Fire Chief

Situated just north of Huntsville, 2.5 hours north of the GTA, 1 hour south of North Bay, and 4 hours west of Ottawa, the Township of Perry is known as the true gateway to Almaguin Highlands and Northern Ontario. Located at the southernmost part of Almaguin Highlands and bordering the District of Muskoka, our Township, comprised of the settlement areas of Emsdale and Novar and small, unique hamlets in between, provides the backdrop for the coveted charming and easy-going lifestyle enjoyed by all.

Whether you want to take a leisurely hike at Brooks Falls, visit one of our Community Parks in Emsdale or Novar, enjoy a scenic boat ride from one of two boat launches, stroll through our dog park, or witness the magnificent snow on the OFSC Trail System, the Township of Perry has many four-season settings where you and your family can relax and enjoy yourself!

Job Description

The Township of Perry seeks a detail-oriented, conscientious, and safety-focused leader to fill the full-time position of Fire Chief. This position entails comprehensive management and operation of a volunteer Fire Department, as well as responsibilities related to Emergency Management.

As a key Senior Management Team member reporting directly to the Clerk-Administrator, the Fire Chief will oversee all facets of fire services. Responsibilities include administration, policy development, operational procedures, fire suppression and investigation, fire prevention, public education, emergency medical responses, community emergency planning, and public relations. The role also involves participating in meetings and ensuring compliance with the Ontario Fire Code, municipal by-laws, and provincial and federal legislation. Furthermore, this position includes the duties of the Community Emergency Management Coordinator.

POSITION TITLE: Fire Chief
DEPARTMENT: Emergency Services
GRADE 16: Salary Range $83,200.48 to $104,000.60
REPORTS TO: Clerk-Administrator

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Fire Chief manages and operates a volunteer Fire Department. The Fire Chief carries out the statutory duties of the Fire Chief. As a member of the Senior Management Team reporting to the Clerk-Administrator, the Fire Chief is responsible for the overall operation of the fire services including administration, policy development, operational procedures, fire suppression/investigation, fire prevention and public education, emergency medical responses, community emergency planning, public relations, ensuring compliance with the Ontario Fire Code, Municipal By-Laws and Provincial and Federal Legislation in the Municipality.

This position is also responsible for the health and safety coordinator and community emergency management coordinator.

The Township of Perry has one (1) fire station, a Fire Chief, a Deputy Fire Chief/Fire Prevention Officer, and a volunteer force of approximately 15 firefighters. It is part of a five (5) Fire Department Automatic Aid response for all fire incidents.

MAJOR TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

FIRE CHIEF

• The Chief Fire Official for the Municipality.
• Evaluates municipal needs and circumstances relating to fire protection and emergency response.
• Evaluates and measures municipal fire risk.
• As an assistant to the Fire Marshal, and performs all duties associated with the position.
• As the principal advisor to senior management and the council on matters of fire protection, emergency management, and preparedness,
• Assumes incident command at significant emergencies.
• Establishes and maintains a working environment which promotes positive morale and teamwork.
• Promotes fire prevention and education.
• Develops, plans, implements, and manages a fire prevention inspection program.
• Review, update, implement and maintain the Township’s Fire Department Establishing and Regulating By-law.
• Implements and maintains the Master Fire Plan for the Township.
• Prepares reports and recommendations for the council's review of fire services.
• Works closely and cooperatively with other Township Departments, Office of the Fire Marshal, Emergency Management Ontario, and Mutual Aid System.
• Administers and enforces the Ontario Fire Code, conducts inspections within the Municipal. Acts as Provincial Offences Officer through Inspection Orders and judicial proceedings.
• Responds to inquiries, complaints and problem situations when required.
• Investigates complaints and claims, provides prompt follow-up, and submits reports to the appropriate authorities if necessary.
• Liaises with and develops positive stakeholder relations with stakeholders, residents, the business community, local boards and authorities, and the Provincial and Federal Governments.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

COMMUNITY EMERGENCY MANGAGMENT COORDINATOR (CEMC)

• The CEMC is responsible for developing the Municipality’s Emergency Plan, conducting annual training and exercises, and performing other tasks to meet legislative requirements.
• Ensure the Municipality is in a continuous state of readiness during a municipal emergency.

