International Association-Fire Chiefs
Chief of Fire Rescue Services
International Association-Fire Chiefs, Sporting Hill, Pennsylvania, United States
Overview
The Chief of Fire Rescue Services serves as a key member of Hampden Township staff, particularly first responders. The Chief develops and translates strategic direction and plans into action through the development of policies, leadership, supervision, management, allocation of resources, and innovation for Hampden Township fire rescue services. All duties and responsibilities require consistent attention and commitment to this agency's mission, goals, vision, values, and Hampden Township’s motto of “Where People Come First.” The Chief reports directly to the Township Manager. The Chief is responsible for recommending departmental policies, planning long-term programs, implementing approved policy, managing best practices, and making executive-level decisions in alignment with the direction of the organization as defined by the Board of Commissioners. Primary duties involve overseeing all fire rescue operations, including developing recommendations and plans for the protection of life and property within the community. Responsibilities include developing, recommending, and implementing approved major departmental policies; planning long-term programs; supporting township-wide and department sustainability, innovation, and communication efforts; and making difficult technical and administrative decisions. Work involves responsibility for leading, managing, and administering all fire rescue service operations. Work includes assuring the accomplishment of the mission, values, and vision of Hampden Township and fire rescue service goals through the direct and indirect supervision of all personnel assigned to fire rescue services. Work will require attending and participating in evening and weekend meetings/events and significant emergency call responses. Work is performed with wide latitude for independent judgment and action and is reviewed by the Township Manager, the Board of Commissioners and the Board liaison to the fire company through conferences, reports, and the success of the department's programs and activities. The position reports to the Township Manager. Hours, place of work, and essential functions are described below. Supervisor : Township Manager Hours of Work : As a salaried employee, a minimum of 40 hours per week is expected, but more may be required. No overtime will be paid. Place of Work : The Chief is based at one of the Township’s two fire rescue service buildings and will also be required to work as needed throughout the Township. Essential Functions : Executive level management duties
Partners with other Department Heads and staff to advocate and promote fulfillment of the Township’s mission statement, values, and vision. Directs fire personnel (including volunteers) and operations to meet the Township’s strategic plan, goals, and objectives established by the Township Manager and Township Board of Commissioners. Embodies Hampden Township’s motto of “Where People Come First” in all interactions with citizens, employees, vendors, and intra-departmentally. Serves as the Public Information Officer during emergency fire rescue service situations. Develops, supports and champions the combination fire rescue service concept to maximize collaboration between volunteer and career members. Represents the Township, Board of Commissioners, and fire rescue service in a professional manner and positive light. Represents the Township and Fire Rescue Services at County, Regional, or state-level association organizations as assigned by the Township Manager. Develops policies, procedures, and best practices that demonstrate exceptional customer service, innovation, and prudent stewardship of Township resources. Develops and recommends Standard Operating Guidelines (SOGs), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), General & Special Orders, Personnel Orders, rules, regulations, procedures, and best practices for fire rescue services operations within the Township; and enforces when adopted. Addresses contentious issues in a timely and professional manner that reflects and supports Township management philosophy and decisions. Communicates and collaborates with the Township Manager, Hampden Township Volunteer Fire Company Leadership Team, and Management Team members to develop innovative solutions that support a high-performance organization. Models and encourages fire rescue employees and volunteers to demonstrate ownership and support of the Township by fostering a collegial and supportive work environment. Supports and encourages ongoing employee and volunteer professional development through internal and external education and training to improve member performance and service to the community. Ensures fire rescue members meet appropriate state, ISO and other training and certification requirements as established by the department. Develops a management team of both career and volunteer members that supports the goals and objectives of an all-hazards full-service fire rescue service. Applies the principles and best practices of public administration, financial, and human resource management. Maintains proficient knowledge of and clear interpretations of all applicable laws, ordinances, and codes. Attends Township Board of Commissioner meetings as required and takes necessary action regarding agenda or discussion items. Staff management and development
