Assistant Fire Chief - Operations

Nature of Work

Under the direction of the Fire Chief, the Assistant Chief of Operations is responsible for all managerial and administrative responsibility of Great Falls Fire Rescue (GFFR) Operations Division to include direct and indirect oversight of emergency response and non-emergency service provided by the Operations Staff. The Assistant Chief of Operations is primarily responsible for analyzing, developing, and implementing a comprehensive, effective emergency operations program that will provide the highest level of service and protection to the community in conjunction with the Fire Chief.

Essential Functions of Work

• Leadership and Supervision 50%

• Directly supervises the four Battalion Chiefs assigned to each of the platoons and works with them to develop operational goals and priorities pertaining to Fire operations.

• Provides leadership and guidance on conflict resolution, training priorities and changes in policy, procedures and protocols.

• Maintains a respectful, productive, and effective working relationship with union representatives; staff, elected officials, city departments, outside agencies, and the public:

• Evaluates current employee/management relations and initiates the development of a process thatsupports a positive and participative culture.

• Assists the Fire Chief with supervision of the Fire Training Division in the development, evaluation and implementation of training programs within the department.

• Attends, participates in, and assumes a leadership role in given community emergency planning and disaster exercises in order to understand and respond to community needs and enhance the service delivery of GFFR.

• Assists the Fire Chief with investigating and resolving complaints and grievances.

Operational Coordination 20%

• Ensures platoon manning meets operational numbers and is balanced to ensure operational efficiency with fiscal responsibility in mind.

• Responds to major fires and emergencies as the senior administrator to determine the appropriate method of response, and to critique and provide direction the command staff.

• Evaluates and develops projects for facility and building improvements. Develops plans for capital improvement projects or programs,

• Analyzes occupational hazards and injury-on-duty statistics to develop, maintain and lead application of risk management concepts to reduce injuries and property damage.

• Organizes and participates in recruitment, hiring, and promotional processes.

• Coordinates major purchases within the department and oversees the purchase of small equipmentand supplies in accordance with the City's procurement policy and the Fire Chief.

• Assists the Fire Chief with investigating and resolving complaints and grievances.

Management and Mentorship 30%

• Actively participates and is a cohesive member of the Department's leadership team. Provides thoughts and ideas in the development and implementation of departmental strategic goals.

• Participates in Labor Management Committee, chairs Promotion and Safety Committees.

• May serve as the Acting Fire Chief in his/her absence.

• Communicates directly with all related personnel in efforts to encourage, motivate, and promote leadership, teamwork in accomplishing GFFR objectives.

• Delegates responsibilities to subordinate staff and visits all stations regularly to meet with key staff on both program and department issues.

• Assists the Fire Chief in the overall operational planning, budgeting for the department.

Education and Experience

• Possession of a Bachelor's Degree in Public Administration, Fire Science or a related field preferred.

• Ten years of progressively responsible fire service and administrative experience, including a minimum of five years of supervisory experience.

Requirements of Work

• Capable of conducting analysis of complex problems or issues and develop comprehensive proposals and corrective actions.

• Must possess the ability to relate interpersonally and communicate orally and in writing.

• Skilled at conflict resolution and problem solving techniques.

• Possesses extensive knowledge of human resource practices and procedures, including the City ofGreat Falls Personnel Policy Manual and Collective Bargaining Agreement, to ensure actions arewithin established policies and procedures.

• Highly skilled planner, who understand organizing, prioritizing, and evaluating projects and programs

• Prepares reports memorandums, and other correspondence to departmental staff, ChiefOfficers, and City leaders.

• Applies information and data to provide justification and recommendations to embrace changes.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Ethical Conduct

• Stress Management/Composure

• Problem Solving/Analysis

• Communication Proficiency