Fire Chief Position

Reporting to the Town Manager, the Fire Chief is accountable for all administrative functions within the department, representing the department at both the Town and County levels, overseeing strategic development, and managing personnel.

The ideal Fire Chief will be an approachable leader with effective communication skills and an ability to guide the department’s daily operations and nurture relationships with stakeholders. The successful candidate will prioritize ongoing training and professional development for the department while upholding high standards of excellence.

Desired Qualifications

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a degree in fire science, public administration, or a related field, along with at least five years of increasingly responsible experience as a career chief officer; or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.

• ·         Experience as a career Chief Officer
• ·         Valid Driver’s License
• ·         IFSAC/Proboard Firefighter II
• ·         NC OSFM Chief 101
• ·         National Registered/State Emergency Medical Technician
• ·         IFSAC/Proboard Fire Officer IV
• ·         NIMS ICS 100, 200, 300, 400, 700, and 800
• ·         Advanced courses and seminars in fire administration and management

Compensation Package

The hiring range for the Fire Chief position is between $99,379 and $119,255, contingent on qualifications and experience, and subject to negotiation. The Town provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental and vision insurance, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance, membership in the North Carolina Local Government Employees Retirement System, 401k contribution matching, paid vacation and sick leave, paid holidays, paid maternity/paternity leave, paid bereavement leave, and paid gym membership.

Application Process

Job posted on January 29, 2026, and position is open until filled. The first review of applications will be during the week of February 16, so interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply no later than February 15.