Fire Chief

Job Overview
Under the general direction of the City Administrator, the Fire Chief is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Fire Department. The Chief provides vision, direction, leadership and management oversight for all activities and services including fire/rescue operations and prevention, emergency medical response, training and safety procedures, records and financial management, apparatus, equipment and personnel management. The Chief performs duties of department personnel including but not limited to firefighting, medical calls and other supervisory and support duties as required.

Responsibilities

• Plans, directs and reviews day-to-day activities of all Fire Department personnel.
• Establishes all policies, procedures and regulations for firefighting, emergency, operational and prevention standards in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
• Develops and makes recommendations regarding all fire code regulations.
• Responsible for identifying, pursuing, and administering grant opportunities related to fire services, emergency management, equipment, training, and capital improvements. This includes researching funding sources, preparing and submitting grant applications, coordinating required documentation, ensuring compliance with grant requirements, and managing reporting obligations in collaboration with city administration.
• Supervises and directs the implementation of goals, objectives and plans of the Fire Department.
• Evaluates work conditions in the department and takes necessary action to improve fire and other emergency operations.
• Updates the City Administrator on a regular basis regarding department operations, including any present or potential problems, and makes suggestions for new or improved ways of addressing such issues.
• Plans, develops, conducts and supervises departmental in-service training.
• Plans and directs public education, fire prevention and community risk reduction programs.
• Performs various public relations functions including contact with the media, public, private organizations, schools, area fire departments and state and national organizations.
• Prepares an annual budget for consideration by the City Administrator, including asset management, surplus management, working with township agreements.
• Attends City Council, staff and other meetings as required; serves on committees, boards and agencies related to fire service.
• Participates and may coordinate community celebrations and events such as parades, Hoover Hometown Days, school medaling, and others. Oversees the West Branch Fire Department’s role in event planning, coordination, and on-site operations to ensure public safety, positive community engagement, and effective interdepartmental collaboration.
• Responds to citizens’ questions and comments in a courteous and timely manner.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Position requires five (5) years of experience in fire, rescue, and EMS management or any combination of education and experience which would provide the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities needed to perform the duties of this position. Experience working with volunteer fire fighters is required. Graduate of the NFA Executive Fire Officer Program, and Chief Fire Officer designation through the Centers for Public Safety Excellence are preferred. Must possess or can attain the following certifications:

· Firefighter I

· Haz-Mat Operations

· Firefighter II

· EMT

· Fire Officer I

· Fire Instructor I

· Iowa Driver’s License

Must reside within twenty (20) miles of the West Branch corporate city limits.

Pay: $80,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Dependent health insurance coverage
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person