THE OPPORTUNITY

Hampden Township seeks a Deputy Chief of Fire Operations to lead emergency operations, strengthen response readiness, and support the people who serve our community. Reporting to the Chief of Fire & Rescue, you will supervise operational personnel and work closely with the Hampden Township Volunteer Fire Company and mutual aid partners. This role requires a leader who builds trust, develops personnel, and uses operational performance data to improve service. Career personnel are expected to strengthen volunteer capacity and preserve meaningful opportunities for volunteers to serve safely and effectively.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

Lead fire and rescue operations, staffing coverage, apparatus response readiness, and incident command; participate in the Duty Chief rotation and respond to major emergencies. Evaluate turnout times, response reliability, staffing gaps, and non-response causes. Lead incident reviews and follow through on corrective actions. Direct training, officer development, driver qualification, and command competency programs for volunteer and career personnel; support volunteer recruitment and retention. Serve as Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator unless otherwise designated. Support EOC readiness, exercises, continuity planning, and disaster coordination. Maintain operational policies, deployment and mutual aid plans, records systems, GIS, and response technology. Assist with budgets, grants, strategic planning, accreditation, and ISO improvement. Coach and supervise personnel, address unsafe conditions, and coordinate with Fire Company leadership and regional partners.

QUALIFICATIONS AND APPLICATION MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Associate degree in fire science, emergency management, public administration, organizational leadership, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and progressively responsible experience. At least seven years of progressively responsible fire service experience, including at least three years in a supervisory or command officer role. Firefighter II and Fire Officer II certifications, or equivalent recognized credentials.

NIMS/ICS

100, 200, 300, 400, 700, and 800. Valid driver license with an acceptable driving record and the ability to obtain any license classification required to operate Township apparatus. Demonstrated ability to manage emergency operations, supervise personnel, communicate professionally, prepare written reports, and work effectively in a combination fire service environment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor degree; Fire Officer III or IV; Fire Instructor certification; current Pennsylvania EMT certification or higher; and experience with volunteer and combination department management, technology and communications systems, and incident command.

SCHEDULE AND WORKING CONDITIONS

The position has a 40-hour workweek with a flexible schedule that regularly includes evenings, weekends, holidays, and emergency response. Duty Chief rotation, extended incidents, and work beyond normal hours are required. The position is based at a Township Emergency Services facility and works throughout the Township and mutual aid area. Candidates must be able to work in emergency environments and adverse weather, wear personal protective equipment, climb, lift, and perform assigned command or operational duties. Required medical, physical, and credentialing standards must be maintained.

ANNUAL SALARY RANGE

$84,532-$114,366

Pay:

$84,532.00 - $114,366.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person