Riverside County Fire Department
Volunteer Reserve Photographer
This is an Unpaid Volunteer Position

Description Created: April 2012

PURPOSE AND DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:
Volunteer Reserve Photographer’s assist the Riverside County Fire Department in a variety of photographic
situations including department events and emergencies. Teamwork, personal investment, and self-sacrifice are
the basis of the social framework of a Volunteer Reserve Photographer. Volunteer Reserve Photographer’s will
also provide a variety of community services as directed by department staff.

In addition, Volunteer Reserve Photographer’s may be required to perform other duties as assigned.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:
The examples of functions listed in this class specification are representative but not necessarily exhaustive or
descriptive of any one position in the class. Management is not precluded from assigning other related functions
not listed herein if such functions are a logical assignment for the position. Reasonable accommodation may be
made to enable an individual with a qualified disability to perform the essential functions of a job, on a case-bycase
basis.

Essential Functions:
Under supervision, assist department staff in photographing incidents, events or training. Volunteer Reserve
Photographers will use their own equipment during the course of duty within the department. May monitor or
operate two way radio’s at incidents or events. Volunteer Reserve Photographers shall remain out of hazardous
atmosphere areas and make every effort to avoid interfering at the scene of an incident.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Each Volunteer Reserve Photographer brings a unique combination of experience, knowledge, skills and abilities
to the team. Knowledge, skills and abilities that are particularly applicable to this type of assignment include:

Extensive knowledge and skills in digital and/or 35mm photography

Must have the ability to work under the stress of emergency situations

Must have the ability to read, learn, and remember changes in policy or procedures.

Must have the ability to apply information in a logical manner; maintain composure, confront stressful situations,
and withstand the effects of repeated exposure to traumatic situations.

Must have the ability to take and follow orders from supervisors.

Must have the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with community personnel, other
fire agencies, outside agencies, and the general public.

Must have the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with community personnel, other
fire agencies, outside agencies, and the general public.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:
Volunteer Reserve Photographers must possess the physical, mental, and emotional ability to successfully
perform the essential and often stressful duties of such an assignment. The mental/physical characteristics
described here are representative of those that must be met:

Frequently stand, walk or sit for extended timeframes.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Must be a high school graduate or have passed the GED Requirements at time of appointment.

Be able to read and write English at a level required for successful job performance.

Be at least 18 years of age.

Able to follow oral and written direction, exercise good judgment, work safely independently and with others,
respond quickly to oral commands or signals during emergency situations.

May be required to complete any standard training requirements as approved by the department before being
allowed to participate in department incidents.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
Volunteer Reserve Pnotographers may be called upon to respond and work in all types of weather and less than
ideal conditions. They may be assigned to remote areas. They may be asked to endure extended shifts,
sometimes on weekends and holidays. Volunteer Reserve Photographers may be exposed to emotional hazards
associated with firefighting, emergency medical response and rescue.

Desirable Traits:
Communicate effectively, knowledgeable worker, customer focused, values and respects others, drives to excel,
teamwork and collaboration, continuous learning, demonstrates ethical behavior and supportive to change. Ability
to work in a high stress fast paced environment while maintaining professionalism and composure.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Riverside County Volunteer Reserve Photographers must have a reputation for honesty and trustworthiness.
Successful completion of a background investigation conducted by the County of Riverside Human Resources is
required. Misdemeanor and/or felony convictions may be disqualifying depending on type, number, severity, and
recency. In addition, personal references and employment information will be verified.

Volunteer Reserve Photographers serve at the pleasure of the Riverside County Fire Chief and may be
separated at any time. Volunteer Reserve Photographers have no employment rights with the County of
Riverside and are not considered employees.

HOW TO APPLY
Applications may be obtained at www.rvcfire.org as positions are open and available. All required documentation
must be submitted with the application including a resume.