MANAGEMENT/SUPERVISION

• Provide direct supervision to all members of the Fire Service.
• Manages and administers the Municipality's fire safety, suppression, and emergency services.
• Applies the provisions of the Fire Protection and Prevention Act and the Ontario Fire Code through fire safety inspections and fire code enforcement.
• Ensures all department personnel receive adequate training and professional development in their respective areas, as deemed appropriate by approved budget allocations.
• Performs leadership, administrative and supervisory functions, including recruitment, training, hiring, promotion, performance, discipline, performance evaluations and termination of all Fire Services employees, including volunteers, subject to all Municipal policies and procedures, Provincial and Federal laws and in consultation with the Clerk where appropriate.
• Ensures implementation of and compliance with applicable legislation, regulations, policies, procedures, and standards including, but not limited to, Corporate Policies, Occupational Health and Safety Act, Fire Safety Plans, Electrical Safety Authority, Technical Standards Act, the Municipal Acts, etc.
• Responsible for directing, preparing, submitting, and controlling all budgets under the Department's jurisdiction as approved by the Township Council.
• Researches, outsources and ensures that best practices are used and performance meets or exceeds the required standards.
• Ensures that all staff are trained in new operating procedures, safety, and legislative requirements and that all certifications and training courses are current.
• Ensure tendering and purchase policies are followed and approve purchase orders and invoices for the fire department according to the budget(s) approved by the Council.
• Gives general supervision and manages and directs the work of a major organization unit; duties are varied and intricate.
• Secures professional assistance to counsel firefighters when dealing with injury and/or death of people they know.

DECISION MAKING – JUDGMENT, PROBLEM SOLVING, INITIATIVE

• Enforces the Ontario Fire Code, reviews building plans, carries out all necessary inspections and issues require notices and orders.
• Maintain the communication system and ensure that it is up to date.
• Plans and undertakes fire response and prevention training in the Fire Area, arranges station tours, speaks on fire prevention in the community, and makes the public aware of the municipality's firefighting services.
• Prepares, recommends, and implements general orders and departmental rules necessary for the care and protection of the department's property, the conduct of the volunteers, and the efficient and effective operation of the department.
• Regularly reviews and revises the policies and procedures of the department to ensure that they are appropriate under the circumstances.

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE:

• Must have ten (10) years of experience as a firefighter, five (5) years of experience as an officer, and five (5) years in a senior leadership role. 
• Post-secondary education in fire service administration or related program.
• NFPA 1021 Fire Officer II as a minimum, with the expectation of completing NFPA FO III within one year of acceptance of the position
• NFPA 1041 II
• NFPA 1521
• NFPA 1031 I
• The successful applicant will be willing to enroll in continuing education at the Ontario Fire College on technical training and enforcement responsibilities.
• Additional qualifications, such as a Community Emergency Management Coordinator designation and relevant certifications from the Ontario Fire College, are highly valued.
• The Township seeks someone committed to professional growth and capable of effectively managing and leading all aspects of fire service operations.
• Joint Health and Safety Certification Level II

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL:

• Extensive practical knowledge of related legislation, policies, procedures, directives and guidelines affecting the Township Fire Services.
• Excellent organizational and management skills
• Ability to apply supervision, leadership, and guidance, as well as focus attention on priorities.
• Excellent administrative, report writing, presentation and customer service skills
• Solid understanding of municipal budget planning, forecasting and management principles.
• Ethical conduct, political sensitivity, discretion, integrity and reliability.
• Must possess excellent computer skills. Must be proficient in Microsoft programs (including but not limited to Word, Excel, Outlook, Power Point and Municipal-specific programs).
• Strong ability to communicate effectively and persuasively with diverse audiences.
• Must possess current CPR and First Aid Certification.
• Must possess a valid class "DZ" Ontario Driver's License in good standing.
• Police Vulnerable Sector Check deemed satisfactory to the Township

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

40-hour work week with most time spent on administration, leadership and supervision. Relatively high public contact: work is subject to interruption; some exposure to physical hazards and severe weather conditions. Requires attendance at evening meetings. Requires flexibility and ability to respond quickly.

Must be willing to relocate within 20 minutes of the Perry Township Fire Hall, 64 Old Government Road, Emsdale, Ontario.