Fire Chief
Now accepting applications for Fire Chief.
The City of Columbia Falls is seeking applicants for Fire Chief with demonstrated leadership capabilities with a volunteer fire department in a growing municipal and rural setting. The Fire Chief reports to the City Manager and serves as a key member of the City's management team. This position leads the City's 26 member volunteer Fire Department that serves both the City of Columbia Falls and the Columbia Falls Rural Fire District. The Chief directs the planning, delivery and evaluation of all department services and activities and promotes positive community relationships. The successful candidate will have a strong background leading a volunteer fire department, knowledge or experience with transitioning to a part-paid department, be familiar with public budgeting and finance; experience with fire inspection programs and community development; ability to write and administer grants; and must be technologically proficient.
The minimum education and experience qualifications are: Graduation from a college or university with a Bachelor's degree in fire science, public administration or a closely related field; and Seven years of experience in fire service work, three years of which must have been equivalent to fire lieutenant or higher; or An equivalent combination of education and experience. The salary range for the Fire Chief position is $68,000 - $73,000. The City of Columbia Falls offers a competitive benefit package that includes MT Fire Uniform Retirement System, paid vacation and sick leave in accordance with State statute, 12 paid holidays, optional IRS 457 and flexible benefit plans, and substantial contributions to health, dental and vision coverage for employee/spouse/family.