Job Title: Fire Chief

Department: HSV Fire Department

Reports To: General Manager

FLSA Status: Exempt

Pay Grade: 15

Approved By: Human Resources

Approved Date: 03/03/2025

Position Overview

The Fire Chief is responsible for the overall formulation, organization, direction, supervision and coordination of departmental activities to ensure the effective and efficient provision of emergency and non-emergency services, including but not limited to fire suppression, disaster planning and implementation, hazardous material management, fire prevention and education, and emergency management programs for the village. The position requires a high degree of judgment and initiative as well as an ability to anticipate and react under stress. The position also requires technical, administrative, and supervisory work in planning, organizing, directing and implementing departmental services; work is performed in accordance with Federal and State laws as well as the HSVPOA by-laws, rules and regulations.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Administration

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the fire department.
• Ensure the department is properly staffed, organized, and ready to respond to emergencies.
• Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for the Fire Department personnel, including firefighters, officers, and support staff.
• Develop and manage departmental budgets, ensuring cost-effective use of resources.
• Establish policies, procedures, and best practices for fire response and prevention.
• Oversee and manage the fire department's budget, ensuring funds are spent appropriately by monitoring the financial resources and ensuring the department’s financial stability into the future.
• Develop recommendations for funding, equipment, and staffing needs, both present day and forecasting for future needs.
• Maintain strong working relationships with local government agencies, emergency response organizations, and community stakeholders.
• Prepare and present reports to the General Manager, Board of Directors, and other stakeholders as required.

Emergency Response & Incident Management

• Direct and coordinate firefighting and emergency response efforts, ensuring rapid and effective incident management.
• Serve as Incident Commander during large-scale emergencies or disasters.
• Ensure the department is adequately staffed and equipped to handle fire and hazardous material incidents.
• Oversee the maintenance of fire stations, apparatus, and equipment.
• Oversee the coordination of emergency responses, including mutual aid agreements with neighboring departments.

Fire Prevention & Public Safety Education

• Develop and implement fire prevention programs, inspections, and code enforcement activities.
• Lead public education initiatives on fire safety and emergency preparedness.
• Collaborate with community organizations to enhance fire safety awareness and risk reduction strategies.
• Ensure transparency in operations, fostering trust within the community.

Training & Compliance

• Ensure personnel are trained and certified in accordance with national, state, and local standards.
• Conduct after-action reviews and implement continuous improvement strategies.
• Maintain compliance with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, and other relevant laws.
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Qualifications & Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Fire Science, Emergency Management, Public Administration, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible firefighting experience, with at least 5 years in a supervisory or command role.
• Arkansas Firefighter I & II certification.
• Completion of National Incident Management System (NIMS) training (ICS-100, 200, 300, 400, 700, and 800).
• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
• Experience with budget management, personnel supervision, and policy development.
• Valid Arkansas driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.

Preferred Qualifications

• Executive Fire Officer (EFO) certification from the National Fire Academy.
• Chief Fire Officer (CFO) designation from the Center for Public Safety Excellence.
• Experience managing fire operations in a gated community or similar environment.
• Knowledge of rural and wildland fire operations.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Must be available for emergency response 24/7 as needed.
• Ability to work in hazardous conditions, including exposure to fire, smoke, extreme weather, and hazardous materials.
• Must meet the physical fitness requirements necessary for firefighting and emergency response duties.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan, and paid leave.
• Professional development and training opportunities.