Demonstrates a long-term perspective through coaching and development of employees and volunteer members to meet retention and succession management goals. Supervises personnel and takes necessary actions to ensure proper personnel administration by coaching, mentoring, leading, and counseling to create an environment of minimal interpersonal conflict and high employee/volunteer satisfaction. Supervises members, including completing performance evaluations, making disciplinary recommendations, and approving leave and time sheets. Participates in investigating and implementing disciplinary actions approved and as set by policy. Provides effective oversight and leadership to plan, assign, and efficiently direct the work of subordinates in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale. Coaches and holds employees and volunteers accountable to conduct their work and activities in a manner that embraces the Township’s policies and values. Directs allocation of staff (volunteer and paid) and equipment for maximum effectiveness. Provides for and oversees a comprehensive program for hiring and training of new personnel (volunteer, part-time, and full-time). Oversees recruitment and retention activities of the volunteer fire company in the Township. Oversees development and administration of a comprehensive continuing education training program for volunteer, part-time, and full-time members. Determines and ensures personnel (volunteer, part-time, and full-time) are qualified to perform assigned duties and responsibilities. Keeps informed as to personnel, property, and operations by observation, reports and subordinate input and acts on such information to improve operations. Communicates effectively, clearly and concisely with staff (paid or volunteer), other Township employees, other emergency service members, the public, members of civic organizations, or other agencies. Operational Management Duties
Provides day-to-day managerial decisions on problems and issues that arise, ensuring cost-effective and sustainable operations with respect to Township-owned facilities, vehicles, equipment, apparatus, and personnel (volunteer, part-time, and full-time). Participates in the preparation of specifications and planning for new equipment, stations, and other facilities, and equipment. Demonstrates extensive knowledge of the principles, practices, and techniques of modern fire suppression, prevention, rescue and emergency medical response, and applies this knowledge to varied problems. Prepares reports and implements work programs, projects or schedules. Prepares recommendations and studies for administrative consideration. Oversees direction of the comprehensive program of fire prevention including inspection of structures and conduct of fire and life safety education programs. Responds to and is authorized to take command of emergency incidents and personally directs emergency activities through subordinate officers. Directs related administrative activities including Township department budget preparation and execution, purchasing, personnel management, reports, employee training, and correspondence in administration of projects. Directs all planning activities for fire rescue service (short- and long-range); prepares and implements comprehensive plans and planning policies. Reviews plans, technical reports, budget estimates, and proposed ordinances and regulations under Fire Rescue Services. Standardizes requests for purchases and approves purchase orders for fire rescue materials, supplies, and equipment, ensuring use of cooperative purchasing and state contracts when possible. Maintains and improves fire rescue services incident response to fulfill safe community strategic objectives. Studies community hazards and risks, develops performance goals, and recommends response deployment plans for a safe and effective force. Studies effectiveness of Township fire rescue resources, staffing, operational response systems, and automatic/mutual aid resources; provides evaluation and status reports as needed. Develops, recommends, implements, monitors, and evaluates plans for providing consistent, competent, and professional emergency services to the Township. Administrative management duties include budget preparation, procurement, and record maintenance. Responsible to ensure all incident and service responses are properly documented and, where applicable, billed to offset operational costs. Prepares and ensures communication of special orders, instructions, notices, administrative memoranda, and other forms of communication to fire rescue services personnel. Attends meetings/events/training to stay current on firefighting and administration topics, coordinate mutual aid plans, expand training programs, and exchange ideas. Attends Township Board meetings and workshops as needed; may attend evening or weekend community events. Addresses citizen groups and businesses respectfully and professionally regarding fire rescue activities and promotes public understanding of its work. Maintains regular and punctual attendance and embraces community risk reduction practices. Other functions and requirements of the job may be assigned. Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university or college with major coursework in Public Administration, Fire Administration, Emergency Management, Business Administration, or a related field. Supervisory experience at the Battalion/District/Division Fire Chief level or above. Ten years of proven experience in fire rescue training, fire suppression, fire prevention, emergency medical response, and emergency preparedness, in any combination. Five years of proven progressively responsible management and supervisory responsibility in a fire rescue department. Demonstrated ability to effectively recruit, work with and direct volunteer firefighters. Maintain a valid Pennsylvania driver's license and safe driving record throughout the period of employment. The ability to pass an initial and ongoing background check, criminal investigation, drug test, psychological evaluation and physical exam that meets NFPA 1582 requirements. Current Pennsylvania EMT or National Registry EMT. NIMS/ICS 100, 200, 300, 400, 700, and 800. Firefighter II, Fire Officer IV, Fire Inspector I, Fire Instructor I certifications (DOD, IFSAC, or Proboard). Preferred Qualifications
Master’s Degree from an accredited university or college with major coursework in Public Administration, Fire Administration, Emergency Management, Business Administration, or a related field. Fire Instructor II; Incident Safety Officer; Chief Fire Officer (CFO) designation from CPSE; Graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program. Minimum five years of executive-level experience as a senior manager/leader in a fire rescue service (e.g., Assistant/Deputy or Fire Chief). Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed. Maintains EMT and Firefighter/Fire Officer certifications. Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing. Residence within a 10-mile radius of Hampden Township for emergency response during non-business hours. The statements contained herein reflect general details as necessary to describe the essential functions of this position, the level of knowledge and skills typically required and the scope of responsibility, but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief to balance workload. 7/25
