Regional Fire Chief

Overview

The Thompson-Nicola Regional District is located in south-central British Columbia, with dozens rural and urban communities spread across 44,300 square kilometres. The TNRD provides more than 120 local government services to approximately 144,000 people in 10 Electoral Areas, 11 member municipalities, and 25 First Nations.

The TNRD is headquartered in the City of Kamloops, the largest community within the regional district. The Thompson-Nicola region has a vast range of climates that experience true four-season weather, with plenty of year-round sunshine, little rain, and warm summers. Residents generally have short commutes, easy access to recreation and the outdoors, and a high quality of life. The TNRD acknowledges that we are located within the unceded, ancestral lands of the Nlaka’pumux, Secwépemc, St’at’imc, and Syilx Nations.

Reporting to the General Manager of Operations, the Regional Fire Chief is responsible for the oversight and management of all TNRD fire protection areas which includes nine (9) TNRD administered fire departments and six (6) fire service agreement areas (contracts with member municipalities). They are responsible to ensure fire protection standards are met within all TNRD service areas. They oversee and lead the TNRD fire chiefs and works closely with the chiefs and administration from member municipalities.

The Regional Fire Chief administers the regional 911 service, ensuring both primary and Secondary Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) are maintained. They also oversee a region wide Fire Smart program which includes full time and seasonal staff. They also support the fire protection service establishment processes as required.

As a member of the management team, will also be responsible for:

• Lead staff team providing mentorship and guidance
• Create and present Board and committee reports, as required
• Coordinate and present at public meetings
• Oversight of all department budgets and ensure operations adhere to TNRD financial policies

Required

Education and Experience:

• Completion of an undergraduate degree and/or NFPA 1021 Fire Officer Certificate or equivalent
• Minimum of eight (8) years of experience in Fire Protection Services, including leadership experience
• Experience working in public sector or local government (regional district experience an asset)
• A valid Class 5 Drivers Licence is required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Strong leadership skills, including coaching, developing, and motivating team members to achieve high performance and shared goals.
• Technical knowledge of Firefighting techniques, operations, and equipment
• Strong understanding of small community fire fighting techniques
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, analyze financial performance, and provide data‑driven recommendations to optimize spending
• Proficient using computers/devices and ability to learn new systems/technology
• General understanding of Local Government Act and other legislation governing regional districts
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, Board members and the public with tact and diplomacy
• Demonstrated skills in effectively managing contracts and projects, adhering to established budgets and ensuring compliance with any applicable legislation
• Skills in oral and written communication/presentation, especially the ability to prepare written and make oral presentations and technical reports
• Familiar with of Emergency Management in BC including Incident Command System (ICS)
• Organized, problem solving abilities, and critical thinker
• Ability to pay attention to detail and exercise consistent judgment in dealing with a variety complex challenges
• Ability to work on a number of projects simultaneously, establish priorities, and meet deadlines
• Ability to understand contract language and implement short- and long-range plans of the Regional District as they relate to projects

Applicants who wish to be assessed on equivalency must clearly outline how their background meets or exceeds the knowledge and competencies gained through the required credential. Please provide a brief written explanation within your…