conducts periodic evaluations of assigned firefighters, identifying development needs and documenting progress O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Incident scene command — takes charge of fire suppression and rescue operations, assigning personnel to strategic positions and adjusting tactics as conditions evolve Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Accountability and discipline — enforces department standards, documents policy violations, and initiates corrective action with consistency and fairness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Crew development planning — designs individualized growth plans for firefighters based on performance evaluations and career progression goals O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Organizational leadership modeling — establishes a command culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement that influences conduct across multiple crews and shifts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Succession development — identifies and deliberately mentors high-potential firefighters for promotion, ensuring leadership continuity within the department Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Self-assessment initiation — reflects on personal performance during post-incident debriefs and identifies specific gaps in tactical knowledge or command presence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning strategy awareness — recognizes which training modalities—live fire drills, tabletop exercises, or ride-alongs—most effectively build personal competency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Incident decision review — examines own command decisions after each incident, comparing chosen tactics against alternative approaches and documented outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Certification gap monitoring — tracks required continuing education, recertification timelines, and personal skill development against departmental and state standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Adaptive command calibration — monitors own cognitive load and stress levels during active incidents and applies deliberate strategies to maintain clear situational awareness and decision quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Reflective after-action integration — systematically incorporates lessons from personal incident command errors into revised mental models and future tactical planning Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Metacognitive mentoring — coaches firefighters and junior officers in structured self-reflection techniques, embedding after-action review culture into daily operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Command philosophy articulation — constructs and communicates an explicit, evidence-based personal leadership framework that guides decision-making across routine and extreme incident environments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking10 statements
Emerging
  1. Building hazard recognition — identifies visible structural risks, fire load indicators, and water supply limitations at incident scenes when prompted by senior officers Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Information source evaluation — distinguishes reliable occupancy pre-plans and dispatch data from incomplete or conflicting field reports during incident approach Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Size-up analysis — assesses fire extent, building condition, exposure risks, and available resources to determine initial crew deployment requirements with increasing independence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Resource allocation reasoning — evaluates trade-offs between committing crews to rescue versus suppression tasks based on life safety priority and available staffing O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Incident escalation judgment — identifies conditions indicating fire behavior change or structural compromise and adjusts tactics before hazards become critical Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Dynamic risk-benefit analysis — continuously evaluates changing fire conditions, crew fatigue, water supply, and building integrity to make real-time offensive-versus-defensive transition decisions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Investigation evidence evaluation — analyzes origin and cause indicators, witness accounts, and burn patterns to form preliminary fire cause determinations for reporting O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Prevention inspection reasoning — synthesizes building code requirements, occupancy data, and observed conditions to prioritize enforcement actions across inspection caseloads O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Complex incident strategic planning — constructs multi-objective incident action plans for large-scale or technically complex emergencies by integrating weather, terrain, structural, and life-safety variables Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Systemic hazard pattern analysis — identifies recurring risk trends across multiple incidents or inspections and proposes evidence-based policy or training interventions to reduce future losses Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration10 statements
Emerging
  1. Crew task integration — coordinates personal firefighting actions with adjacent team members to avoid duplication of effort and maintain crew cohesion at incident scenes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Intershift handoff participation — contributes accurate status updates during crew changeovers to support seamless operational continuity O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Multi-company coordination — synchronizes suppression, rescue, and ventilation operations across two or more companies during moderately complex incidents Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-functional team integration — collaborates with law enforcement, emergency medical services, and utility personnel at joint-response incidents, respecting each agency's role and authority O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Station team cohesion building — fosters cooperative working relationships among firefighters across duty shifts through equitable task distribution and inclusive communication Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Unified command participation — operates effectively within a unified command structure, contributing fire suppression objectives while aligning with law enforcement or hazmat branch goals Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Mutual aid coordination — integrates incoming mutual aid resources into ongoing incident operations, communicating tactical objectives and assigning positions without operational disruption O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Department-wide training collaboration — partners with training officers, company officers, and subject matter experts to design and deliver joint instructional programs O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Regional response network leadership — builds sustained collaborative relationships with neighboring jurisdictions, enabling pre-planned mutual aid agreements and joint training that improve regional surge capacity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Interagency protocol development — co-authors standard operating procedures with partner agencies—EMS, law enforcement, public works—that clarify joint-response roles and improve coordinated outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character10 statements
