Fire Chief

The Fire Chief is responsible for the overall management and operation of a paid on call Fire Department including administration, fire prevention, fire suppression, emergency response, training, fire code enforcement, public education/community relations and emergency management planning. The Fire Chief provides leadership and technical expertise regarding the development and implementation of service levels, policies and long-range strategies, operating and capital budgets. and acts as the Community Emergency Management Coordinator (CEMC) for the Town.

Responsibilities

Core Result Area: Budgets and Finances

• Preparation of the annual operating budget for the Department, carrying out all operations within budgetary allocation, ensuring all funds are spent in an efficient manner and ensuring compliance with budget control procedures established by the Town.
• Prepares specifications for purchases of all major equipment, assesses responses to tenders and recommends appropriate vendor to Council. Directs the maintenance of equipment ensuring compliance to legislative requirements and Town policy.

Core Result Area: Planning and Operations

• Develops and implements plans and strategies for all department activities including firefighting, fire prevention, public education, rescue and related life and property-saving functions.
• Assumes overall command at major fire, rescue, and hazardous related incidents, directing Chief Officers in carrying out all required activities.
• Directs fire prevention activities, including the enforcement of the Ontario Fire Code related legislation, by:
  • inspecting properties as to risks and hazards
  • advising property owners as to fire prevention techniques
  • addressing community groups and other bodies
  • review and approve fire prevention and public education programs
  • direct the Deputy Chief and Assistant Deputy Chief carrying out investigations of major incidents to determine a cause and origin of a fire
  • working with the Ontario Fire Marshal’s Office and Ontario Provincial Police as required

• Emergency Planning duties including:
  • act as the Community Emergency Management Coordinator (CEMC) as designated by Emergency Management Ontario and municipal Council
  • completion and maintenance of the Town of Essex Emergency Plan, the community hazard and risk assessment, annual training of staff, an inventory of the critical infrastructure of the municipality, an annual exercise of the plan and a public awareness and preparation program
  • supervising the alternate CEMC’s in any emergency planning duties assigned
  • Directs the preparation and enforcement of all fire related by-laws

Core Result Area: People and Performance

• Directs the supervision of the firefighting personnel including:
  • recruiting and recommending appropriate individuals
  • developing and organizing training programs to concur with the Firefighters Curriculum as set forth by the Ontario Fire Marshal's Office
  • reviewing performance and dealing with disciplinary matters in accordance with municipal policy and relevant legislation
  • enforcing policies of the Town and operating regulations of the department and maintaining discipline and morale

• Actively maintain a positive workplace environment by communicating and supporting staff in performing their duties; and effectively addressing workplace challenges as they emerge

Liaison with the Chief Administrative Officer, Senior Management Team, other management staff, Office of the Fire Marshal, Emergency Management of Ontario, Ontario Provincial Police, Ministry of the Environment and other agencies as required

Qualifications

• Post-Secondary degree or diploma in Business/Public Administration or related field and/or a combination of relevant education and experience
• Must have the following certifications:
• NFPA 1001 – level I and II
• NFPA 1021 – level II or above
• NFPA 1031 – level I or above
• NFPA 1033
• NFPA 1035 – level I or above
• Working knowledge of applicable Occupational Health and Safety legislation, Ontario Fire Code, Fire Protection and Prevention Act, Ontario Building Code, National Fire Prevention Association, existing standards, related and existing municipal bylaws, legislation and standards
• Thorough knowledge of the characteristics of fire, fire spread, building material and construction practices and have a working knowledge of alarm systems, suppression devices, emergency lighting, internal communications equipment and blueprints
• Experience conducting fire inspections with associated reporting and deficiency follow-up
• Experience in preparation of reports and correspondence within established timelines
• Highly developed collaborative skills, a strong sense of public service and an ability to direct, manage and control a fire service operation
• Strong communication (written, oral and interpersonal), analytical, report writing, problem solving, presentation, public relations, strategic planning, organizational, project/time management, training, leadership and supervisory skills
• Ability to demonstrate tact and discretion in handling matters of confidential or politically sensitive nature and to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to deal effectively at fostering good rapport and cooperative working relationships
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word, Power Point and Fire Pro
• Valid Class DZ Driver’s License

Work Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of service in Fire Services at a Senior Officer level

Employment Level

• Full-time

Work Conditions

• 35 hours per week
• Monitor pager, phone and emails 24/7, and respond as necessary
• Some evening and weekend meetings
• Exposure to the dangerous situations, hazardous substances, inclement weather and related conditions while on a fire site
• Dealing with distressed or excited people
• Deadlines for response to emergency situations, completion of programs and reports, etc.

Equity Statement

The Town of Essex is an Equal Opportunity Employer that is committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes and will accommodate the needs of applicants under the Ontario Human Rights Code and Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Accommodation may be provided in all parts of the hiring process.

The salary range for this position is $111,343 to $135,349, dependent upon experience.