Position Information

The City of Gearhart, Oregon is seeking a Division Chief of Training & Operations to help lead its fire department located along the popular northern Oregon coast. Proudly serving the community since 1906, the Gearhart Volunteer Fire Department serves a population of 5,000 from two stations across 28 square miles. The Department operates with a 2023 budget of $833,794, two FTEs (the Fire Chief and Division Chief), and 20 volunteers. The Department is an “All Hazards Agency” and responds to approximately 800 annual incidents. 

THE DIVISION CHIEF 

Reporting to the Fire Chief, the Division Chief operates as second in command within the Fire Department and assumes responsibilities in the absence of the Fire Chief. This position will lead and handle all aspects of the Department’s Training Division and will deal with all phases of emergency response and operations before and after calls for service.  

As Gearhart is an “all-hazard” response department, this will include such incidents as fire suppression, prevention, inspection, medical response, rescue, and emergency operations. This position also participates in fire prevention and inspection activities, equipment, and minor building maintenance, and will respond to community disaster situations, such as weather-related, natural disasters, acts of terrorism, and may be called upon to perform duties beyond those listed in the job description. 

The Division Chief is frequently required to fulfill operational duties as a firefighter. The Division Chief also assists in managing the intern and seasonal/part-time firefighter positions and volunteers. 

WHY APPLY 

Gearhart is a quaint and quiet beach community located along Highway 101, three miles north of the resort town of Seaside. Residents appreciate the small-town feel, slower pace, beautiful scenery, and abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation. Come live where everyone wants to visit and become part of the “Gearhart Fire-Family”—a close-knit team like no other agency around.