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The Chief of Fire Rescue Services serves as a key member of Hampden Township staff, particularly first responders. The Chief develops and translates strategic direction and plans into action through the development of policies, leadership, supervision, management, allocation of resources, and innovation for Hampden Township fire rescue services. All duties and responsibilities require consistent attention and commitment to this agency's mission, goals, vision, values, and Hampden Township’s motto of “Where People Come First.” The Chief reports directly to the Township Manager. The Chief is responsible for recommending departmental policies, planning long-term programs, implementing approved policy, managing best practices, and making executive-level decisions in alignment with the direction of the organization as defined by the Board of Commissioners. Primary duties involve overseeing all fire rescue operations, including developing recommendations and plans for the protection of life and property within the community. Responsibilities include developing, recommending, and implementing approved major departmental policies; planning long-term programs; supporting township-wide and department sustainability, innovation, and communication efforts; and making difficult technical and administrative decisions. Work involves responsibility for leading, managing, and administering all fire rescue service operations. Work includes assuring the accomplishment of the mission, values, and vision of Hampden Township and fire rescue service goals through the direct and indirect supervision of all personnel assigned to fire rescue services. Work will require attending and participating in evening and weekend meetings/events and significant emergency call responses. Work is performed with wide latitude for independent judgment and action and is reviewed by the Township Manager, the Board of Commissioners and the Board liaison to the fire company through conferences, reports, and the success of the department's programs and activities. The position reports to the Township Manager. Hours, place of work, and essential functions are described below. Supervisor : Township Manager Hours of Work : As a salaried employee, a minimum of 40 hours per week is expected, but more may be required. No overtime will be paid. Place of Work : The Chief is based at one of the Township’s two fire rescue service buildings and will also be required to work as needed throughout the Township. Essential Functions : Executive level management duties
Partners with other Department Heads and staff to advocate and promote fulfillment of the Township’s mission statement, values, and vision. Directs fire personnel (including volunteers) and operations to meet the Township’s strategic plan, goals, and objectives established by the Township Manager and Township Board of Commissioners. Embodies Hampden Township’s motto of “Where People Come First” in all interactions with citizens, employees, vendors, and intra-departmentally. Serves as the Public Information Officer during emergency fire rescue service situations. Develops, supports and champions the combination fire rescue service concept to maximize collaboration between volunteer and career members. Represents the Township, Board of Commissioners, and fire rescue service in a professional manner and positive light. Represents the Township and Fire Rescue Services at County, Regional, or state-level association organizations as assigned by the Township Manager. Develops policies, procedures, and best practices that demonstrate exceptional customer service, innovation, and prudent stewardship of Township resources. Develops and recommends Standard Operating Guidelines (SOGs), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), General & Special Orders, Personnel Orders, rules, regulations, procedures, and best practices for fire rescue services operations within the Township; and enforces when adopted. Addresses contentious issues in a timely and professional manner that reflects and supports Township management philosophy and decisions. Communicates and collaborates with the Township Manager, Hampden Township Volunteer Fire Company Leadership Team, and Management Team members to develop innovative solutions that support a high-performance organization. Models and encourages fire rescue employees and volunteers to demonstrate ownership and support of the Township by fostering a collegial and supportive work environment. Supports and encourages ongoing employee and volunteer professional development through internal and external education and training to improve member performance and service to the community. Ensures fire rescue members meet appropriate state, ISO and other training and certification requirements as established by the department. Develops a management team of both career and volunteer members that supports the goals and objectives of an all-hazards full-service fire rescue service. Applies the principles and best practices of public administration, financial, and human resource management. Maintains proficient knowledge of and clear interpretations of all applicable laws, ordinances, and codes. Attends Township Board of Commissioner meetings as required and takes necessary action regarding agenda or discussion items. Staff management and development
Demonstrates a long-term perspective through coaching and development of employees and volunteer members to meet retention and succession management goals. Supervises personnel and takes necessary actions to ensure proper personnel administration by coaching, mentoring, leading, and counseling to create an environment of minimal interpersonal conflict and high employee/volunteer satisfaction. Supervises members, including completing performance evaluations, making disciplinary recommendations, and approving leave and time sheets. Participates in investigating and implementing disciplinary actions approved and as set by policy. Provides effective oversight and leadership to plan, assign, and efficiently direct the work of subordinates in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale. Coaches and holds employees and volunteers accountable to conduct their work and activities in a manner that embraces the Township’s policies and values. Directs allocation of staff (volunteer and paid) and equipment for maximum effectiveness. Provides for and oversees a comprehensive program for hiring and training of new personnel (volunteer, part-time, and full-time). Oversees recruitment and retention activities of the volunteer fire company in the Township. Oversees development and administration of a comprehensive continuing education training program for volunteer, part-time, and full-time members. Determines and ensures personnel (volunteer, part-time, and full-time) are qualified to perform assigned duties and responsibilities. Keeps informed as to personnel, property, and operations by observation, reports and subordinate input and acts on such information to improve operations. Communicates effectively, clearly and concisely with staff (paid or volunteer), other Township employees, other emergency service members, the public, members of civic organizations, or other agencies. Operational Management Duties
