Town of Sandisfield Department of Public Works Fire Chief/EMS Chief Job Description

STATEMENT OF DUTIES

Position is responsible for all operations of the Fire Department to include the Fire Rescue response and Emergency Medical Services. Position is responsible for the overall management, preplanning, implementation and administration of the EMS department and the provision of emergency medical services in conformance with applicable provisions of the Massachusetts General Laws, professional standards and Sandisfield's EMS Policy and Procedure Manual. Under supervision of Town Manager.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

• Oversees overall Fire/EMS department operations, including personnel supervision, daily activities, fire suppression, fire prevention, EMS, administration, disaster preparedness, and HR-related matters.
• Manages all Fire/EMS equipment, vehicles, and ensures regular maintenance, inspections, and compliance with safety standards.
• Completes required smoke inspections
• Develops, manages, and monitors the department's budget; reviews and approves purchases, payroll, and expenditures.
• Prepares and presents the annual budget request and annual town report to the Town Manager.
• Coordinates with hospitals, public health officials, and medical professionals to plan for mass casualty incidents and emergency response.
• Administers state and federal grant applications to secure funding for department initiatives.
• Leads weekly firefighter meetings, trainings, and monthly EMT squad meetings.
• Submits monthly performance reports to the Town Manager.
• Oversees public education and outreach for emergency medical services and preparedness.
• Directs emergency response coordination across local, state, and federal agencies; keeps the Town Manager informed and prepares declarations of emergency as needed.
• Develops and regularly updates department policies to reflect current operational needs.
• Serves as the public face of the department, including media relations and community engagement.
• Maintains discretion and safeguards access to confidential information, including personnel, legal, medical, and investigative records.
• Works collaboratively with the Select Board and Town Manager.
• Performs other related duties as required.

SUPERVISION

The Chief works under administrative direction, setting departmental goals, policies, and performance standards while being fully accountable for results. They oversee all operations, manage resources, resolve conflicts, and consult with the Town Manager when needed. The Chief directs staff to achieve program objectives, develops short- and long-term plans, allocates budgets and personnel, and regularly evaluates and reports on departmental progress.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Associate or Bachelor's Degree in Fire Science or related field (preferred)
• 5-10 years of related experience or equivalent combination of education and training
• Valid Class D Driver's License

Certifications:

MA EMT (preferred) o Firefighter I/II o

ICS 100 & 200

(300/400 preferred) o HazMat Ops

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITY, AND SKILLS

Extensive knowledge of fireground operations, EMS procedures, rescue techniques, hazardous materials response, and applicable laws and regulations. Ability to lead under pressure, set strategic goals, manage budgets, communicate effectively, and maintain strong interagency relationships. Skilled in operational planning, resource management, and the use of firefighting and lifesaving equipment.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The nature of duties may involve continuous presence of unpleasant or irritating elements, such as considerable noise, odors, chemical fumes, dust, smoke, heat, cold, oil, dirt or grease. Work may be continually performed outdoors, regardless of weather conditions. May be required to be on call for 24 hours or being under prolonged pressure during emergency situations.

PHYSICAL, MOTOR, AND VISUAL SKILLS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a Chief to successfully perform the essential function of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Duties require frequent physical exertion, including lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, and extended periods of standing or walking. The role also demands strong hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills for precise equipment operation, and visual acuity for reading documents, using computers, monitoring instruments, and distinguishing color differences.

Pay:

$75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Professional development assistance Retirement plan Ability to

Commute:

Sandisfield, MA 01255 (Required) Ability to

Relocate:

Sandisfield, MA 01255: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location:

In person