Emerging
  1. Safety rule adherence — follows department safety protocols, personal protective equipment standards, and chain-of-command expectations consistently during training and routine operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Honest incident reporting — documents incident facts, crew actions, and personal observations accurately without omission or embellishment in required reports Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Accountability under pressure — accepts responsibility for crew outcomes and command decisions at incident scenes rather than deflecting blame to external factors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Equitable treatment demonstration — applies consistent standards in task assignment, discipline, and performance evaluation regardless of personal relationships or crew member background Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Ethical resource stewardship — maintains firefighting apparatus and equipment to operational readiness standards, reporting deficiencies immediately to prevent mission failure O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Professional conduct modeling — demonstrates composure, respect, and procedural integrity in all interactions with crew members, partner agencies, and community members, setting the behavioral standard for the unit Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Courageous safety advocacy — reports near-miss incidents, equipment failures, and unsafe supervisory practices through official channels even when doing so creates organizational friction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Transparent performance evaluation — delivers honest, evidence-based firefighter assessments that serve personnel development over supervisor-subordinate harmony O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical culture stewardship — actively shapes departmental values through policy input, disciplinary consistency, and visible personal integrity that influences conduct across the organization Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Public trust guardianship — represents the fire service in community interactions with honesty and professionalism that builds lasting institutional credibility and public confidence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
7Creativity10 statements
Emerging
  1. Alternative tactic consideration — generates at least one non-standard approach to crew deployment or access when initial tactical options are blocked or unavailable Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Training scenario contribution — proposes realistic drill scenarios based on local hazard profiles that supplement standard curriculum with occupancy-specific challenges Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Improvised resource application — adapts available tools, apparatus, and personnel to accomplish rescue or suppression objectives when standard equipment is unavailable or insufficient Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Novel fire prevention messaging — develops community education materials or outreach programs that reach high-risk populations through non-traditional formats or partnerships O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Tactical problem framing — reframes stalled incident operations by identifying unconventional access points, suppression angles, or resource combinations not covered in standard pre-plans Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Incident action plan innovation — designs operationally effective and situationally tailored incident action plans that go beyond templated responses to address unique structural, environmental, or life-safety conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment adaptation — engineers field modifications to hose lays, tool configurations, or apparatus positioning that improve operational effectiveness in non-standard environments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Training program redesign — restructures existing drill curricula to incorporate emerging tactics, new equipment, or after-action lessons, improving crew readiness beyond minimum certification requirements O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Operational doctrine contribution — authors or champions new tactical approaches that, after validation through testing and peer review, are adopted as departmental or regional standard practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-sector innovation transfer — imports problem-solving methods from adjacent fields—military operations, industrial safety, emergency management—and adapts them to improve fire service outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset10 statements
Emerging
  1. Training engagement — participates actively in all assigned firefighting, medical, and hazmat drills, treating each session as a skill-building opportunity rather than a compliance requirement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Feedback receptivity — accepts corrective input from senior officers and training staff without defensiveness and incorporates suggestions into next-performance attempts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Certification pursuit — proactively pursues advanced firefighting, EMS, or incident command certifications beyond those minimally required for current rank Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Setback recovery — returns to operational readiness following adverse incidents—injuries, tactical failures, line-of-duty losses—by processing experience and reengaging with purpose Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. After-action learning commitment — treats every incident and drill debrief as primary source data for personal and crew skill refinement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Continuous tactical updating — regularly integrates new research, incident investigation findings, and updated NFPA or OSHA standards into personal command practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Crew learning culture cultivation — normalizes error discussion and knowledge-sharing within the crew, framing mistakes as collective learning opportunities rather than individual failures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Cross-training initiative — volunteers for and completes training outside primary assignment—wildland, water rescue, technical rescue—to expand personal and unit capability O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Departmental learning leadership — advocates for and implements systemic after-action review processes, training feedback loops, and near-miss reporting systems that institutionalize continuous improvement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional community engagement — contributes to fire service growth by presenting at conferences, publishing lessons-learned reports, or participating in NFPA technical committees Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness10 statements
Emerging
