Fire Chief

Fire Chief Position

Under the executive direction of the City Manager, the Fire Chief plans, organizes, directs, and controls fire suppression, emergency services, fire prevention, fire training, and rescue operations for the City of Marietta. This position performs in an executive capacity, ensuring the safety and welfare of the City and the public through the effective management of all Fire Department programs, activities, stations, personnel, apparatus, equipment, supplies, and facilities.

The Fire Chief directs large-scale fire or emergency scenes, determining and executing strategies for victim rescue and property protection. Work requires mastery of fire suppression, containment, rescue techniques, and emergency medical care, as well as strong executive management skills. The Fire Chief works a 40-hour workweek, with mentally and physically demanding responsibilities, including exposure to hazardous situations.

Essential Job Functions:

• Directs, plans, and implements all Fire Department goals and objectives; ensures effective deployment of all department resources.
• Directs and evaluates executive and management staff; oversees professional, technical, and support personnel across suppression, rescue, training, information management, and prevention divisions.
• Ensures division collaboration for optimal performance and efficient use of resources.
• Provides professional leadership through Deputy and Assistant Chiefs, Commanders, and Lieutenants; promotes a positive work environment.
• Develops and administers the department budget; monitors expenditures; ensures compliance with City financial policies; researches funding sources and manages grant funding.
• Responds to large-scale fire and medical emergencies as needed, directing fire, rescue, police, and mutual aid crews.
• Directs maintenance and repair of facilities and equipment to ensure operational readiness.
• Evaluates personnel proficiency, identifies training needs, and ensures workforce preparedness and leadership development.
• Performs executive and administrative duties as part of the City's executive management team.
• Evaluates department policies and implements necessary updates or new policies.
• Maintains current competencies and directs the ongoing development of personnel in management, fire, rescue, and specialized disciplines.

Competencies for Successful Job Performance:

• Thorough knowledge of personnel management and training practices.
• Comprehensive understanding of fire and emergency management operations and professional standards.
• Advanced skill in using firefighting and rescue equipment, including extrication tools, ropes, air bags, and related techniques.
• Knowledge and ability to administer emergency medical care and CPR.
• Advanced understanding of fire behavior involving various construction materials, chemicals, petroleum products, and smoke conditions.
• Advanced knowledge of chemistry, mechanics, and hydraulics related to fire science.
• Knowledge of fire code regulations and inspection procedures.
• Ability to interpret and apply City and departmental policies and procedures.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Skill in preparing accurate technical reports.
• Proficiency in using a personal computer for information retrieval, reporting, and communication.
• Ability to build effective working relationships with City personnel, other jurisdictions, and professional organizations.
• Skill in handling citizen inquiries and promoting positive community relations.
• Ability to manage emergency situations calmly and professionally, making quick, critical decisions.
• Ability to maintain physical condition in accordance with department standards.
• Thorough knowledge of City roads, water mains, hydrant locations, alarm systems, and water systems.

Necessary Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree (Master's preferred) in management, public administration, or a related field.
• Meets all Marietta and Georgia Firefighter standards and certifications, including Firefighter, AEMT, and CPR.
• Experience as an instructor in fire-service topics.
• Minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience as a certified Firefighter/AEMT, including at least five years at Commander level or higher.
• Valid Georgia Driver's License.

Disclaimer: Successful candidates must submit to a drug screen and background check.