FIREFIGHTER SUPERVISOR/EXPERT

Date: Jan 15, 2026

Req ID: 55245

Location:

Fort Smith, AR, US, 72936

Category: DEPT OF THE MILITARY

Anticipated Starting Salary: $57,351.01

Position Number: 22175998
County: Sebastian
Posting End Date: January 25, 2026
Anticipated Starting Salary: $57,351.00
Ebbing

The mission of the Department of Military is to provide a professional staff of Arkansas State Employees who help maintain and improve the readiness of Arkansas National Guard units through effective fiscal management of State Resources, Human Resource Management, and quality administration of Arkansas National Guard Programs.

The Department of the Military is a Drug-Free Workplace, this includes medical marijuana which is still considered a controlled substance under federal law. (Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988)

Position Information

Job Series: Safety and Security – Firefighters

Classification: Firefighter Supervisor / Expert

Class Code: SFI04P

Pay Grade: SGS07

Salary Range: $57,351 – $84,879

Job Summary

The Firefighter Supervisor / Expert is an advanced-level emergency services professional recognized for exceptional proficiency in fire suppression, technical rescue operations, and incident command. Beyond executing routine firefighting tasks, the Firefighter Supervisor / Expert leads complex emergency responses, mentors junior personnel, and contributes to strategic planning and training initiatives. This role demands a combination of advanced technical skills, proven leadership, and a deep understanding of the latest tactical and safety practices to effectively manage high-risk incidents and complex rescue operations.

Primary Responsibilities

The assignment of supervisory duties is determined by the hiring agency's operational needs. Non-supervisory roles will serve as senior technical experts. Respond rapidly to fire alarms, hazardous material incidents, and other emergency situations requiring expert-level intervention. Assess complex incident scenes and develop tactical strategies to mitigate danger, protect lives, and minimize property damage. Assume leadership roles on the scene by coordinating efforts among firefighting teams, other emergency responders, and support personnel. Make critical decisions under extreme pressure and communicate clear directives throughout emergency operations. Utilize advanced firefighting techniques and specialized equipment to control and extinguish fires in challenging environments. Execute high-risk rescue operations, including technical rescues, hazardous materials management, and multi-agency incident coordination. Lead advanced training drills and continuous professional development sessions for new and experienced firefighters. Mentor junior personnel, sharing expert knowledge in fire behavior, rescue techniques, and safety procedures. Oversee the maintenance, inspection, and repair of firefighting apparatus and specialized rescue equipment, ensuring readiness for operation. Enforce and model strict adherence to safety standards to minimize risks during emergency responses. Prepare detailed incident reports, documenting critical decisions, actions taken, and lessons learned for continuous operational improvement. Participate in post-incident debriefings to evaluate performance and incorporate best practices into future responses.

Knowledge and Skills

Mastery of advanced firefighting equipment, rescue tools, and communication systems. Strong interpersonal and communication skills necessary to lead teams and coordinate with multiple agencies in high-pressure environments. Ability to rapidly analyze evolving incident scenes and formulate effective tactical responses. Maintain exceptional physical fitness and mental acuity to perform under stressful and hazardous conditions.

Minimum Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED.

Must have successfully completed a recognized Firefighter Training Academy program and attained advanced firefighting certifications such as Firefighter II or equivalent.

Advanced certifications in leadership or fire officer training, Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Certification, Technical Rescue, and Incident Command System (ICS) training.

Possession of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, First Aid, and Emergency Medical Technician certifications.

Minimum of 6 years of progressive firefighting experience in emergency situations.

Proven track record of sound decision-making and adherence to safety protocols during complex emergency responses.

Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.