Battalion Chief of Training and Safety

Join Our Leadership Team!

Battalion Chief of Training and Safety

Lead. Train. Protect. Inspire.

The Williston Fire Department is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking fire service leader to serve as our next Battalion Chief of Training and Safety. This is a senior command-level leadership position responsible for shaping firefighter development, operational readiness, and department safety culture.

This role directly supports the department’s mission:

The Williston Fire Department is dedicated to providing continuous and reliable service as ambassadors of humanity. We are committed to protecting life and property through an all-hazards approach, enhancing the quality of life for those we serve. Through continuous improvement, we strive to enhance our skills, service, and operations to meet the evolving needs of our diverse community, all while upholding the highest standards of professionalism.

Find the complete Job Description here: https://www.willistonfire.com/employment.html

Why Williston?

• One of Vermont's fastest-growing towns with a vibrant community of over 10,000 residents.
• Daytime population exceeds 20,000 due to bustling commerce and retail.
• A community that balances growth with open space to create a sought-after place to live, work and play.
• Surrounded by natural beauty, nestled between Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains.
• Williston offers a high quality of life, excellent schools, and a wide range of recreational opportunities and easy access to outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and water sports.

Department Overview:

• Annual call volume of 2,600+ incidents, including approximately 1,800 Emergency Medical Responses.
• Paramedic-level emergency transport ambulances.
• All Hazards response organization, including technical rescue capabilities.
• ALS Engine Company operational 24/7 with plans for expansion.
• Community risk reduction and prevention.

This position provides leadership and supervision across both career and call staff, supporting department-wide training, certification compliance, and safety initiatives.

Department Culture Emphasizes:

• Professional development and mentorship
• Strong safety and wellness focus
• Data-driven training and continuous improvement

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Valid Driver's License
• Fire Officer II IFSAC or ProBoard
• Fire I Instructor or higher preferred
• NREMT Paramedic Certification
• 10 years progressive supervisory experience preferred or equivalent combination of education/experience
• Successful completion of a background check.

Preferred Qualifications

• National Fire Academy Incident Safety Officer
• Fire Officer III or IV
• Fire Instructor II
• Bachelor’s degree in Fire Science, Emergency Management, Public Administration, or related field
• Experience managing department-wide training or safety programs

Responsibilities include, and are not limited to:

Training & Professional Development

• Lead department training programs across fire, EMS, rescue, and special operations
• Coordinate recruit academies and departmental continuing education
• Ensure compliance with NFPA, OSHA, and Vermont training standards
• Evaluate performance through drills, simulations, and post-incident analysis

Safety & Risk Management

• Oversee injury prevention and safety reporting programs
• Conduct safety investigations and corrective action reviews
• Integrate safety best practices into operations and training

Leadership & Administration

• Assist with strategic planning and policy development
• Support budget planning for training and safety initiatives
• Coordinate with regional, state, and federal partners

Emergency Response

• Serve in command or supervisory roles during incidents
• Participate in Chief Officer on-call rotation
• Conduct post-incident reviews and lessons learned for events of significance

Work Environment

This position operates in emergency and training environments and may involve:

• IDLH conditions
• Hazardous materials exposure
• Severe weather and strenuous physical activity
• High-stress emergency response environments

Salary and Benefits:

• Starting salary:
• Email applications@willistonfire.com for more details.
• Lateral Hires may have the ability to purchase qualified service credit in the Vermont Municipal Employers Retirement pension system if they previously participated in a public retirement system.
• For further salary and benefits information, email admin@willistonfire.com.

Work Schedule:

• Estimated Start Date: May 4, 2026
• Monday-Friday 8:00-4:00
• Participate in a Chief's on-call rotation shift

Making an Impact Where Leadership Matters

If you are ready to help shape the next generation of firefighters while protecting a growing and vibrant community, we encourage you to apply.

How to Apply (IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ):

Please submit a cover letter and resume to applications@willistonfire.com

Application Deadline: March 27, 2026

The Town of Williston is an equal opportunity employer.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $108,000.00 - $115,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Bereavement leave
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

• Progressive Supervisory: 10 years (Required)

License/Certification:

• NREMT Paramedic (Required)
• Fire Officer II IFSAC or ProBoard (Required)
• Fire Instructor I (Required)
• Driver's License (Required)

Work Location: In person