Fire/EMS Chief
Town of Buchanan, WI
Located in the third-largest metro area in Wisconsin, the Fox Cities, the Town of Buchanan is seeking a highly motivated, forward-thinking, and qualified leader to serve as its next Fire and EMS Chief. Buchanan is a growing community with a rich history and bright future. Buchanan boasts robust commercial areas, rural lands, farms, and urbanized subdivisions. The Town is committed to providing exceptional fire protection and emergency medical services to its residents (current population of 6,817).
Responsible for the daily and long-term operations of the Fire Department and Emergency Medical Service, the Fire/EMS Chief reports directly to the Town Administrator and works collaboratively with the Town Board. As a key member of the Town leadership team, the Fire/EMS Chief works closely with community stakeholders to ensure responsive, high-quality public safety services that reflect the Town's mission and values. The Fire/EMS Chief establishes and implements departmental goals and objectives. Responsibilities include preparing the annual budget and maintaining sound fiscal practices; overseeing Fire and EMS operations; maintaining strong community and intergovernmental relations; coordinating labor relations and human resources; developing fire safety standards; and developing and managing grants. With a special emphasis on maintaining a positive workplace culture and a commitment to continuous improvement, the Fire/EMS Chief oversees personnel training and development and makes recommendations on hiring, promotion, and discipline. While the position is primarily administrative, the Fire/EMS Chief responds to calls when a high-level command presence is needed.
Qualifications Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in fire science, public administration, business administration, or a closely related field is preferred. A high school diploma or GED equivalent is required.
- A minimum of three (3) years of firefighting, safety, and risk management experience in a professional firefighter position.
- Two (2) years of progressive experience in a supervisory or higher command position.
- Licensable at the EMT Basic Level in Wisconsin.
- Possess Wisconsin Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Driver/Operator, and Fire Officer certifications.
- Valid state Motor Vehicle Operator’s license and acceptable driving record.
- National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Program preferred.
Town residency is not required; however, the ability to timely respond to emergencies is required (residency within a fifteen-mile radius of the Town borders).
Salary Hiring Range-$35,568-$41,714 Annually (Average of 20 Hours Per Week)
Visit the community website at www.townofbuchanan.org. The Buchanan Fire/EMS Chief Position Profile is available on the Public Administration Associates Website: www.public-administration.com.
Send cover letter, resume, and five work-related references to Public Administration Associates, LLC, Attn: Jim Austad, Associate; e-mail jamesaustadllc@gmail.com; phone 920-379-8036, by February 20, 2026. Confidentiality must be requested by the applicant and cannot be guaranteed for finalists.