Wauconda Fire District, IL – Fire Chief

• Daily operations fall under the direction of one Fire Chief and two Deputy Chiefs. Shift personnel are directed by three Battalion Chiefs and nine Lieutenants overseeing 3 Platoon Shifts, each 24 hours in length. Civilian personnel provide operational, administrative, and technical assistance. 
• The WFPD responds out of three fire stations staffed 24/7 by paid career Firefighter/EMT-Paramedics supported by a small pool of part-time personnel. 
• The WFPD operates 1 ALS Pumper/Squad, 2 ILS Pumpers, 1 Aerial Tower, 1 Water Tender, 1 Brush Truck, 1 Utility/Rehab Support Vehicle, 3 ALS Ambulances, 1 Water Rescue Boat, 4 Command Vehicles, 5 Pool/Utility Vehicles, 1 Reserve ILS Pumper, and 1 Reserve ALS Ambulance. 
• In addition, the WFPD houses, maintains, and operates regional response assets including a Unified Command & Communication Vehicle, Side Scan Underwater Sonar Unit, and a number of special equipment trailers.
• The department is a proud participating member with MABAS Division 4 and the Lake and McHenry County SRT. 
• The department has recently launched a complete Mobile Integrated Healthcare program with developing partnerships and will be very focused on the continuation of the success of that program.
• In 2024 WFPD responded to over 4500 calls for service. The department has an ISO Class 3 rating.

• An experienced engaged and collaborative fire/EMS leader with a strong background in modern fire, EMS, emergency management and demonstrated managerial, interpersonal, and customer service skills.
• A strong communicator with all facets of a modern fire/EMS provider with a manageable structure.
• An individual committed to the process of continuous improvement through study, data analysis, risk taking, and follow through with a focus on Community Risk Reduction.
• A genuine confidence and approachability to residents, business, visitors, and local governmental leaders featuring persuasive communication skills.
• The ability to mentor and foster leadership roles within the staff, succession planning, and a global vision of the community’ needs are critical. Creativity and the ability to guide and balance change is necessary.
• Demonstrated experience in labor-relations, preferably in a collective bargaining environment.
• Strong budget skills supported by conservative fiscal management (Fire Protection District experience is a plus).
• Ability to tactfully and professionally direct subordinates, develop organizational and employee goals and objectives, to measure organizational success, and professionally evaluate employee performance.
• The ability to develop strong relationships with surrounding Fire/EMS agencies supporting regional response planning and programs, including the continued marketing and planning for the growth of the MIH program.

• Bachelor’s Degree in fire science management, public administration or equivalent. Master’s degree a plus.
• IL OSFM Fire Officer III or Advance Fire Officer certification (or equivalent). EFO and CFO a plus.
• IL OSFM Incident Safety Officer (or equivalent). ICS complaints include ICS 100, 200, 300, 400 and 700. 
• 8 years of progressive experience as a fire officer. 
• Must possess a valid state driver’s license from state of residency at time of appointment.

Posted: 2024-09-26