0081 - Fire Protection and Prevention Series

Federal Occupation Description

Federal Occupation Description

This series covers positions that supervise or perform work to control and extinguish fires, rescue persons endangered by fire, and reduce or eliminate potential fire hazards. It also covers fire service positions that control hazardous materials incidents; train personnel in fire protection and prevention; operate fire communications equipment; develop and implement fire protection and prevention plans, procedures, and standards; and advise on improvements to structures for better fire prevention. Positions in this series require knowledge of firefighting and fire prevention theory and techniques, a knowledge of fixed and mobile firefighting equipment operation; and/or the ability to plan, direct, or carry out fire protection and prevention programs and operations.

For job opportunities in this series, go to the Office of Personnel Management USAJOBS website.

Other Federal Occupations

It is not uncommon for individuals in one federal occupational series to perform duties related to another series within the same federal occupational group. To find out about the certifications for another series in the MISCELLANEOUS OCCUPATIONS GROUP (NOT ELSEWHERE CLASSIFIED), click on that series below. Note that credentials have not yet been identified for all series – links are provided only to those series for which the identification of credentials has been completed. Additional series will be added over time.

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This is an official U.S. Navy websiteUpdated: October 16, 2019
Click here to go to Certified Hazardous Material Manager (CHMM) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 5 years

The Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM), Certified Hazardous Material Manager (CHMM) is an intermediate-level credential for professionals who manage hazardous material programs and projects. CHMMs are expected to have knowledge and experience of hazardous materials identification and handling in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, planning and preparing for and responding to hazmat emergencies and incidents, sampling and analysis (of air, water, soil, waste) for potential contaminants, and site investigation and remediation. Candidates for the CHMM are required to hold a baccalaureate degree (or higher) from an accredited college or university preferably with a major in hazardous materials management or a related field and have a minimum of four years of relevant experience in the field of hazardous materials management or a related field. Candidates must pass a written examination.

Click here to go to Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT), Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) provide out of hospital emergency medical care and transportation for critical and emergent patients who access the emergency medical services (EMS) system. EMTs have the basic knowledge and skills necessary to stabilize and safely transport patients ranging from non-emergency and routine medical transports to life threatening emergencies. Emergency Medical Technicians function as part of a comprehensive EMS response system, under medical oversight. Emergency Medical Technicians perform interventions with the basic equipment typically found on an ambulance. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age, have successfully completed a state-approved EMT course that meets or exceeds the National Emergency Medical Services Education Standards for the Emergency Medical Technician, have a current CPR-BLS for Healthcare Providers or equivalent credential, and pass both a state-approved EMT psychomotor exam and the EMT cognitive exam.

Click here to go to National Registered Paramedic (NRP) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

The National Registered Paramedic is an allied health professional whose primary focus is to provide advanced emergency medical care for critical and emergent patients who access the emergency medical system. This individual possesses the complex knowledge and skills necessary to provide patient care and transportation. Paramedics function as part of a comprehensive EMS response, under medical oversight. Paramedics perform interventions with the basic and advanced equipment typically found on an ambulance. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age, have current National Certification at the EMT level or a current state license at the EMT level or higher, have successfully completed state-approved and CAAHEP-accredited Paramedic program, have a current CPR-BLS for Healthcare Providers or equivalent credential, complete a psychomotor competency portfolio, and successfully complete both the NREMT Paramedic psychomotor exam and the Paramedic cognitive exam.

Click here to go to Spray-Applied Fireproofing Special Inspector - 86 COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS) is an entry-level certification. Professionals in this field include risk managers, loss control specialists, fire officers, fire marshals, fire inspectors, safety managers, fire protection consultants, designers, code enforcers, loss prevention professionals, building code officials, commercial real estate managers and others who have responsibilities dealing with the application of fire safety, fire protection, prevention, and suppression technologies. Candidates must meet education and/or experience requirements and pass an examination.

Click here to go to Certified Fire Inspector I (CFI) COOL Snapshot page.

Certified Fire Inspector I (CFI). The CFI program is an established process for identifying and recognizing a fire investigator's expertise. Certification is based on successful passage of a written exam and demonstration of the application of the skills and knowledge used on the job through actual field inspections. Upon completion of the exam, candidates have six months to complete verified documentation of inspection activity. The certification is awarded after completing the practicum phase. Once attained, this credential must be renewed every three years through a combination of training and experience.

