Fire Chief

City Of Carmel•Carmel, IN
•$170,014 - $220,000•Onsite

About The Position

The City of Carmel is seeking an exceptional fire service leader to serve as its next Fire Chief. This is an opportunity to lead people, influence the future of public safety, and help shape how a dynamic community prepares for what’s next. At the City of Carmel, we innovate fearlessly, lead with heart and empower together. Our next Fire Chief will bring those values to a department where operational excellence, exceptional service and continuous improvement aren't finish lines, but the starting point.

Requirements

  • A high school diploma or GED supplemented by college-level coursework in fire services management; a bachelor’s degree is preferred.
  • At least 15 years of fire service experience, including supervisory and management responsibilities.
  • At least 5 years at the rank of Captain or higher.
  • A valid Indiana driver’s license.
  • Required Indiana certifications including Firefighter I & II, Fire Instructor I, Strategy and Tactics, EMT, Fire Officer I-IV, Hazardous Materials Awareness & Operations and Incident Safety Officer.
  • NIMS 100, 200, 300, 400, 700 and 800.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead complex operations, develop people, manage organizational change and make sound decisions under pressure.
  • Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills with employees, elected officials, public safety partners and the community.

Nice To Haves

  • An Associate degree in Fire Science
  • CPSE professional credentials
  • National Fire Academy EFO
  • Hazardous Materials Technician certification

Responsibilities

  • Provide executive and operational leadership for the Carmel Fire Department, overseeing fire suppression and prevention, emergency medical services, rescue, hazardous materials response, disaster preparedness and major emergency operations.
  • Set the department’s strategic direction, goals and priorities and turn them into action.
  • Lead, develop and empower firefighters, officers and the department’s next generation of leaders.
  • Serve as Incident Commander during major fires and emergencies and ensure lessons learned become opportunities to improve.
  • Make critical personnel decisions involving hiring, promotion and discipline.
  • Develop policies, programs and operational strategies that anticipate the changing needs of the community.
  • Use data and performance measures to identify trends, evaluate operations and make informed decisions.
  • Develop and administer the department budget with a focus on operational readiness and responsible stewardship of public resources.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, professional standards and departmental policies.
  • Build strong partnerships with local, regional and state public safety organizations.
  • Work collaboratively with the Mayor, City leadership, elected officials and departments across the organization.
  • Serve as a visible and trusted representative of Carmel Fire within the community and the fire-service profession.
  • Lead from the scene when the call demands it.
  • Serve as Incident Commander during major emergencies, maintain required operational qualifications and remain prepared for 24-hour response to significant incidents.
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