Assistant Chief of Support Services

About the Department

Under the direction of the Fire Chief, the Assistant Chief – Support Services is responsible for overseeing Great Falls Fire Rescue (GFFR) fire and rescue training program, buildings and grounds, fleet maintenance and equipment, the GFFR/State hazardous materials team and technical rescue teams and assists with the hiring and promotional processes. The Assistant Chief – Support Services is responsible for all aspects of the day-to-day administration and operation of support services for GFFR, which is an integral part of GFFR’s operations. 

Position Duties

• Develop rules, policies and procedures for GFFR support services 
• Participates in the daily operations and activities of the Support Services division including presenting official reports to GFFRs senior staff, city management, city commission and interested stakeholders.
• Assists the Fire Chief in the development of annual and long-range revenue and expenditure projections for GFFR.
• Oversees the Battalion Chiefs and shift training officers with establishing and evaluating a comprehensive emergency service training and education program. In conjunction with the Assistant Chief of Operations, the AC of Support Services supervises and directs the GFFR Battalion Chiefs and shift training officers in the development, evaluation, and implementation of training programs within the department.
• Analyzes workloads, processes and functions to make recommendations for and/or implement necessary improvements; coordinate development, updating, and quality control of support services, policies and procedures.
• Provides leadership and oversight to departmental personnel, including both operational and administrative support staff. Engages in continuous employee development through coaching and guidance to foster a productive and collaborative work environment. 
• Directs the preparation of the support services division budget and manages expenditures including procurement, utilization, and maintenance of fire prevention related equipment.
• Analyzes systems and recommends improvements to existing facilities, equipment, and apparatus.  May serves as project manager for capital projects to ensure they are carried out in an effective and timely manner.
• Manage and advise staff on external agreements and contracts including obligations and expiration of those contracts and agreements.
• Monitor and address issues related to facility maintenance, equipment upkeep, and critical infrastructure.
• Plan and provide general oversight of the acquisition, utilization, repair and replacement of all department vehicles and power equipment. Oversee and work with the City fleet manager on the scope and cost of bid specifications for vehicle and equipment to be purchased.   
• Clearly communicate across divisions and departments the progress and expectation of each program.
• Research and prepare technical and administrative reports and correspondence concerning projects, services and contracts. Review and edit reports of assigned staff. 
• Maintains administrative oversight of regional fire service and related operations including the regional Technical Rescue and Hazmat Teams. Serves as a member of the Montana Fire Service Testing Consortium.
• Oversees and directs the writing of hazardous materials team grants as part of the State Hazardous Materials program.   Manages the Regional Hazmat program.
• Directs and oversees the GFFR hiring and promotional processes
• Supervises support services staff and programs by providing leadership, training, direction and communication regarding work assignments, services and operations. Oversee daily operations and activities and monitor and review progress on assignments, projects, repairs, contracts, and training requirements.
• Ensures compliance with OSHA, NFPA, and other regulatory standards for equipment and training.
• Establishes and maintains effective relationships with City, County, State and Federal agencies, and other groups regarding special projects and programs at GFFR. 
• Maintains, develops, and provides leadership for a risk management program, using injury on duty statistical data, so that injuries and property damage accidents are reduced by applying risk management concepts, occupational hazards analysis.
• Evaluates current employee/management relations and initiates the development of a process that supports a positive and participative employee/management program.  Participates in Labor Management Committee, Promotional Committee, and Safety Committee.
• Maintains a respectful, productive, and effective working relationship with union representatives; staff, elected officials, city departments, outside agencies, and the public.
• Writes grants or researches funding opportunities when necessary.
• Actively participates and is a cohesive member of the GFFR leadership team; provides thoughts and ideas in the development of the GFFR strategic goals.
• Assists City Leadership with administration, technical support, and planning of the City’s emergency operations plans.
• Assists in the development, implementation and communication of department goals, objectives, policies and procedures. 
• Serves as Acting Fire Chief in the absence of the Fire Chief and Assistant Chief’s. May serve as the On-Scene Incident Commander in the absence of a higher ranking Fire Officer.
• Provides logistical support for large-scale incidents, disaster response, and department initiatives.
• Assists the Fire Chief and City Management with recommendations for changes to GFFR policies and procedures to comply with federal and state laws and regulations.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
The Assistant Chief of Support Services oversees Battalion Chiefs, Company Officers, support services staff, and contractors working at Great Falls Fire Rescue (GFFR). This role ensures effective coordination among teams and maintains operational efficiency. Additionally, the Assistant Chief may serve as Acting Fire Chief when the Fire Chief or other Assistant Chiefs are unavailable, providing leadership and continuity in command.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent plus six months to one year of advanced study or training in a specific vocational, administrative, or technical nature is required.
• Training, education and experience equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in fire science, human resources, accounting, or a related field preferred, a master’s degree is desired. 
• Ten years of progressively responsible fire service experience as an officer in a position of supervisory capacity.

NECESSARY SPECIAL QUALIFICAITON

• Completed ICS 100, 200, 300; National Incident Management 700 & 800.
• Possession of a valid Montana driver’s license.

Other Qualifications

• 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 of Great Falls Personnel Policy Manual and Collective Bargaining Agreement, to ensure actions are within 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, Chief Officers, 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

Provides essential municipal services to the Great Falls community.