Fire Chief

The Town of Wells seeks qualified candidates for an energetic and creative Fire Chief to continue to lead our Fire Department into the future. The Town of Wells is a beautiful coastal town located 25 miles south of Portland, Maine and 25 miles north of Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Our year-round population of approximately 12,000 increases significantly during the summer months, reaching an estimated population of 40,000 – 45,000. We are located adjacent to Interstate 95, and close to several airports. For more information about the Town of Wells, visit our website (www.wellstown.org).

The Fire Chief position requires a strategic and innovative person to manage a thriving department consisting of 2 stations, 1 Assistant Chief, 4 full-time Captains, 12 full-time firefighters, 1 full-time administrative assistants and call force employees. The Fire Chief is responsible for protecting the welfare of Wells citizens and its visitors, and for providing mutual aid support through the effective management of a progressive fire and emergency delivery system. The Fire Chief also serves as the Town’s Emergency Management Director unless otherwise determined. Fire personnel respond to approximately 2,000 calls per year within the Town’s 73 square miles (57 land area and 16 water area).

Position Requirements

(A) Bachelor’s Degree in fire prevention, fire administration, management, or closely related field highly desirable.

(B) Firefighter II certification or higher required and EMS License preferred.

(C) Minimum of ten (10) years of progressive responsible firefighting and emergency services experience.

(D) Minimum of five (5) years of supervisory experience in the fire service.

(E) Valid State of MaineClass C or higher Driver’s License.

(F) Supplemental specialized instruction, i.e., fire prevention, firefighting, hazmat, fire inspection, and National Fire Academy.

(G) Ability to reside within a reasonable distance as determined by the appointing authority, within 6 months of hire.

(H) Ability to perform the essential functions of the position and complete all conditions of hire, or

(I) Any equivalent combination of training and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.

Compensation & Benefits

This is a full-time, exempt position with a starting salary within the pay range of $110,000 - $150,000/year, commensurate with demonstrated knowledge, skills, abilities, and work experience. The Town of Wells offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability (income protection), retirement, paid sick and vacation, and other supplemental benefits.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must submit a resume, cover letter, three professional references and employment application to meet application requirements. Please submit required and any supplemental application materials to the Labor and Employee Relations Office by email to employment@wellstown.org or by physical mail to the Town of Wells at, 208 Sanford Road, Wells ME, 04090.

View the job description and employment application on the Town’s Website under Employment Opportunities.

The position will remain open until it is filled; however, application review starts on May 26, 2026.

The Town of Wells is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, religion, age, and any other characteristics protected by law.

Pay: $110,000.00 - $150,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 457(b)
• Dental insurance
• Dependent health insurance coverage
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $110,000 - $150,000