Firefighter Type 1 (Squad Boss)

Job Description form NWCG

The Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1) leads a small group (usually not more than seven members) and is responsible for their safety on wildland and prescribed fire incidents. The FFT1 supervises resources at the Firefighter Type 2 (FFT2) level and reports to a Single Resource Crew Boss [Crew Boss (CRWB), Heavy Equipment Boss (HEQB), Engine Boss (ENGB), Felling Boss (FELB), Firing Boss (FIRB), or Helicopter Manager (HMGB)].or other assigned supervisor. The FFT1 works in the Operations functional area. 

The FFT1 performs position duties commensurate with Type 1 incident complexity and characteristics stated in the Interagency Standards for Fire and Fire Aviation Operations (Red Book).

Build the Team

• Assemble and validate readiness of assigned personnel and equipment.

• Establish and communicate chain of command, reporting procedures, risk management processes, and radio frequency management.

• Establish a common operating picture with supervisor and subordinates.

• Brief assigned personnel using IAP and/or NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide (IRPG), PMS 461, briefing checklist.

Supervise and Direct Work Assignments

• Establish and communicate objectives, priorities, work assignments, and performance expectations.

• Identify, analyze, and use relevant situational information to make more informed decisions and take appropriate actions.

• Adjust actions based on changing information and evolving situation awareness. Develop and implement contingency plans. Communicate changing conditions to assigned resources and supervisor.

• Ensure incident objectives and performance standards are met.

• Monitor performance and provide immediate and regular feedback to assigned personnel.

Perform Firefighter Type 1-Specific Duties

• Mentor and train assigned resources in safe firefighting practices (e.g., tool maintenance, fireline construction techniques).

• Adhere to the chain of command as it applies to crew configuration.

• Locate fireline and implement appropriate fireline construction methods (e.g., mineral soil scrape, cup trenching, removal of ladder fuels) necessary to stop fire spread and ensure completion to acceptable standards.

• Utilize appropriate fireline tactics, including indirect and direct attack strategies.

• Verify driver/operator qualifications and ensure adherence to vehicle safety procedures when transporting personnel and equipment.

• Use firing devices under supervision on a firing operation according to the ignition/firing plan (verbal or written).

• Maintain and inspect tools, equipment, and supplies required to complete assigned task for amount, serviceability, and safety. Notify supervisor if corrective action is needed.

Fireline Duties

• Carry IRPG at all times and use it to guide actions.

• Request, direct, and provide feedback to aerial resources through established chain of command.

• Provide status updates on conditions affecting operations, hazardous conditions, unresolved conflicts, air operations, etc., to supervisor.

• Through established chain of command, assist the responsible land management agency and/or assigned Resource Advisor (READ), with the protection of natural, cultural, and other resources. Communicate when such resources are discovered and document suppression impacts.

• Use maps, compass, Global Positioning System (GPS) and other tools and applications to gather information and navigate on incident.

• Collect, document, and report weather observations utilizing the Belt Weather Kit or electronic weather meter.

• Contribute to the planning process by providing accurate information and recommendations through established chain of command.

Perform Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Duties

• Conduct WUI operations according to guidelines stated in IRPG, incident-specific objectives and guidelines, and agency-specific guidance.

Communicate and Coordinate

• Follow established processes and chain of command for collecting, producing, and distributing information.

• Report any changes in fire behavior or hazardous conditions to supervisor.

• Communicate effectively using multichannel radios. Prepare and program radios for assignment. Use plain language and Incident Command System (ICS) terminology.

• Conduct and/or participate in After Action Reviews (AAR).

Manage Risk

• Apply the Risk Management Process as stated in the NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide (IRPG), PMS 461:

  • Identify Hazards.

  • Assess Hazards.

  • Develop Controls and Make Risk Decisions.

  • Implement Controls.

  • Supervise and Evaluate.

• Ensure Lookouts, Communications, Escape Routes, and Safety Zones (LCES) are established and known to all firefighters before they are needed. Refer to guidelines stated in the IRPG.

• Apply the Standard Firefighting Orders and Watch Out Situations to your assignment, as stated in the IRPG.

• Use Look Up, Down and Around in the IRPG to help maintain situational awareness. Adjust actions accordingly.

• Ensure compliance with all safety practices and procedures for assigned personnel.

• Monitor for signs and symptoms of fatigue, illness, or injury. Mitigate appropriately.

• Account for location, health, safety, and welfare of assigned personnel.