Fire Chief: Visionary Leader in Public Safety & EMS

City of San Marcos, Texas; San Marcos (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of San Marcos, Texas is seeking a Fire Chief to provide visionary leadership and strategic oversight of all Fire Department operations, including fire suppression, EMS, prevention, and disaster risk reduction.

The role requires executive-level budget management, capital planning, and personnel development to deliver high-quality emergency response and prevention programs for the community.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in public or business administration or a related field. Equivalent experience may substitute for a degree.
• Seven (7) years of experience as a fully paid firefighter.
• Demonstrated experience in command-level leadership roles (e.g., supervisory or incident command).
• Must be eligible for Intermediate Firefighters Certificate with Commission on Fire Protection Personnel Standards.
• Must possess and maintain an Advanced or Master Firefighter certification from the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP).
• Must possess and maintain an EMT Basic level of certification or higher; advanced EMS certifications may be required.
• A Texas Commission on Fire Protection Hazardous Materials Technician Certification is required within one year of appointment.
• Must possess a valid Texas Driver's License with an acceptable driving record.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for all Fire Department operations, ensuring alignment with community safety priorities and organizational goals.
• Develop and implement policies, programs, and long-range plans that enhance fire prevention, emergency response, and disaster preparedness.
• Oversee departmental budget and capital improvement planning, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and fiscal accountability.
• Direct workforce planning, including recruitment, training, performance management, and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Foster collaboration with other departments, agencies, and community stakeholders to strengthen emergency management and public safety initiatives.
• Ensure operational readiness through continuous evaluation of programs, policies, and equipment, adapting to emerging risks and best practices.
• Represent the department and the City in professional forums, community engagements, and interagency coordination efforts.
• Maintain 24-hour availability for major emergencies and assume command during critical incidents to safeguard lives and property.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Budgeting & capital planning

Regulatory compliance

Public administration

Emergency management

Communication skills

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in public or business administration

Job description

The City of San Marcos, Texas is seeking a Fire Chief to provide visionary leadership and strategic oversight of all Fire Department operations, including fire suppression, EMS, prevention, and disaster risk reduction.

The role requires executive-level budget management, capital planning, and personnel development to deliver high-quality emergency response and prevention programs for the community.