In this addition of What is the Fire Service, I’ll share with you the different ranks that are typically represented in the fire agencies in our region. While there are many ranks and positions that are essential to a well-functioning agency, and agencies will fill positions based on their specific needs, the following are common operational positions.

The Fire Chief is the highest-ranking officer and the leader of the department. This role is responsible for the overall management, administration, and strategic direction of the fire department. The Fire Chief sets policies, manages the budget, oversees personnel, and often acts as the department’s primary public representative. In large emergencies, the Fire Chief may aassume overall command, though they often delegate tactical control.

The Operations Chief typically reports directly to the Fire Chief and is in charge of the department’s emergency response. This includes overseeing fire suppression activities, rescue operations, and emergency medical services (EMS). They are responsible for staffing, training, and deployment of field personnel, ensuring operational readiness, and implementing the standard operating procedures (SOPs) that guide emergencies and day-to-day operations.

The Battalion Chief (BC) is assigned to, and commands, a particular shift (aka “battalion”). The BC is often the highest-ranking officer on the scene and assumes the role of Incident Commander (IC). They are responsible for making strategic decisions, deploying resources, and ensuring the safety of all personnel operating at the incident. They manage multiple companies (engines, trucks, ambulances) and are also responsible for supervising Company Officers within their battalion.

The Fire Captain is a Company Officer and the direct supervisor of a specific fire company (i.e., Engine Company). They are responsible for the daily activities of their crew, including training and performance. On an emergency scene, the Captain operates at a tactical level, directing and assigning crews (Apparatus Engineer and Firefighters) in carrying out specific tasks, like stretching a hoseline or performing a search.

The Apparatus Engineer (often called a Driver/Operator) is responsible for operating the fire apparatus. In addition to driving, their role involves operation of the vehicle’s pump to ensuring correct water pressure and flow are delivered to the hoselines for effective fire attack. They may also engage in tactical/suppression assignments on an incident and they are responsible for daily checks and maintenance on the apparatus and equipment to ensure it is always response ready.

The Firefighter is the most numerous and fundamental role within the department. They directly carry out the emergency response tasks as identified by the Incident Commander. Their duties include fire suppression using various tools and techniques, performing search and rescue operations, and operating specialized equipment for tasks like vehicle extrication. They work in teams, ensuring safety and efficiency on the fireground.

And just as an FYI, in our region, all the positions mentioned above maintain an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) credential, and nearly all maintain a Paramedic credential. While this credential is not necessary for suppression, it is critical for the operational success of our fire departments.

There are many other ranks and roles in the fire service, but this is a sneak peek into a few that are common among your regional fire agencies.