Division Chief of Special Operations

Step into a leadership role where strategy, expertise, and high-stakes decision-making come together.

As the Division Chief of Special Operations
, you’ll be at the forefront of the Fire Department’s most complex and challenging responses—guiding specialized teams, shaping operational readiness, and ensuring our department is prepared for anything. Reporting directly to the Assistant Fire Chief of Emergency Services, this senior leadership role oversees the planning, coordination, and evaluation of all special operations, balancing big-picture vision with hands‑on leadership when it matters most.

If you thrive in dynamic environments, lead with confidence, and are driven by excellence in emergency response, this role offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact on public safety and departmental success. This at‑will position works under general direction and plays a critical role in protecting our community when the call is anything but routine.

WHY WORK FOR THE CITY OF BOISE?

Top talent deserves top‑notch benefits. The City is among the best in the Treasure Valley when it comes to the benefits and perks we offer our employees.

• ZERO premium medical coverage option for you and your family
• PERSI retirement benefits plus 401(k)/457b with employer match
• 10 hours vacation per month (increases with tenure) + 12 paid holidays + 8 hours sick leave per month
• 10 weeks Parental Leave
• Up to $500 annual Well Being incentive
• Tuition reimbursement and free local bus pass
• Basic Life and Long Term Disability insurance at no cost

• Supervises the work of professional, management, technical and/or other employees of a clearly delineated division or exercises independent authority over a critical function with citywide impact directly or through subordinate supervisors to ensure adequate resources are available for staff to perform their duties; ensures that assigned operations and activities comply with organization goals and objectives; and directs actions and results of major processes and programs and maintains controlling budget authority.
• Directs and supervises special operations units, including but not limited to technical rescue, hazardous materials response, airport response, water rescue, and other specialized teams. Participates as a member of the departmental senior leadership. Briefs the chief and command staff on the operations of the department’s special teams.
• Serves as a key decision-maker and incident commander during complex emergencies, providing strategic direction and tactical guidance to ensure safe and efficient operations. Oversees all inspections for which specialty teams are responsible. Conducts cause determination investigations with the National Transportation and Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and analyzes incidents to improve procedures. Acts as a liaison with local, regional, state, and federal agencies.
• Develops and maintains emergency response plans, protocols, and standard operating procedures for special operations scenarios, conducting drills and exercises to evaluate readiness and identify areas for improvement. Assess risks associated with special operations activities and develop mitigation strategies to minimize potential hazards to personnel, the public, and the environment. Acts as a liaison with local, regional, state, and federal agencies in training for response.
• Develops and implements strategic plans for special operations, aligning with the department's mission, goals, and objectives. Develops and enforces policies, procedures, and protocols related to special operations, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations and industry best practices.
• Fosters partnerships and collaboration with external agencies, including law enforcement, emergency medical services, government agencies, and community organizations, to enhance response capabilities and promote interagency cooperation. Develops relationships and coordinates contracts with surrounding counties. Represents the city at local, interagency, and statewide meetings. Attends public speaking and community events as a spokesperson for the department.
• Manages resources,…