Mixmaster

MXMS Incident Position Description

The Mix Master provides oversight and support of the Wildland Fire Chemicals (WFC) mixing and loading operations. The MXMS reports to the Airtanker Base Manager (ATBM), Single Engine Airtanker Manager (SEMG), or Dip Site Manager. The MXMS works in the Air Operations functional area.

Prepare and Mobilize

• Ensure individual readiness.
• Gather critical information pertinent to the assignment.
• Travel to and check in at assignment.
• Review Base Operations Plan and obtain initial briefing from supervisor.

Build the Team

• Identify personnel assigned to the mixing crew and maintain accountability. Confirm that the Base Operations Plan or relevant plan has been reviewed with assigned resources.
• Assemble assigned personnel.
• Establish and communicate: chain of command; reporting procedures; risk management processes.
• Establish a common operating picture with supervisors and subordinates.
• Participate in operational briefings as directed and brief assigned personnel.
• Obtain and distribute relevant directions, plans, and other information.

Supervise and Direct Work Assignments

• Establish and communicate objectives, priorities, work assignments, and performance expectations.
• Identify, analyze, and use relevant situational information to make more informed decisions and take appropriate actions.
• Adjust actions based on changing information and evolving situation awareness. Develop and implement contingency plans. Communicate changing conditions to assigned resources and supervisor.
• Ensure daily operational objectives and performance standards are met.
• Monitor performance and provide immediate and regular feedback to assigned personnel.

Perform Mix Master-Specific Duties

• Obtain daily or more frequent briefings from supervisor.
• Provide leadership and direction to the mixing/loading crew during mixing/loading operations.
• Ensure WFC products are mixed per the Qualified Products List (QPL) and tested prior to being loaded into aircraft.
• Ensure aircraft are loaded per contract specifications.
• Work with supervisor to maintain an adequate WFC products inventory based on current and expected activity.
• Check all equipment such as valves, hoses, pumps, and tanks for operability and ensures agency and OSHA safety measures are in place (e.g., pump shaft guards, fan belt shields, splash guards, wiring integrity, sealed switch boxes, safety signs, and placards, etc.).
• Request personnel and equipment necessary to perform operations safely and efficiently.
• Plan the specific layout of the mix plant.
• Ensure cleanliness of the mix plant.
• Comply with the Lot Acceptance and Quality Assurance (LAQA) program for all WFC products.
• Ensure only approved WFC products are utilized and mixed according to the QPL.
• Utilize refractometer, Marsh Funnel, and mass flow meter to ensure contract compliance.
• Develop a recirculation schedule.
• Report and log pounds and gallons and validate as requested.
• Provide for the safety and welfare of personnel working around the mix plant by using the risk management process.
• Report all hazards and incidents/accidents immediately to supervisor.
• Maintain records of all equipment, replacement parts, catalogs, technical manuals, and Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
• Ensure OSHA regulations for mix plant safety are in place and properly documented in conjunction with supervisor.
• Ensure compliance with state and federal EPA regulations for storage and handling of WFC products, hazardous waste, and wastewater in conjunction with supervisor.

Communicate and Coordinate

• Follow established processes and chain of command for collecting, producing, and distributing information.
• Report any hazardous conditions to supervisor and ensure appropriate action is taken.
• Participate in After Action Reviews (AAR).

Manage Risk

• Consider your skill level and limitations and work within them.
• Apply the Risk Management Process as stated in the NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide (IRPG), PMS 461.
• Report all accidents or injuries to supervisor.
• Ensure compliance with all safety practices and procedures for yourself and those around you.

Document

• Complete as required:
  • SAFECOM
  • SAFENET
• Agency-specific forms
  • Crew Time Report (CTR), SF-261 (Watch: How to correctly fill out a CTR)
  • Incident Time Report, OF-288 (Watch: How to Correctly fill out an Incident Time Report)
• Ensure Incident Personnel Performance Rating, (ICS 225 WF) (NFES 001576) for all airtanker base support personnel (qualified or trainee) on assignment are completed and sent to home unit.

Demobilize

• Follow demobilization instructions from supervisor.
• Ensure incident and agency demobilization procedures and work/rest standards are followed.

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