USAR Canine Coordinator (Part Time)

SALARY RANGE: $35.75/hourly

Works under the general direction of the assigned manager or Chief in the Fire Services Division to plan, develop, and oversee short- and long-term training programs for US&R canine teams. Ensures compliance with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) certification and operational standards. Evaluates canine teams and monitors adherence to established performance standards. Coordinates and maintains training documentation, records, and reporting systems. Sustains and manages multiple rosters consisting of certified live-find canine teams. Maintains operational readiness status and certification compliance for all canine teams. Supports deployment decision-making processes and deployment preparation activities. Assists with Mobilization Exercises (MOBEX) and other operational readiness events. Ensures compliance with FEMA reporting, documentation, and operational requirements. Develops and manages the canine program budget and related expenditures. Oversees canine care activities, including veterinary services, feeding schedules, and health monitoring. Manages the procurement, inventory, and maintenance of canine equipment and supplies. Maintains FEMA-compliant records and documentation for all canine program assets. Coordinates training events, evaluations, and sanctioned instructional courses. Supports instructors, evaluators, mentors, and other program personnel during training and operational activities. Travels to and attends various meetings, conferences, and work sites across the City Participates in interagency coordination meetings, FEMA conference calls, and collaborative planning efforts. Documents program performance metrics, operational activities, and annual accomplishments.

OTHER FUNCTIONS:

Performs other functions (essential or otherwise) which may be assigned.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS:  

Requires the ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing, with management, staff, and the public. Requires the ability to climb, crawl, lift, and work on uneven terrain and collapsed structures. Requires the ability to operate an automobile.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:  

Work is performed in a high-risk, physically demanding environments including disaster simulations and real-world deployments. Requires extended hours, nights, weekends, and emergency deployments. Exposure to extreme weather, hazardous materials, dust, and debris. Frequent travel for training, exercises, and conferences.

Bachelor’s degree in Emergency Management, Public Safety, Animal Science, or a related field and five (5) years’ experience in Urban Search and Rescue (US&R), emergency management, fire service operations, or canine handling with three (3) of the five (5) years in a supervisory capacity; or any combination which enables one to perform the essential job functions. Must possess the FEMA Canine Search Specialist and FEMA Canine Search Specialist Instructor certifications. Must possess a valid Tennessee driver’s license.