Instructors - Contractor - Professional Development Training Branch

The Department of Fire Services, through the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy (MFA), provides training for firefighters from local fire departments at our Stow, Springfield and Bridgewater facilities, as well as regionally throughout the Commonwealth. The Massachusetts Firefighting Academy delivers nearly 1,000 courses to approximately 14,000 students each year.  

The Department of Fire Services is currently looking to expand our instructor pool to accommodate the needs of the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy.  Subject areas we are looking to expand are:

• Fire Officer
• Fire Prevention
• Fire Investigation
• Community Risk Reduction

In order to be considered for this position, at time of application, please upload a cover letter stating which program area(s) you are interested in instructing; detailed resume demonstrating your experience; proof of Firefighter I/II and Fire Instructor I certifications as well as any other applicable certifications for the group you are interested in instructing; proof of the highest degree obtained above high school if applicable.

Opportunities to teach in other programs may be available based on the needs of the Academy.

The ideal candidate will be able to work two to three days per week in any program area and be willing to travel to deliver programs across the Commonwealth.   This is a part-time contract position with no benefits.

Instructor I duties include:

• Completes mandatory Commonwealth employee on-line training by required deadlines.
• Works under the direction of a lead instructor.
• Prepares and reviews lesson plans and course curriculum
• Delivers instruction from a prepared lesson plan.
• Sets up audio/visual equipment and classroom 
• Conducts demonstrations as called for in the lesson plan.
• Observes student skills development and evaluates skills when applicable
• Coaches students when necessary.
• Completes all paperwork that is required.
• Evaluates/grades specific skills including subjective evaluations.

 Minimum Qualifications: 

1.  A minimum of five years of relevant fire service experience such as a firefighter, fire/EMS, fire officer, fire investigator, or fire prevention position with a fire department.

2.  Must be an active or retired member of the fire service.  

3.  Must be a Massachusetts and/or certified Firefighter I/II with the National Professional Qualification Board or the International Fire Service Accreditation Council.

4.  Must be a Massachusetts or certified Fire Instructor I with the National Professional Qualification Board, the International Fire Service Accreditation Council, or Department of Defense.

5.  Must successfully complete a Massachusetts Firefighting Academy instructor methodology course.  A teaching certificate or certificate of completion from another instructor methodology program may be accepted in lieu of the instructor methodology course pending review of curriculum.

6.  Must have superior communication skills

7.  Must have the ability to work under direct supervision

8.  Must be a good listener. 

Fire Officer Instructor Preferred Qualifications

• Fire Officer of a Fire Department 
• Trained or certified to Fire Officer 1

Fire Prevention Instructor Preferred Qualifications

• Credentialed to Fire Prevention Officer – Level 1 or Inspector 1 Certified
• Thorough understanding of the Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code and the Massachusetts State Building Code
• Familiar with the various associated NFPA codes and standards associated with the Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code
• Familiar with the various sections of the International Building Code and the Massachusetts State Building Code

Fire Investigation Instructor Preferred Qualifications

• Completed the MFA Fire Investigator 1 Training Program or Certified as a Massachusetts Fire Investigator

• Familiar with the various associated NFPA codes and standards associated with Fire Investigation including but not limited to 921 and 1033

Community Risk Reduction Instructor Preferred Qualification

• Minimum of one year in role as Fire and Life Safety Educator

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.  Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law.  Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements.  We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.