Chief State Fire Marshal & Public Safety Leader

Commonwealth of Massachusetts; Stow (MA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Commonwealth of Massachusetts seeks a State Fire Marshal to lead statewide fire prevention, training, investigation, and code enforcement. You will advise on fire and life safety, CB RNE hazards, and oversee DFS divisions and capital projects.

The role requires strategic policy development and strong interagency collaboration. You will coordinate with state partners, ensure public safety, and serve as a key public voice during emergencies, with a focus on efficiency and accountability.

Qualifications

• At least 10 years of management experience in the fire service, fire prevention, or a closely related public safety organization.
• At least 5 years’ experience managing non-field operations focusing on policy development, budget management, staffing, and oversight of a public safety organization.
• Demonstrated ability to provide executive leadership and strategic direction to a large, complex public safety agency with multiple divisions and diverse statewide operations.
• Knowledge of state and municipal government structures, regulatory responsibilities, and legislative processes.

Responsibilities

• Provides executive leadership in fire prevention, protection engineering, and public safety education.
• Oversees DFS operations, budgets, and facilities planning.
• Advises on emerging issues, policies, and emergency response planning at the state level.
• Liaises with stakeholders, federal, state, and municipal partners, and the Legislature.
• Oversees training, accreditation, and statewide fire safety initiatives.
• Directs fire service investigative and arson oversight in coordination with relevant units.
• Directs and approves regulations and public policy initiatives within DFS.
• Manages strategic partnerships and grant programs related to fire safety.
• Represents the DFS in media and public communications during incidents.

Skills

Executive leadership

Public safety mgmt

Budget management

Strategic policy

Interagency coordination

Job description

Commonwealth of Massachusetts seeks a State Fire Marshal to lead statewide fire prevention, training, investigation, and code enforcement. You will advise on fire and life safety, CB RNE hazards, and oversee DFS divisions and capital projects.

The role requires strategic policy development and strong interagency collaboration. You will coordinate with state partners, ensure public safety, and serve as a key public voice during emergencies, with a focus on efficiency and accountability.