Fire Chief

Reports To: SVFD Board of Directors

Employment Type: Full-Time, Paid Position

SERVICE – TRADITION – COMMUNITY

The Shepherd Volunteer Fire Department (SVFD) has been proudly serving Shepherd Montana since 1968. We provide fire, rescue, and emergency medical services to a 527-square-mile suburban and rural area located just northeast of Billings, the state’s largest city.

Our district includes approximately 5,500 permanent residents, with increased call volume during the summer months and hunting season. SVFD also works closely with surrounding agencies through automatic aid agreements with two neighboring departments and mutual aid partnerships with eight additional departments. Through these collaborations, our members support emergency response for a regional population of nearly 240,000 people.

SVFD is a combination department made up of approximately 50 active members and 20 EMTs. We respond to around 500 calls for service each year, including structure fires, wildland fires, rescues, and medical emergencies. The department operates out of two fire stations and maintains an active, seasonal wildland fire program.

We are a team-oriented department committed to training, safety, and serving our community. SVFD offers members the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a growing community.

The Shepherd Volunteer Fire Department is looking for a qualified and dedicated Fire Chief to manage and oversee all departmental operations while leading a volunteer workforce. This position is responsible for protecting the Shepherd Fire Service Area through emergency response, administration, training, and coordination with partner agencies.

The Fire Chief reports to the SVFD Board of Directors in accordance with department bylaws. All disciplinary actions related to this position are handled by the Board of Directors.

• Salary: To be determined; negotiable DOE
• Paid Time Off (PTO): To be determined
• Other Benefits: To be determined

• Minimum of 40 hours per week
• Must respond to all major incidents or designate appropriate personnel
• Attendance required at all SVFD trainings, meetings, and major department activities
• Schedule may vary based on emergency response needs

The Fire Chief has full authority over department operations, including:

• Control of all apparatus, supplies, and equipment
• Authority over volunteer member permissions and probationary status
• Command authority over all incidents, trainings, and department activities
• Delegation of authority and responsibility as necessary
• Discretionary spending authority for day-to-day operations

• Support and lead the volunteer workforce in all operational and training activities
• Serve as the primary protector of life and property within the Shepherd Fire Service Area
• Respond to emergencies and function in a leadership role within the Incident Command System
• Develop, recommend, and implement department policies and ensure accountability
• Coordinate and oversee training programs and professional development
• Foster a positive, team-oriented work environment
• Ensure proper maintenance, organization, and availability of all department equipment, apparatus, and facilities
• Oversee training requirements and maintain accurate training and maintenance records
• Work collaboratively with members to establish SMART operational goals
• Keep the Board of Directors informed of department needs and operational status
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with neighboring fire departments, EMS, law enforcement, and county agencies
• Comply with and perform duties outlined in Montana State Code 7-33-2001
• Continually strive to improve the department’s ISO rating
• Wear an official Shepherd Fire Department uniform shirt while on duty

• Perform additional duties as assigned by the SVFD Board of Directors
• Current CPR Certification
• Basic Wildland Firefighter certification with annual refresher
• Completion of ICS 300 (minimum)
• Ability to sign and adhere to the SVFD Code of Conduct

• Extensive knowledge of fire department rules, regulations, and local geography
• Strong understanding of modern fire suppression and prevention practices
• Experience supervising fire apparatus and equipment maintenance
• Ability to assess emergencies, recognize hazards, and make sound decisions under pressure
• Ability to plan, assign, direct, and supervise emergency operations
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with personnel and partner agencies
• Proficiency with modern office and computer equipment
• Physical ability to perform the essential duties of a firefighter
• Knowledge of BLS emergency medical systems and the Montana EMS system

• The Fire Chief is issued an assigned command vehicle for work-related use only
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February 13th, 2026

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