This page shall serve as the official SOP for Field Training Officer Expectations:

Last Updated:  05/22/2023
By:   Kidd B.

- Purpose

The SAFD Field Training Officer (FTO) Program is a group of selected individuals chosen to assist with interviews, orientations, basic knowledge of the department, and on the job training for a new recruit. FTOs are also the rank of Specialist and serve as the department's subject matter experts and Training Officers for the Special Operations Division.

Training is the single most important element for a safe, professional, and effective fire department. It is imperative that all members are properly trained on all aspects of firefighting to help safeguard his/her life, the lives of other firefighters and the lives of those we serve. In order for the SAFD to achieve this, it is imperative that we have highly qualified, highly motivated people the role of Field Training Officer.

- F.T.O Requirements

• FTOs must meet the requirements in the SAFD Rank document/SOP

• Must not have any active disciplinary action or behavioral concerns 

• Be knowledgeable of policies, procedures, and SOPs and reasonably apply them

• Must be a regularly active member and put in significant hours

• Show a drive to help others, and go above and beyond

• Show interest and be approved by Command Staff

• FTO candidate shows activity in their contribution to recruitment and hiring

  • Posting Job Ads in-city (when approved by Command Staff)

  • Interfacing with the public and representing SAFD in a positive manner

  • Participating in training 

  • Mentoring new firefighters

- F.T.O Certification Process

INTERVIEWS:

• 1. Observe (sit in on) current FTO conducting at least TWO interviews

  2. Lead ONE interview with a current FTO present as an observer

     • A mock interview can be used if necessary
       
       

EVALUATIONS:

1. Assist current FTO in at least TWO FF1 or FF2 evaluation processes

2. Lead ONE FF1 or FF2 evaluation processes with current FTO as an observer

TRAINING SESSIONS:

1. Lead TWO  ride-along sessions for a firefighter current FTO as an observer

2. Organize and lead ONE SAFD Company Drill

SOP REVIEW:

1. Coordinate THREE review sessions with current FTOs or Command Staff and review Department SOPs

   • Minimum of THREE hours of SOP review