  1. Situational attention focus — maintains deliberate awareness of crew location, fire progression, and exit routes throughout initial incident assignments without prompting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Pre-incident centering — uses structured breathing or mental review routines before entering hazardous environments to establish intentional focus and reduce reactive decision-making Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Stress signal recognition — identifies personal physiological and cognitive stress responses—tunnel vision, breath-holding, communication breakdown—and applies regulation techniques during live incidents Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Crew welfare monitoring — observes firefighter behavioral cues during prolonged operations and identifies fatigue, distress, or disorientation that require rotation or rehabilitation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Attentive listening in high-noise environments — filters radio traffic and verbal reports at active incident scenes to extract actionable information while maintaining environmental awareness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Composed command presence — maintains emotional regulation and deliberate communication tone during rapidly evolving or high-casualty incidents, preventing panic contagion in the crew Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Intentional decision pacing — resists urgency-driven impulsivity during scene size-up by pausing to gather adequate information before committing crews to high-risk positions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Trauma-informed crew engagement — approaches post-incident crew interactions with present-moment attentiveness and emotional sensitivity following line-of-duty deaths or mass-casualty events Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Organizational mindfulness advocacy — integrates structured mindfulness and stress-management practices into station culture and training programs, reducing critical incident stress and improving decision quality across the unit Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. High-stakes presence modeling — demonstrates sustained situational awareness and emotional composure across extended multi-operational-period incidents, establishing a standard that junior officers observe and emulate Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude10 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical endurance commitment — completes demanding suppression or rescue tasks to required standard even when fatigued, without abandoning assignment prematurely Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Uncertainty tolerance — operates in smoke-obscured, structurally compromised, or rapidly changing environments without allowing uncertainty to produce paralysis Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Sustained incident command — maintains effective command focus and crew direction across extended incident operations spanning multiple hours without performance degradation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Post-setback recommitment — resumes full operational capacity following tactical failures, near-misses, or minor injuries by processing the event and reengaging with mission purpose Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Difficult decision execution — carries through on high-consequence tactical decisions—offensive-to-defensive transitions, emergency evacuation calls—even under crew or command pressure to continue Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Chronic occupational stress management — sustains performance and professional effectiveness across a career marked by cumulative exposure to trauma, loss, and physical risk Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Courageous accountability — initiates difficult personnel actions—formal discipline, fitness-for-duty referrals—when crew safety or department integrity requires it, despite interpersonal costs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. High-risk entry decision ownership — accepts personal responsibility for ordering crew members into dangerous structures when risk-benefit analysis supports entry, and owns the outcome Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Organizational resilience leadership — guides a unit through prolonged operational demands, mass-casualty events, or department crises while maintaining crew cohesion, safety culture, and mission effectiveness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Line-of-duty loss recovery leadership — leads crew through the grief, operational review, and procedural reform process following a firefighter injury or fatality, emerging with stronger safety practices and crew solidarity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Battalion Chief · Captain · Chief · Crew Boss · Crew Chief · Damage Prevention Coordinator · Deputy Fire Marshal · District Fire Management Officer · Division Chief · Engine Boss · Engine Captain · Fire Battalion Chief
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
Active ListeningCritical ThinkingSocial PerceptivenessSpeakingMonitoringCoordinationReading ComprehensionService OrientationJudgment and Decision MakingManagement of Personnel ResourcesComplex Problem SolvingTime ManagementInstructingWritingActive LearningLearning StrategiesPersuasionNegotiationOperations MonitoringSystems Evaluation
Knowledge domains
Public Safety and SecurityCustomer and Personal ServiceEducation and TrainingBuilding and ConstructionAdministration and ManagementEnglish LanguageMechanicalLaw and GovernmentPersonnel and Human ResourcesAdministrativeMedicine and DentistryPsychologyChemistryTransportationMathematics
Abilities
Oral ExpressionProblem SensitivityOral ComprehensionNear VisionDeductive ReasoningInductive ReasoningWritten ComprehensionSpeech ClarityInformation OrderingSpeech Recognition
Work styles
Leadership OrientationStress ToleranceDependabilityCooperationSelf-ControlAdaptability
Technology
Data base user interface and query softwareAnalytical or scientific softwareHelpdesk or call center softwareOffice suite softwareElectronic mail softwareGeographic information systemSpreadsheet softwareProject management softwareMap creation softwarePresentation software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Assign firefighters to jobs at strategic locations to facilitate rescue of persons and maximize application of extinguishing agents.
  2. Provide emergency medical services as required, and perform light to heavy rescue functions at emergencies.
  3. Assess nature and extent of fire, condition of building, danger to adjacent buildings, and water supply status to determine crew or company requirements.
  4. Communicate fire details to superiors, subordinates, or interagency dispatch centers, using two-way radios.
  5. Serve as a working leader of an engine, hand, helicopter, or prescribed fire crew of three or more firefighters.
  6. Instruct and drill fire department personnel in assigned duties, including firefighting, medical care, hazardous materials response, fire prevention, and related subjects.
  7. Maintain fire suppression equipment in good condition, checking equipment periodically to ensure that it is ready for use.
  8. Evaluate the performance of assigned firefighting personnel.
CIP education codes
03.020843.020143.020243.020343.020543.0299

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.