Fire & Emergency Services Chief

Ketchikan Gateway Borough; Ketchikan (AK); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Ketchikan Gateway Borough is seeking a Fire Chief to lead the South Tongass Volunteer Fire Department and manage the South Tongass Service Area. The role directs fire suppression, EMS, rescue, prevention, and training aligned with Borough policy, serving as incident commander when needed.

The Chief will oversee staff and volunteers, ensure NFPA compliance, coordinate with boards and agencies, and drive budgeting, training, and community risk reduction initiatives.

Qualifications

• Eight years of experience with a recognized fire department, including four years of supervisory fire or EMS experience.
• Experience leading and coordinating both volunteer and career personnel.
• Knowledge of fire service and EMS management, fire prevention and suppression, incident command, budgeting, and local government operations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work with the service area board, the public, and other agencies.

Responsibilities

• Plan, direct, and evaluate fire suppression, EMS, rescue, prevention, and training per policy.
• Serve as incident commander at emergency scenes and represent the department to boards and partners.
• Oversee budget, equipment, and facilities, pursue grants, and manage training records.
• Coordinate fire cause investigations and prepare incident reports.
• Head risk reduction, public education, and firefighter health and safety programs.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Policy compliance

Decision making

Communication

Emergency response

Education

High school diploma

Related degree preferred

Job description

Ketchikan Gateway Borough is seeking a Fire Chief to lead the South Tongass Volunteer Fire Department and manage the South Tongass Service Area. The role directs fire suppression, EMS, rescue, prevention, and training aligned with Borough policy, serving as incident commander when needed.

The Chief will oversee staff and volunteers, ensure NFPA compliance, coordinate with boards and agencies, and drive budgeting, training, and community risk reduction initiatives.