Click here to go to Certified Fire Plan Examiner (CFPE) COOL Snapshot page.

The goal of the Certified Fire Plan Examiner I (CFPE) credential is to enhance professionalism within the fire plan examiner community. Candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Candidates must pass a four-hour, open-book, 100-question, written examination. The examination is designed to evaluate the candidate's plan examination principles, knowledge, and code application skills at the level of Fire Plan Examiner (as defined in NFPA 1031). In addition to the written exam, candidates must conduct and document five fire plan reviews and two site plan reviews which will be verifed and evaluated prior to awarding the credential. Once earned, this credential must be renewed every three years through a combination of training and experience.

Click here to go to Certified Building Plans Examiner I (CBPE) COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Certified Fire Inspector II (CFI-II) COOL Snapshot page.

Certified Fire Inspector II (CFI-II). The CFI program is an established process for identifying and recognizing a fire investigator's expertise. Candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and NFPA certification as Fire Inspector I. Candidates must pass a four-hour, open book, 100-question, multiple-choice written examination. The examination is designed to evaluate the applicant's knowledge of fire inspection principles and code, and application skills at the level of Fire Inspector II (as defined in NFPA 1031). During the written examination, candidates will be expected to interpret and apply code-related material in response to the test questions. Upon successful completion of the written exam, candidates are required to conduct and document three comprehensive inspections for review by the candidate's supervisor or mentor and the NFPA. Once earned, this credential must be renewed every three years, through a combination of training and experience.

Click here to go to Fire Inspector I - 66 COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The International Code Council (ICC) Fire Inspector I certification validates an individual's technical knowledge, education and related experience as an inspector. The certification holder demonstrates the ability to inspect buildings to make sure all federal, state, and local fire codes are being met, and to address emergency exits, alarms, sprinkler systems and safety precautions. Additional competencies include determining occupancy amount within a building and identifying violations. Certified individuals have knowledge of building codes and an understanding of the general provisions for fire safety, including occupancy and handling of regulated materials. Certified Fire Inspectors will also have knowledge of appropriate processes as it applies to general code compliance when conducting a fire inspection. Successful candidates for the Fire Inspector I certification must provide a signed affidavit and documentation of completion of a training course compliant with NFPA 472 HazMat Awareness. Candidates are required to pass a multiple-choice written exam with at least a 75%.

Click here to go to Fire Inspector II - 67 COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The International Code Council (ICC) Fire Inspector II is a certification for experienced fire inspectors that validates an individual's technical knowledge, education and related experience as an inspector. The certification holder demonstrates the ability to inspect buildings to make sure all federal, state, and local fire codes are being met, and to address emergency exits, alarms, sprinkler systems and safety precautions. Additional competencies include determining occupancy amount within a building and identifying violations. Certified individuals have knowledge of building codes and an understanding of the general provisions for fire safety, including occupancy and the handling of regulated materials. Certified Fire Inspectors will also have knowledge of appropriate processes as it applies to general code compliance when conducting a fire inspection. There are no experience or education requirements for this certification, however individuals seeking the Fire Inspector II certification must have the Fire Inspector I certification prior to taking the written exam. Candidates are required to pass a multiple-choice written exam with at least a 75%.

Click here to go to Incident Safety Officer - Fire Suppression (ISO) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 5 years

The Incident Safety Officer - Fire Suppression (ISO) is a mid-level certification. Applicants applying for this certification must be a member of the Fire Department Safety Officers Association, applicants sponsored by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) and individuals meeting the duties and requirements of a company officer or an Incident Scene Safety Officer. Applicants shall meet the requirements of NFPA 1521 - 2015 ed. Chapter 5 and be a member of a fire department an Emergency Services Organization with at least five years of experience.

Click here to go to Certified Hyperbaric Technologist (CHT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

The Certified Hyperbaric Technologist (CHT) is a mid-level credential. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is the medical procedure of introducing large amounts of oxygen, under extreme atmospheric pressure, into the bloodstream of those afflicted with a variety of medical conditions. Certified hyperbaric technologists, or technicians, may undergo training at a number of medical institutions. Eligibility for the CHT includes completion of an approved NBDHMT introductory course and other experiential requirements.