Provides day-to-day managerial decisions on problems and issues that arise, ensuring cost-effective and sustainable operations with respect to Township-owned facilities, vehicles, equipment, apparatus, and personnel (volunteer, part-time, and full-time). Participates in the preparation of specifications and planning for new equipment, stations, and other facilities, and equipment. Demonstrates extensive knowledge of the principles, practices, and techniques of modern fire suppression, prevention, rescue and emergency medical response, and applies this knowledge to varied problems. Prepares reports and implements work programs, projects or schedules. Prepares recommendations and studies for administrative consideration. Oversees direction of the comprehensive program of fire prevention including inspection of structures and conduct of fire and life safety education programs. Responds to and is authorized to take command of emergency incidents and personally directs emergency activities through subordinate officers. Directs related administrative activities including Township department budget preparation and execution, purchasing, personnel management, reports, employee training, and correspondence in administration of projects. Directs all planning activities for fire rescue service (short- and long-range); prepares and implements comprehensive plans and planning policies. Reviews plans, technical reports, budget estimates, and proposed ordinances and regulations under Fire Rescue Services. Standardizes requests for purchases and approves purchase orders for fire rescue materials, supplies, and equipment, ensuring use of cooperative purchasing and state contracts when possible. Maintains and improves fire rescue services incident response to fulfill safe community strategic objectives. Studies community hazards and risks, develops performance goals, and recommends response deployment plans for a safe and effective force. Studies effectiveness of Township fire rescue resources, staffing, operational response systems, and automatic/mutual aid resources; provides evaluation and status reports as needed. Develops, recommends, implements, monitors, and evaluates plans for providing consistent, competent, and professional emergency services to the Township. Administrative management duties include budget preparation, procurement, and record maintenance. Responsible to ensure all incident and service responses are properly documented and, where applicable, billed to offset operational costs. Prepares and ensures communication of special orders, instructions, notices, administrative memoranda, and other forms of communication to fire rescue services personnel. Attends meetings/events/training to stay current on firefighting and administration topics, coordinate mutual aid plans, expand training programs, and exchange ideas. Attends Township Board meetings and workshops as needed; may attend evening or weekend community events. Addresses citizen groups and businesses respectfully and professionally regarding fire rescue activities and promotes public understanding of its work. Maintains regular and punctual attendance and embraces community risk reduction practices. Other functions and requirements of the job may be assigned. Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university or college with major coursework in Public Administration, Fire Administration, Emergency Management, Business Administration, or a related field. Supervisory experience at the Battalion/District/Division Fire Chief level or above. Ten years of proven experience in fire rescue training, fire suppression, fire prevention, emergency medical response, and emergency preparedness, in any combination. Five years of proven progressively responsible management and supervisory responsibility in a fire rescue department. Demonstrated ability to effectively recruit, work with and direct volunteer firefighters. Maintain a valid Pennsylvania driver's license and safe driving record throughout the period of employment. The ability to pass an initial and ongoing background check, criminal investigation, drug test, psychological evaluation and physical exam that meets NFPA 1582 requirements. Current Pennsylvania EMT or National Registry EMT. NIMS/ICS 100, 200, 300, 400, 700, and 800. Firefighter II, Fire Officer IV, Fire Inspector I, Fire Instructor I certifications (DOD, IFSAC, or Proboard). Preferred Qualifications
Master’s Degree from an accredited university or college with major coursework in Public Administration, Fire Administration, Emergency Management, Business Administration, or a related field. Fire Instructor II; Incident Safety Officer; Chief Fire Officer (CFO) designation from CPSE; Graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program. Minimum five years of executive-level experience as a senior manager/leader in a fire rescue service (e.g., Assistant/Deputy or Fire Chief). Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed. Maintains EMT and Firefighter/Fire Officer certifications. Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing. Residence within a 10-mile radius of Hampden Township for emergency response during non-business hours. The statements contained herein reflect general details as necessary to describe the essential functions of this position, the level of knowledge and skills typically required and the scope of responsibility, but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief to balance workload. 7/25
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