Fire Chief

Are you a seasoned fire service professional with exceptional leadership skills? Do you possess a passion for public safety and a strong commitment to serving the community? The Hagerstown Fire Department is seeking an experienced and dynamic individual to join our team as the Fire Chief. This is a unique opportunity to lead a dedicated team of firefighters and contribute to the safety and well-being of the vibrant city of Hagerstown, Maryland.

Position Overview:

As the Fire Chief, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Hagerstown Fire Department's operations, including fire suppression, fire investigation, hazardous materials response, code enforcement, and fire prevention. You will play a crucial role in setting strategic goals, developing departmental policies, and fostering a culture of excellence, teamwork, and innovation.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Executes the duties of the position while adhering to the rules and regulations as outlined in the Charter and Code of the City of Hagerstown, the City’s Personnel Policies, and the City’s Code of Ethics.

2. Plans and directs the operation and administration of the department, including the promulgation of fire department policies, standard operating guidelines, the efficient use of personnel and equipment, the procurement of materials, supplies, and equipment necessary for the operations of the department, the preparation of proposed budget, and the maintenance of adequate records of fire department activities.

3. Works both independently and in conjunction with subordinate volunteer and career officers to plan methods and processes to meet operating needs and service demands, study records, reports and statistics to ascertain present conditions to obtain information upon which to base fire department programs and projection of future service needs.

4. Develops long and short term plans and strategies to address community and organizational needs, including creation and management of Hagerstown’s emergency preparedness plan, and the department’s strategic plan.

5. Works with Command Staff and employees to identify professional growth and development opportunities that will support long term and short term staff career goals and foster a commitment of continuous improvement.

6. Prepares and presents recommendations to the City Administrator and Mayor and Council on matters pertaining to Department services and operations. Effectively prepare and present fire department issues to community and professional groups, various civic, business, and educational groups, the public, and media outlets.

7. Manage and evaluate work of subordinates, including supervisory personnel through use of formal performance evaluations and informal feedback.

8. Oversee labor functions such as grievance processing, making hiring, promotion, and termination recommendations, administering disciplinary action when appropriate, and ensuring adequate training within the department in accordance with City policies, departmental policies, and any applicable collective bargaining agreement.

9. Serve as liaison to other professional organizations regarding fire, EMS, rescue, hazardous materials, and emergency management and to community groups to ensure support and understanding of Fire Department’s role and needs.

10. Prepares the departmental proposed budget and oversee the department adopted budget.

11. Provides oversight to employee training and safety programs at various locations.

12. Performs the duties of Incident Commander as needed, wearing appropriate turnout gear as required. May be required to visit construction sites and fire scenes to provide general support and guidance to department staff.

Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Fire Science, Business or Public Administration or equivalent combination of education and experience required. Other desired education includes Maryland Fire Officer I, II and III, Staff and Command, Executive Fire Officer Program and/or requirement to meet NFPA 1021 Fire Officer Professional Qualifications.

• Seven years of increasingly responsible experience in all major functions of a municipal fire department, with at least four years in a command position.

• Proven experience in a leadership role within a fire department or related organization.

• Strong knowledge of modern firefighting techniques, equipment, and emergency medical services.

• Excellent communication skills to effectively interact with diverse audiences and represent the department positively.

• Demonstrated ability to make sound decisions under pressure and manage resources efficiently.

• Possession of a valid driver's license and necessary certifications (e.g., Fire Officer, Fire Instructor, Paramedic).

• Residency within a reasonable proximity (Around 30 miles) to downtown Hagerstown, MD, is preferred.

Compensation and Benefits:

The Hagerstown Fire Department offers competitive compensation commensurate with experience and qualifications. Additionally, benefits include health and dental insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment.

Application Process:

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume, cover letter to dharkcom@hagerstownmd.org or apply online at hagerstownmd.org/jobs. The application deadline is October 6, 2023.

Join us in safeguarding the Hagerstown community and making a lasting impact on public safety as the Fire Chief of the Hagerstown Fire Department. Your leadership will shape the future of our department and contribute to the well-being of our citizens. Apply today and be part of our mission to serve and protect.

• Age: N/A
• Education: See Job Description
• Experience: See Job Description

Application Process:

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume, cover letter to dharkcom@hagerstownmd.org or apply online at hagerstownmd.org/jobs. The application deadline is October 6, 2023.

Join us in safeguarding the Hagerstown community and making a lasting impact on public safety as the Fire Chief of the Hagerstown Fire Department. Your leadership will shape the future of our department and contribute to the well-being of our citizens. Apply today and be part of our mission to serve and protect.