Visionary Fire Chief & Public Safety Leader

GovHRUSA; Elk River (MN); On-site; USD 161,000 - 178,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Extensive benefits package

Job summary

GovHRUSA is assisting Elk River, Minnesota in recruiting a seasoned Fire Chief to lead a 45-member paid-on-call department serving Elk River and parts of Big Lake Township. The role emphasizes safety, strategic leadership, and community engagement.

The ideal candidate will oversee operations, training, and education, work with city leadership on policies and planning, and manage the budget while pursuing grants.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in fire science, public administration, business administration, or related field is required. A master’s degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of progressively responsible fire safety experience in an on-call or full-time fire department. Senior executive-level leadership experience.
• MBFTE certification must be possessed or obtained within six months of hire. First responder certification and a valid driver's license are required.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with ability to build relationships with diverse communities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the department effectively, creating strategies, policies, and practices that meet community needs and uphold fire safety standards.
• Ensure ongoing communication with city leadership to address public safety priorities and growth.
• Oversee daily operations including emergency response, training, fire education, emergency management, plan review, and fire code enforcement.
• Manage the department budget and seek grants or funding for initiatives.
• Promote continuous professional development and training for all personnel.
• Create and implement policies, work with senior management on city-wide plans and City Council recommendations.
• Lead the department’s response to emergencies and critical incidents.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Public safety leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in fire science or related field

Master's degree preferred

Job description

GovHRUSA is assisting Elk River, Minnesota in recruiting a seasoned Fire Chief to lead a 45-member paid-on-call department serving Elk River and parts of Big Lake Township. The role emphasizes safety, strategic leadership, and community engagement.

The ideal candidate will oversee operations, training, and education, work with city leadership on policies and planning, and manage the budget while pursuing grants.