Click here to go to Diving Medical Technician (DMT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

National Board of Diving and Hyperbaric Medical Technology, Diving Medical Technician (DMT). This mid-level certification. DMT focuses on recognition, stabilization and treatment of decompression and other diving-related injuries. These topics represent core items, as does the necessary invasive skills that permit optimal medical management. Additional course content includes decompression procedures, chamber operations, and marine life injuries. Region-specific topics such as cold water diving and tropical diving issues, altitude diving, represent optional material. An individual wishing to certify as a DMT through the NBDHMT approval process must complete a diver medic training course taught by an NBDHMT approved instructor and/ or facility.

Click here to go to Certified Hazard Control Manager (CHCM) (Associate, Senior and Master Levels) COOL Snapshot page.

The CHCM (Certified Hazard Control Manager) applies managerial techniques to eliminate or control unsafe and unhealthy conditions. It also deals with behaviors and other factors detrimental to people and property. The philosophy behind the CHCM is that safety and health administrators must understand and apply management principles in order to effectively manage hazard control programs. The CHCM is available at three levels: Associate, Senior and Master. A minimum of three years of experience is required at the Associate level.

Click here to go to Health and Safety Officer (HSO) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 5 years

The Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) Health and Safety Officer (HSO) is an entry-level certification designed for individuals sponsored by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) or an Emergency Service Organization and individuals meeting the administrative duties and requirements of a Health and Safety Officer. Candidates must meet the NFPA current standards and supply confirmation from the fire department's chief that they meet the standards.

Click here to go to SARTECH II COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

SARTECH II level of certification is the intermediate level for SAR personnel. This level is recommended for any person who functions on SAR missions as field searchers. The NASAR course that prepares the candidate to challenge the SARTECH II is Fundamentals of Search and Rescue (FUNSAR). Candidates are encouraged to always use the latest version of the FUNSAR text since it is updated regularly. There are no prerequisites required for a person to challenge the SARTECH II examination. The SARTECH II examination consists of written exam and a practical exam.

Click here to go to SARTECH I / Crewleader COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

SARTECH I /Crewleader is a mid-level certification and the advanced level for SAR personnel. The level is recommended only for persons who function on SAR missions as field searchers and who may function as Crew Leader. Persons who obtain this certification are to function within the limits of the certification described in the NASAR Certification Criteria for SARTECH I/CREWLEADER. The NASAR course that prepares one to challenge the SARTECH I/CREWLEADER examination is Advanced Search and Rescue.

Click here to go to SARTECH III COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

SARTECH III level of certification is the beginning level for SAR personnel. This level is recommended for any person who responds to and functions on SAR missions. Persons who obtain this certification are to function within the limits of the certification described in the NASAR standards for SARTECH III. The NASAR course that teaches the knowledge to challenge the SARTECH III is Introduction to Search and Rescue (ISAR). Candidates must pass a series of written and practical examinations that test the levels of knowledge and practical skills of SAR personnel.

Click here to go to Certified Hazardous Materials Practitioner (CHMP) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 5 years

As a Certified Hazardous Materials Practitioner (CHMP) your job encompasses more than just environmental protection, waste management, dangerous goods transportation, safety, or materials handling. Candidates must have at least 5 years of relevant experience with responsibilities directly related to the handling of hazardous materials and/or waste in the workplace; or, an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree from an accredited college or university in hazardous materials management, environmental science, environmental management, or environmental technology, plus 3 years of relevant experience as described above. Candidates must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Fire Plans Examiner - F3 COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Certified Fire Marshal - FM COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The International Code Council (ICC), Certified Fire Marshal - FM is an advanced-level credential intended for professional fire prevention and fire control experts. Certified Fire Marshals are responsible for developing, administrating, interpreting, applying, and enforcing fire codes. Fire Marshals understand human resources laws and regulations, stakeholder relationships, and effectively communicate with contractors, homeowners, subordinates, superiors, news media, elected officials, and civic organizations. Candidates for the Certified Fire Marshal are required to take and pass the ICC Management Module exam, the ICC Legal Module exam, and the ICC Fire Codes and Standards exam. There are no experience or education requirements that must be met prior to taking the exams; however, individuals seeking the Fire Marshal certification should have technical knowledge and related experience in their chosen field of expertise.

