Fire Chief

JTown of Bethlehem, New Hampshire

Job Posting: Full-Time Fire Chief

Position Title: Fire Chief
Department: Bethlehem Fire Department
Status: Full-Time
Reports To: Select Board
Salary Range: $70,000-$80,000
Application Deadline: Applications will start being reviewed on March 30.

Position Overview

The Town of Bethlehem, New Hampshire is seeking a qualified and community-oriented professional to serve as Full-Time Fire Chief. The Fire Chief is responsible for the overall leadership, administration, and operations of the Bethlehem Fire Department, including emergency response, personnel supervision, training, fire prevention, and departmental planning.

Bethlehem is a vibrant North Country community that relies on a combination fire department consisting of dedicated volunteer and on-call members. The Fire Chief will play a critical role in maintaining high standards of public safety, fostering strong volunteer engagement, and ensuring the department operates efficiently and in compliance with state and federal regulations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The Fire Chief performs a wide variety of administrative, operational, and leadership duties including, but not limited to:

Leadership and Administration

• Provide leadership, direction, and supervision for all fire department personnel, including volunteer and on-call members.
• Develop and implement departmental policies, procedures, and operational guidelines.
• Prepare and manage the department’s annual operating budget and capital improvement requests.
• Maintain department records, reports, and regulatory compliance documentation.
• Work collaboratively with the Town Administrator, Select Board, and other municipal departments.

Emergency Operations

• Respond to and command fire, rescue, EMS assist, hazardous materials, and other emergency incidents.
• Ensure safe and effective incident command in accordance with nationally recognized standards.
• Maintain operational readiness of apparatus, equipment, and personnel.

Training and Personnel Development

• Coordinate training programs to ensure members meet required state certifications and maintain operational readiness.
• Recruit, mentor, and retain volunteer firefighters.
• Promote a positive and professional department culture emphasizing safety, teamwork, and service.

Fire Prevention and Community Engagement

• Oversee fire prevention programs including inspections, public education, and code compliance.
• Serve as a liaison with community organizations, neighboring departments, and regional emergency response partners.
• Promote public safety awareness through community outreach.

Planning and Coordination

• Assist with long-range planning for equipment, facilities, and staffing.
• Coordinate mutual aid with surrounding municipalities.
• Work with state and regional emergency management organizations as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Fire Science, Public Administration, or related field preferred.
• Certification as Firefighter II (or equivalent) required.
• Fire Officer I certification preferred.
• EMT-B
• Valid driver’s license.
• Experience in fire service leadership or supervisory roles.
• Ability to obtain additional certifications as required by the Town.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience leading a combination or volunteer fire department.
• Incident Command System (ICS) and National Incident Management System (NIMS) training.
• Knowledge of municipal budgeting, grant programs, and capital planning.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• EMT-A

Physical Requirements

The position requires the ability to perform the physical duties associated with firefighting and emergency responses including lifting, climbing, and operating emergency equipment.

Compensation and Benefits

The Town of Bethlehem offers a competitive salary based on qualifications and experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Health insurance
• Retirement participation through the New Hampshire Retirement System (NHRS)
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development opportunities

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Three professional references

Applications should be submitted to:

Town Administrator
Town of Bethlehem
2155 Main Street
Bethlehem, NH 03574

Or via email to: admin@bethlehemnh.gov

The Town of Bethlehem is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Pay: $70,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person