Bear Creek District Chief

JOB
The Bear Creek District Chief is a senior leadership position responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating emergency and non-emergency operations for Bear Creek Fire Station. This role provides operational oversight, ensures effective incident command, and supports the Fire Chief Division Chief in managing departmental programs, personnel, and resources. This position ensures operational readiness, effective deployment of resources, compliance with applicable regulatory and professional standards, and continuous organizational improvement. Serving as second-in-command, the District Chief acts on behalf of the Fire Division Chief when designated and serves as Incident Commander when required.Our core values—Resilience, Excellence, Accountability, Customer Service, and Honesty—are the foundation of our work and the standard by which we operate. As a member of our team, you are expected to demonstrate these values in every aspect of your role. This means delivering high-quality work, taking responsibility for your actions, providing exceptional service, and maintaining integrity in all interactions. Your commitment to these principles is essential to fostering a positive workplace culture and ensuring the success of our organization and the community we serve.

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
Facilitates a safe work environment where employees are treated with respect, dignity, and compassion. Manages performance and completes annual performance evaluations for direct reports. Provide command and leadership during major incidents by assessing conditions, implementing strategic and tactical plans, and directing multi-company emergency responses (fire, EMS, hazardous materials, rescue, and other incidents) while coordinating incoming resources and maintaining operational control until relieved by the Fire Division Chief.Participate in recruitment, selection, and performance evaluations.Provide coaching, training, and professional development for staff.Ensure compliance with county policies, safety standards, and applicable regulations.Assist in budget development and monitor expenditures for assigned divisions.Analyze performance metrics for continuous improvement. Represent the department at county, regional, and state meetings; engage in public relations and community outreach.Monitor industry trends and recommend improvements in equipment, technology, and operational methods.Conduct operational studies and recommend procedural changes for efficiency and effectiveness.Assist in the development of departmental policies and standard operating guidelines (SOGs).Attends meetings to provide leadership, operational updates, and guidance on policy, programs, and emergency response activities.Provides guidance and oversight for the inspection, maintenance, testing, and repair of all fire apparatus and operational equipment to ensure operational readiness and reliability.Assists with overseeing lifecycle management of apparatus, equipment, and facilities to ensure reliability and compliance.Oversees the development, delivery, and evaluation of training programs for career and volunteer personnel.Maintain documentation systems that support state reporting and internal audits.Ensure required training certifications, safety documentation, and compliance records are complete and auditable.Provides leadership, guidance, and administrative support to volunteer members to ensure operational readiness and compliance with department standards.Facilitates onboarding, orientation, and mentoring processes.Coordinate the development of pre-incident plans.Performs assigned functions as a Disaster Ready Team (DRT) member.Performs additional tasks as required.To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Associates degree with coursework in fire science, fire administration, fire protection technology, public administration, or related field and a minimum of four (4) years of progressive fire service experience at the rank of Fire Captain or higher; or equivalent combination of education and experience.Preferred: Experience as Battalion Chief or Assistant ChiefBachelor's degreeSpecial Requirements: Must possess or maintain: North Carolina Firefighter Level IIHazardous Materials Responder Level 1 (NFPA 472 and OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120, IFSAC)Emergency Vehicle Driver (NFPA 1002, IFSAC)Driver Operator – Pumps (NFPA 1002, IFSAC)Fire Officer Level II (or state-recognized equivalent)Fire Instructor Level 1 (NFPA 1041, IFSAC)NIMS 100, 200, 300, 700, 800 (NFPA 1561)NC EMT Blood-borne Pathogens Training (NFPA 1581 and OSHA 29 CFR 1910.130)NC Class "B" or CDL "B" driver's licenseNC TR General (or ability to obtain within 18 months of employment)Public Fire Education 1 (within the first 12 months of employment). NC Fire Investigation Technician certification (within 12 months of hire).Salary will be determined based on qualifications, internal equity, budget, and market considerations.If applicable, your final transcript showing the date your degree was awarded and/or any required certificates or licenses listed in the application must be uploaded with your application, even if you are a current employee or we have received it with a previous application.