Joint Fire Chief

Written By Kristina Abbey

The City of Dillon and Beaverhead County Fire District #2 are seeking a qualified and experienced Joint Fire Chief to lead fire protection and emergency response services for both jurisdictions. This position provides executive leadership, administrative oversight, and operational command for a combined City and Fire District fire service under an interlocal agreement.

The Fire Chief is a City of Dillon employee and serves concurrently as Fire Chief for Fire District #2.

Salary: Approximately $65,000-71,000

Location: Dillon, Montana

Benefits: Health Insurance, Vacation, Sick Leave, PERS

Position Summary

Under the general direction of the Mayor of Dillon and the Fire District #2 Board of Trustees, the Fire Chief plans, directs, and evaluates all fire department operations, including fire suppression, prevention, training, emergency response, and public education. The position ensures efficient service delivery, regulatory compliance, fiscal responsibility, and professional leadership of career and volunteer personnel.

Essential Responsibilities

  • Lead and manage all Fire Department operations for the City and Fire District #2

  • Establish and implement departmental policies, procedures, and operational standards

  • Develop, administer, and oversee departmental budgets and expenditures

  • Respond to and command major emergency incidents as required

  • Oversee fire investigations, fire code enforcement, inspections, and NFIRS reporting

  • Direct training, professional development, and discipline of department personnel

  • Coordinate with City, County, State, and other partner agencies

  • Prepare and present monthly and annual reports to governing bodies

  • Serve as liaison to elected officials, community members, and the public

  • Provide fire prevention education and outreach

  • Attend meetings, conferences, and training to maintain professional standards

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in fire science, public administration, or related field OR
    Seven (7) years of fire service experience, including three (3) years at Fire Lieutenant or higher

  • Completion of Fire Basic Training Academy or equivalent

  • Demonstrated leadership and management experience in the fire service

  • Valid Driver’s License with CDL and tanker endorsement (or ability to obtain upon hire)

  • Must be 21 years of age or older

  • Ability to pass a background check; no disqualifying criminal history

  • Strong communication, leadership, and decision-making skills

Veterans’ preference may apply.

Preferred Qualifications

  • CPR and AED certification

  • Prior fire department management or chief-level experience

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

Work is performed in office, vehicle, and emergency settings, often under stressful and hazardous conditions. The position requires the ability to lift up to 100 pounds occasionally and respond to emergencies during day or night hours, in all weather conditions.

The City of Dillon requires a completed Application and current resume, which will be accepted until the position is filled, can be returned to 125 N Idaho St, Dillon MT 59725 or emails to mayor@dillonmt.org. Interviews will occur as applications are received and reviewed.

Kristina Abbey
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