Click here to go to Certified Portable Fire Extinguisher Technician - FE COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The International Code Council (ICC), Certified Portable Fire Extinguisher Technician - FE is an entry-level credential for individuals responsible for performing inspection, testing, and maintenance on portable fire extinguishers. Candidates for the Portable Fire Extinguisher Technician credential must understand standard practices and guidelines for servicing fire extinguishers. Additionally, candidates must demonstrate a thorough understanding of and the ability to apply codes, regulations, manufacturer requirements, and standards regarding fire extinguishers. The Portable Fire Extinguisher Technician exam tests a technician’s knowledge of hazards inherent in different occupancies and his or her familiarity with standard industry safety practices.

Click here to go to Pre-engineered Kitchen Fire Extinguishing System Technician - FK COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Pre-engineered Industrial Fire Extinguishing System Technician - FN COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Certified Healthcare Emergency Professional (CHEP) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 1 year

The International Board for Certification of Safety Managers (IBFCSM), Certified Healthcare Emergency Professional (CHEP) certification is for individuals that work in or support healthcare emergency and disaster efforts. Candidates for the CHEP include emergency directors, safety managers, facility management personnel, nurses, administrative leaders, and other healthcare personnel work and supporting real world issues within the healthcare and public sectors. Candidates can qualify for the CHEP certification on a professional or an associate level. Professional level candidates must have eight (8) years of education and experience combined with at least three (3) years of relevant experience; or the candidate must hold a Bachelor's or Graduate degree in a safety or related discipline and provide documentation for at least two (2) years of relevant experience. Associate level candidates must document four years of education and experience combined with at least one year of relevant experience. Candidates are required to take and pass a written examination.

Click here to go to Critical Care Paramedic Certification (CCP-C) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Certified Critical Care Paramedic (CCP-C) is an advanced level certification recommended for medical professionals who possess a broad expanse of knowledge in emergency and critical care medicine including physiology, pathophysiology, and treatment modalities. The CCP-C provides patient care in the pre-hospital, inter-hospital, and hospital environment at a level of care above the traditional paramedic level as defined by the DOT. CCP-Cs are expected to possess the following skills: advanced airway management with pharmacological agents, mechanical ventilator management, invasive hemodynamic monitoring, initiation and/or titration of multiple intravenous infusions, balloon pump or ventricular assist device management, initiating blood products, invasive procedures skills (e.g. chest tube and central line placement), evaluation of laboratory and radiologic studies. The candidate is expected to hold a current unrestricted paramedic license and maintain a significant knowledge of current ACLS, PALS, NALS, and ITLS/PHTLS standards.

Click here to go to Flight Paramedic Certification (FP-C) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Flight Paramedic-Certified (FP-C) credential is an advanced level certification focused on the knowledge level of accomplished, experienced paramedics currently associated with a Flight and /or Critical Care Transport Team(s). The candidate is expected to maintain a significant knowledge of current ACLS, PALS, NRP, and ITLS/PHTLS standards. Candidates must have a current paramedic license and are recommended to have 3-4 years of experience in a critical care, air transport, community or tactical environment. Candidates must pass a 135-question written examination.

Click here to go to Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

The Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) provides basic and limited advanced emergency medical care and transportation for critical and emergent patients who access the emergency medical system. AEMTs possess basic knowledge and skills necessary to provide patient care and transportation and function as part of a comprehensive EMS response, under medical oversight. AEMTs perform interventions with the basic and advanced equipment typically found on an ambulance. Candidates must be 18 years of age or older, possess current National Certification at the EMT level or a current state license at the EMT level or higher, have completed a state-approved AEMT course, have a current CPR-BLS for Healthcare Providers or equivalent credential, and pass both the National Registry Advanced Emergency Medical Technician psychomotor exam and the Advanced EMT Cognitive Exam.

Click here to go to Vascular Access Board Certified COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Vascular Access Certification Corporation (VACC), Vascular Access-Board Certification (VA-BC) is a mid-career level certification designed for clinical professionals to include but not limited to; MD's, PA's, NP's, RN's, LPN/LVN's, RT's, RRT's, Infection Control, Educators, EMS professionals, that actively work in the field of vascular access. Candidates must have thorough knowledge and skills required for competent practice in vascular access. Knowledge can be obtained through work experiences and independent learning, as well as through formal educational programs. Candidates must take and pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Residential Fire Sprinkler Inspector/Plans Examiner - RF COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Certified Hazard Control Manager-Security (CHCM-SEC) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 1 year

The International Board for Certification of Safety Managers (IBFCSM), Certified Hazard Control Manager - Security (CHCM-SEC) certification focuses on the importance of using leadership and management principles to control hazards, prevent accidents, and improve organizational performance. The CHCM-SEC certification is for candidates that work in private security positions with safety and hazard control responsibilities. Candidates can qualify for the CHCM-SEC certification on a professional or an associate level. Professional level candidates must have eight (8) years of education and experience combined with at least three (3) years of relevant experience; or the candidate must hold a Bachelor's or Graduate degree in a safety or related discipline and provide documentation for at least two (2) years of relevant experience. Associate level candidates must document four years of education and experience combined with at least one year of relevant experience. Candidates are required to take and pass a written examination.

