Director of Fire and Emergency Services/Fire Chief

Salary rate: $138,760 to $156,175 (2025 rate of pay). Relocation and other assistance available.

The Township of Georgian Bay is a growing water-based community located in the District of Muskoka along the eastern shore of beautiful Georgian Bay. We have a multitude of inland lakes, are a gateway to the world-famous 30,000 Islands and the access point to Georgian Bay Islands National Park. Steeped in history, our cultural roots are an important part of our community.

The Township has a permanent resident population of approximately 3,500 and an additional seasonal population of around 17,500. The municipal office is in Port Severn which is a short commute from Barrie, Midland, Orillia, Parry Sound, and surrounding areas. Read our Community Profile to learn more about the Township.

Your opportunity: Due to an upcoming retirement, we are looking for a dedicated leader to join our team as the Director of Fire and Emergency Services/Fire Chief. Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), you will contribute to the strategic vision of the municipality through effective leadership and management of a team of talented individuals within the Fire and Emergency Services department.

You will play a critical leadership role in the efficient and effective management of the department, including preparing and managing the budget, monitoring and approving expenditures, creating and presenting reports to Council, overseeing staff management and development, and managing procurement and purchasing activities, while ensuring all services are delivered in compliance with applicable legislation.

Duties include but are not limited to:

• Provide leadership and direction to Fire and Emergency staff, including a dedicated group of Volunteer Firefighters.
• Oversee the day-to day operations of the Fire and Emergency Services Department, including emergency response coordination, operational planning, administration functions, training programs, staff scheduling, facility and equipment maintenance, and external partnerships.
• Develop and implement annual departmental goals and objectives that align with Council’s direction.
• Advise Council, the CAO, and staff on matters related to fire protection and prevention, fire code enforcement, and public education.
• Manage the administration of fire prevention and education services, fire suppression activities, emergency preparedness, and first response medical services.
• Respond to emergency calls during the workday and after hours, as required.
• Administer the municipality’s emergency management program, ensuring proper documentation, training, and regulatory compliance.
• Undertake special projects and assignments as directed by the CAO.

Knowledge/experience:

• Post-secondary diploma or degree in Fire Services, Public Administration, Business, or a related field.
• Ten (10) years of relevant experience, including five (5) years of significant experience as a Deputy or Assistant Fire Chief, preferably working with a Volunteer Fire Service.
• Completion of the following certifications:
  • NFPA 1021, Fire Officer IV
  • NFPA 1031, Fire Inspector
  • NFPA 1033, Fire Investigator
  • NFPA 1035, Fire and Life Safety Educator
  • NFPA 1521, Incident Safety Officer
  • Community Emergency Management Coordinator (CEMC)
  • Canadian Small Domestic Vessel Basic Safety (SDV-BS) course.
  • Fire Aid and CPR
• Valid Ontario Class DZ Drivers Licence with the ability to provide a clean Drivers Abstract.
• Crisis Management or Mental Health Training and Media Training.
• Comprehensive knowledge of emergency incident management, including experience in the role of Incident Commander.
• Sound knowledge of relevant legislation: Fire Protection and Prevention Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, Ontario Building Code (as it relates to fire matters), Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, Municipal Act, Environmental Protection Act.
• Advanced working knowledge of fire protection and prevention methods, rescue and first aid procedures, safety procedures, rules, and equipment. Thorough knowledge of the operating of all apparatus and equipment and methods in combating, extinguishing, and preventing fires.
• Exceptional organizational, project management, leadership, interpersonal, and verbal and written communication skills.

The Township of Georgian Bay offers a competitive benefits package and is a member of the OMERS pension plan. Our Flexible Work policy allows for a hybrid work schedule or compressed workweek option, as appropriate.

The Township of Georgian Bay is committed to an inclusive, barrier free environment. Accommodation will be provided in all steps of the hiring process. Please advise the Township’s Human Resources Department if you require any accommodations to ensure that you can participate fully and equally during the recruitment and selection process.

We thank all applicants for their interest in the Township of Georgian Bay; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. In accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Privacy Protection Act, all information collected under the authority of the Municipal Act, 2001, will be used only during the selection process for the subject of posting.