Fire Chief - Lead Multi-Hall Fire Services & Strategy

Regional District of East Kootenay; Cranbrook; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 136,000; Full time

Job summary

Regional District of East Kootenay seeks a Fire Chief to oversee four fire halls and multiple departments. You will lead strategic operations, manage staffing, and ensure high-level emergency response with a people-first, values-driven approach.

The role requires NFPA certifications, strong leadership, and relationship-building skills, plus experience with budgeting, planning, and incident command. Applicants should reside within the EV/SC area and be prepared for after-hours incidents.

Qualifications

• NFPA fire service certifications are required.
• Negotiating and managing paid-on-call firefighters is essential.
• Strong leadership and communication abilities are essential.
• Experience with emergency management and incident command is preferred.
• Ability to prepare reports and manage department records.

Responsibilities

• Recruits, develops, and retains paid-on-call firefighters and selects officers.
• Directs training programs to meet operational demands and maintain competencies.
• Implements a comprehensive safety program and ensures health and safety regulations.
• Inspires a culture of open communication, collaboration, and accountability.
• Oversees daily administrative and operational activities of four fire halls.
• Prepares five-year financial plans and manages budgets within policy.

Skills

Leadership

Relationship-building

Strategic planning

Communication skills

Education

NFPA 1001 Firefighter Level II

NFPA 1021 Fire Officer Level I

NFPA 1041 Fire Service Instructor Level I

OFC Fire Investigator or NFPA 1033 Fire Investigator

NFPA 1051 or SPP-WFF1 or equivalent

ICS 300

Intro to Emergency Management BC

First Responder Level 3 / CPR Level C

Tools

Microsoft Office

Operational databases/software

First Due

Job description

Regional District of East Kootenay seeks a Fire Chief to oversee four fire halls and multiple departments. You will lead strategic operations, manage staffing, and ensure high-level emergency response with a people-first, values-driven approach.

The role requires NFPA certifications, strong leadership, and relationship-building skills, plus experience with budgeting, planning, and incident command. Applicants should reside within the EV/SC area and be prepared for after-hours incidents.