Click here to go to Fire Codes and Standards - FC COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Commercial Fire Alarm Inspector - CA COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Commercial Fire Alarm Plans Examiner I - CN COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Commercial Fire Alarm Plans Examiner II - CR COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Commercial Fire Sprinkler Inspector - CF COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Commercial Fire Sprinkler Plans Examiner - CP COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Community Paramedic Certification (CP-C) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The International Board of Specialty Certification (IBSC), Community Paramedic Certification (CP-C) is for experienced paramedics who provide services beyond traditional emergency care and transport. Community paramedics care for patients at home or in other non-urgent settings outside of a hospital under the supervision of a physician or advanced practice provider. To earn the CP-C, candidates must hold an unrestricted license or certificate to practice as a paramedic and pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Tactical Paramedic Certification (TP-C) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

International Board of Specialty Certification (IBSC), Tactical Paramedic Certification (TP-C) is for paramedic professionals currently providing critical care in the austere and care-under-fire environments. TP-C candidates should have knowledge in casualty assessment, stabilization, and evacuation in hostile and austere environments and thorough familiarity with tactical principles, triage, and operational medicine. Candidates should also have knowledge of the Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care and the Committee for Tactical Emergency Casualty Care guidelines, management of the full tactical injury spectrum (from less-than-lethal to chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive (CBRNE)), force health protection, and medico-legal aspects of Tactical Emergency Medical Services. To earn the TP-C, candidates must hold an unrestricted paramedic license in the state or country of practice and pass a written exam.

In Demand

This certification is considered in demand

GI Bill®

Reimbursement for exam fees has been approved for payment through the GI Bill. Click for external link to GI Bill licensing and certification information.

Note: GI Bill approval data is updated quarterly. For the latest information, visit the WEAMS Licenses/Certifications Search page. Make sure to select "Both" in the LAC Category Type drop-down before searching.

Click here to go to the GI Bill site.

ANSI

This credential has been accredited by ANSI. Click for external link to the ANSI web site.

ICAC

This credential has been accredited by ICAC. Click for external link to the ICAC web site.

NCCA

This credentialing program has been accredited by NCCA. Click for external link to the NCCA web site.

ABSNC

This credential has been accredited by ABSNC. Click for external link to the ABSNC web site.

IAS

This credential has been accredited by IAS. Click for external link to the IAS web site.

Some

Credential is related to some tasks associated with the duties of the rating (at least one critical task but less than 80%)

Most

Credential is directly related to most of the major duties associated with the rating (at least 80%)

Other

Credential is related to this military occupation, but is more advanced or specialized and therefore will likely require additional education, training, or experience

Most – Tasks in these careers match most duties of the military job or specialty (approximately 80% or greater)
Some – Tasks in these careers match some duties of the military job or specialty (greater than 20% but less than 80%)
Bright Outlook – new job opportunities are very likely in the future for this job
Registered Apprenticeship
Click here for the external link to: My Next Move for Veterans - Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics
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Click here for the external link to: My Next Move for Veterans - Fire Inspectors
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Click here for the external link to: My Next Move for Veterans - Fire Investigators
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Click here for the external link to: My Next Move for Veterans - Forest Fire Fighting and Prevention Supervisors
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Click here for the external link to: My Next Move for Veterans - Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists
Click here for the external link to: My Next Move salary info for Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists
Click here for the external link to: My Next Move for Veterans - Forest Firefighters
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Click here for the external link to: My Next Move for Veterans - Hazardous Materials Removal Workers
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Click here for the external link to: My Next Move for Veterans - Municipal Fire Fighting and Prevention Supervisors
Click here for the external link to: My Next Move salary info for Municipal Fire Fighting and Prevention Supervisors
Click here for the external link to: My Next Move for Veterans - Municipal Firefighters
Click here for the external link to: My Next Move salary info for Municipal Firefighters