What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Fire Chief of Operations position at City of Hiawatha?
Job Summary
The Department: Hiawatha Fire Department (HFD) is a progressive growing combination department that is looking for additional staffing due to increase service demand. HFD responds to fires, motor vehicle accidents, 911 and interfacility advanced life support transport to more than 12,000 people in the Hiawatha, Palo, and Shellsburg area. HFD is staffed with a full-time Chief and one Deputy Chief, eight full-time Fire-Medics or Paramedics, three part-time Fire-Medics, and more than 40 volunteer members. The Department opened its second station in the Fall of 2024 and is in the planning process of a training center and remodel of station one.
Starting Range of Pay: $83,000 to $103,000 depending on qualifications.
The Job: The Assistant Chief of Operations protects life and property by providing leadership at both emergency and non-emergency fire department activities. Functions as the Operations Officer and as the Health and Safety Officer for the Fire Department. Plans and assists with the day-to-day operation of the department and leads the department's fire training program. Oversees the department Health, Safety and Risk management plan as necessary to provide a safe workplace. Assumes operational responsibilities of the department in the absence of the Fire Chief.
The Candidate: Minimum five years of experience in fire service. Minimum three years of experience as a fire officer including fire ground command, EMS, training program development and coordination experience in a similar department. Associates degree in fire science or equivalent training and experience. Bachelor’s degree preferred. Possess or obtain within two years, Fire Officer I certification. Possess or obtain within two years, Fire Inspector I certification. Possess Firefighter II certification. Possess and maintain a Hazardous Materials – Operations Level certification. Possess Fire Instructor I and/or Emergency Medical Services Instructor. Additional fire certifications may be required within one year of hire. Full qualification requirements are included in the job description.
The Hours: This is a salary position. The incumbent generally works a daytime shift; however, they are expected to be available for call, including off hours, evenings, nights, holidays and weekends. They will be expected to perform a significant portion of their duties outside a standard work week.
How to Apply
Submit a Hiawatha Employment Application online.
Paper applications are also available at the City of Hiawatha City Hall (101 Emmons Street, Hiawatha, IA 52233) or can be requested at 319-393-1515. A current job description is available on request.
Accepting applications through December 23, 2025, send applications to the City of Hiawatha City Hall, City Clerks Office,101 Emmons Street, Hiawatha, IA 52233.
Candidates who have previously submitted applications with the City of Hiawatha or Hiawatha Fire Department MUST RESUBMIT AN APPLICATION DURING THE CURRENT APPLICATION PERIOD.
Assistant Chief of Operations
No additional documents provided.
Salary : $83,000 - $103,000