Relocation Requirement:

Due to emergency incident command duties and a department take-home vehicle, relocation to Tippecanoe County or the immediate surrounding area is required upon hire.

Job Title:

Fire Chief Department:

Wea Township Fire Department Location:

Tippecanoe County, IN Employment Type:

Full Time (Exempt)

Estimated Salary:

$96,000 / year

Benefits:

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance (Individual & Family coverage available), Department Take-Home Vehicle About the Role The Wea Township Fire Department is seeking a dynamic, strong leader to continue driving the positive growth and modernization of our department. Having fully transitioned from a volunteer force to a thriving combination department in January 2025, we are looking for a Fire Chief to direct daily operations, foster department culture, and ensure top-tier service delivery to our community. Reporting directly to the Wea Township Trustee, the Fire Chief oversees 11 full-time personnel and 18 volunteer firefighters. You will be responsible for operational effectiveness, financial management, long-term strategic planning, and building strong relationships across local and regional public safety networks. Why Relocate to Greater Lafayette? Located just 1 hour from Indianapolis and 2 hours from Chicago, Tippecanoe County blends vibrant community life with exceptional Midwest affordability. Anchored by Purdue University, the area boasts top-rated public schools, a thriving downtown arts and dining scene, and extensive outdoor recreation.

Key Responsibilities Leadership & Personnel Management:

Lead, direct, and mentor full-time and volunteer staff; conduct regular performance evaluations and coordinate ongoing department training (including attending monthly volunteer meetings/trainings).

Operational Command:

Direct emergency responses, serve as Incident Commander for major incidents (structure fires, natural disasters, etc.) during and after normal working hours, and maintain overall disaster management readiness.

Administration & Budgeting:

Prepare and manage the department's annual budget, track expenditures, allocate resources, and provide regular operational and financial updates to the Township Trustee.

Community & Prevention:

Oversee fire prevention, community risk reduction, public safety education, and incident investigation efforts.

Compliance & Logistics:

Ensure strict compliance with local, state, and federal regulations while overseeing the maintenance and readiness of all equipment, vehicles, and facilities.

Stakeholder Engagement:

Build collaborative relationships with neighboring departments, community stakeholders, and local government bodies.

Minimum Qualifications Education:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Fire Science, Public Administration, or a closely related field.

Experience:

8 years of fire service experience, including at least 4 years in an administrative/supervisory role within an organized full-time fire department.

Certifications:

Indiana or IFSAC Firefighter I/II Indiana or IFSAC Haz-Mat Awareness/Operations Indiana or IFSAC Fire Officer III Indiana or IFSAC Fire Instructor II Indiana or National Registry EMT-Basic Skills & Abilities:

Proven leadership in emergency management and budget oversight. Advanced training in emergency management concepts. Excellent interpersonal, analytical, and crisis-decision-making skills. Physical capability to perform firefighting and rescue operations as needed. Thorough knowledge of local, state, and federal fire codes and safety laws. Preferred Qualifications Indiana or IFSAC Fire Officer IV Chief Fire Officer (CFO) designation from the Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE) Executive Fire Officer (EFO) designation from the National Fire Academy (NFA) Why Relocate to Greater Lafayette? Located just 1 hour from Indianapolis and 2 hours from Chicago, Tippecanoe County blends vibrant community life with exceptional Midwest affordability. Anchored by Purdue University, the area boasts top-rated public schools, a thriving downtown arts and dining scene, and extensive outdoor recreation. Company Description Serve with purpose Wea Township Fire Department is a combination department built on career staff and dedicated volunteers. If you want meaningful work that protects your neighbors, we want to hear from you. More than a paycheck We are looking for people who want to be part of something bigger than themselves. Whether you are starting out or bringing years of experience, you will find a team that has your back. Professional standards Career and volunteer members train to the same expectations. Certifications, continuing education, and operational readiness are non-negotiable. Neighbor-focused service We respond to the people we live alongside. Every shift and every call is a chance to make a real difference where it matters most. Room to grow From firefighter to officer, EMS credentials to specialty rescue, we invest in the people who want to build a career in public service. Modern equipment Our fleet and gear are maintained to serve a growing community. You will train on apparatus and tools that match the job you are asked to do. Company Description Serve with purpose Wea Township Fire Department is a combination department built on career staff and dedicated volunteers. If you want meaningful work that protects your neighbors, we want to hear from you. More than a paycheck We are looking for people who want to be part of something bigger than themselves. Whether you are starting out or bringing years of experience, you will find a team that has your back. Professional standards Career and volunteer members train to the same expectations. Certifications, continuing education, and operational readiness are non-negotiable. Neighbor-focused service We respond to the people we live alongside. Every shift and every call is a chance to make a real difference where it matters most. Room to grow From firefighter to officer, EMS credentials to specialty rescue, we invest in the people who want to build a career in public service. Modern equipment Our fleet and gear are maintained to serve a growing community. You will train on apparatus and tools that match the job you are asked to do.