Fire Chief

Fire ChiefVernon Township Fire DepartmentFortville, Indiana | Full-Time | ExemptReports to: Fire Protection Territory BoardSupervises: Deputy and/or Division Chiefs, Directors & Battalion Chiefs General Definition of WorkThe Fire Chief serves as the executive leader of the Vernon Township Fire Department and is responsible for providing strategic vision, organizational leadership, and operational excellence in the delivery of fire suppression, emergency medical services, emergency management, community risk reduction, and public safety services. The Fire Chief is expected to be a leader who inspires trust, develops people, and builds a culture of accountability, professionalism, innovation, and continuous improvement. Working collaboratively with the Fire Territory Board, Township officials, department personnel, and community partners, the Fire Chief establishes a clear organizational vision and leads the department in achieving measurable results that enhance service delivery and strengthen community confidence. This position is responsible for the overall administration and leadership of the department, including strategic planning, fiscal stewardship, personnel development, emergency preparedness, policy development, labor and employee relations, capital planning, facilities and apparatus management, and regulatory compliance. The Fire Chief creates an environment where employees are empowered to grow, leaders are intentionally developed, innovation is encouraged, and organizational decisions are guided by the department's core values. The Fire Chief delegates authority appropriately while maintaining accountability for organizational performance. Through effective leadership, sound judgment, and transparent communication, the Fire Chief fosters collaboration throughout the organization and develops strong partnerships with elected officials, neighboring agencies, community organizations, businesses, and residents. As the face of the Vernon Township Fire Department, the Fire Chief demonstrates integrity, humility, professionalism, and pride in representing the department. The successful candidate will balance respect for the department's traditions with a forward-thinking approach that prepares the organization to meet future challenges and opportunities while providing exceptional service to the community. Essential Functions Leadership and Organizational CultureCreates and communicates a compelling vision for the future of the Vernon Township Fire Department.Builds a culture where accountability, trust, ownership, and continuous improvement are expected at every level.Inspires employees to achieve their highest potential through coaching, mentoring, and professional development.Develops succession plans to ensure long-term organizational stability and leadership continuity.Promotes psychological safety while maintaining high standards of performance and accountability.Leads organizational change with transparency, consistency, and respect for department traditions.Recognizes and celebrates employee achievements while fostering pride in the department and its service to the community. Management Effectiveness and Organizational PlanningEnsures department resources, facilities, apparatus, and equipment are strategically managed to maximize operational readiness, fiscal responsibility, and long-term sustainability.Leads effective meetings that promote collaboration, informed decision-making, organizational alignment, and accountability.Ensures department facilities, apparatus, equipment, and technology are maintained to support operational readiness and long-term sustainability.Establishes, reviews, and maintains departmental policies, procedures, and operational standards that support safe, effective, and legally compliant operations.Directs the department's financial planning, budgeting, purchasing, payroll oversight, and fiscal accountability in accordance with policies and applicable laws.Develops performance measures, prepares organizational reports, and communicates department progress through strategic planning and regular stakeholder engagement.Leads continuous organizational improvement through accreditation efforts, ISO evaluation, strategic planning, and implementation of industry best practices. Internal and External CommunicationsServes as the primary ambassador of the department with elected officials, partner agencies, employees, and the public.Builds trusted relationships through transparency, active listening, and timely communication.Clearly communicates organizational priorities, performance, and challenges while fostering confidence among stakeholders.Develops a monthly report highlighting key milestones and strategic updates, emphasizing communication with key stakeholders.Provides information to the public and the department through various formats. Community Relations and Customer ServiceDevelops meaningful partnerships that improve public safety and strengthen community resilience.Promotes proactive community risk reduction through education, outreach, and collaboration.Represents the department with professionalism and credibility at local, regional, and state levels. Technical ExpertiseMaintains professional competency in fire and EMS leadership, emerging technologies, emergency management, and industry best practices.Encourages innovation by evaluating new practices, technology, and service delivery models that improve safety and organizational effectiveness.Periodically attends professional training seminars as required and for professional growth. Leadership CompetenciesVisionary LeadershipStrategic ThinkingOrganizational DevelopmentEmotional IntelligenceChange ManagementFiscal StewardshipTalent DevelopmentCollaborative Decision-MakingPolitical AcumenCommunity EngagementEthical LeadershipCrisis Leadership Professional KnowledgeThe Fire Chief shall possess:Comprehensive knowledge of modern fire suppression, emergency medical services, rescue operations, emergency management, community risk reduction, and incident command principles.Thorough knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, standards, and fire service best practices.Knowledge of organizational leadership, strategic planning, budgeting, financial management, human resources, labor relations, and public administration.Knowledge of departmental accreditation, ISO evaluation processes, performance measurement, and continuous quality improvement.Working knowledge of the geographic characteristics, hazards, infrastructure, and response needs within the Vernon Township Fire Territory. Required AbilitiesThe successful candidate must be able to:Supervise, evaluate, mentor, and develop department personnel while promoting fairness, accountability, and high performance.Effectively manage multiple priorities and organizational initiatives while maintaining operational readiness.Analyze complex situations, evaluate alternatives, and implement practical solutions.Prepare, interpret, and present technical reports, policies, budgets, strategic plans, and other administrative documents.Maintain appropriate confidentiality while ensuring transparency and compliance with public records requirements.Meet all department hiring, certification, and retention requirements.Respond to emergency incidents, serve in an incident command role when necessary, and remain available for emergency response on a 24-hour basis.Perform the essential physical requirements of the position, including prolonged standing or walking, lifting, carrying, climbing, reaching, bending, and operating department vehicles and equipment.Work evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended hours as operational needs require, including occasional overnight travel. Education and ExperienceMinimum of five (5) years' experience in a full-time paid department or agency.Preferred bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in fire science, emergency medical services delivery, public administration, or a closely related field, or equivalent experience with major coursework in the areas above.National Incident Management Systems courses at the 100–400 and 700–800 levels.Command and supervisory experience preferred in an organized fire and emergency medical services agency.Any combination of education and experience may be considered.Possession of a valid Indiana driver's license and demonstrated safe driving record. Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen and a State and Federal criminal background check. Physical RequirementsThis position includes the physical and environmental demands associated with fire and emergency services leadership and operations, including emergency response, operation of department vehicles and equipment, use of personal protective equipment, and potential exposure to hazardous environments. Full Job Description & To ApplyVernon Township Fire Department is accepting applications for Fire Chief through October 2, 2026. Candidates should be prepared to submit a cover letter, resume, applicable certifications, and professional references. To apply, please visit our Fire Chief hiring page here: https://vernontwpfirehc.gov/fire-chief-hiring/ NOTE: LinkedIn applications are not accepted. Apply only through the link above.