National Wildfire Coordinating Group

Engine Boss, ENGB

Position Category: 
Incident Positions
Position Code: 
ENGB
Functional Area: 
Operations
AD Class: 
AD-F

Duties

  • Identifies tactical capability and limitations of engine.
  • Identifies capability and limitations of assigned personnel.
  • Compares engine attack method alternatives to type of assignment.
  • Applies different types of indirect and direct engine tactics.
  • Knows the capabilities, characteristics, and application techniques of the various fire suppressant agents used, (e.g., wet water, foam, gel, blankets, etc.) in engine operations.
  • Makes specific tactical assignments for engine.
    • Makes assignments based on specific instructions from supervisor.
  • Develops alternatives to primary plan based on the possibility of engine/equipment breakdown or failure.
  • Makes specific assignments to protect structures (residences, barns, garages, outbuildings).
    • Placement of engine, personnel, hose
    • Evaluates and triages structures.
    • Identifies special hazards (propane tanks, power lines, hazardous materials).
    • Structures preparation.
    • Application of chemical agents (foam, gel).
    • Defensible space.
    • Escape/emergency evacuation (cut and run).
    • Refuge/shelter considerations (fire shelter, vehicle, structure).
    • Entrapment avoidance.
    • Water source availability.
  • Checks engine communications systems. Ensure compatibility and operation.
  • Locates water sources and check for volume, cleanliness, and permission from owner to use water source in engine resupply.
  • Sustains water and chemical agent supply for engine assignment.
  • Maintains a supply of water to the fire, particularly on critical areas of the line.
    • Static supply (lakes, hydrants, creeks, folda- tanks, etc.)
    • Mobile supply (water tender shuttle)
    • Obtain engine maintenance schedule and ensure engine is maintained.
  • Coordinates and communicates with various fireline and support personnel required for engine assignment.
  • Identifies and corrects performance deficiencies regarding equipment maintenance, mopup, driving, retardant operations, water source, and supply system.
    • Completes assignment within time frame established by incident action plan.
  • Directs engine operations in accordance with agency/unit standard operating procedures.
  • Attends operational briefings.
  • Receives briefing from supervisor.
  • Develops plan to protect structures.
  • Coordinates and communicates with adjacent forces.
  • Locates and maps water sources.
  • Identifies and corrects performance deficiencies.
  • Ensures engine is maintained.
  • Confirms demobilization instructions with supervisor and brief subordinates.

Position Knowledge and/or Requirements

  • S-230, Crew Boss
  • S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior
  • Qualified as an FFT1
Page Last Modified / Reviewed: 
2018-07-27