Located in the south-central region of B.C., the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) covers an area over 10,400 km² and is renowned for its orchards, vineyards and golf courses, as well as its widely varied landscape including deserts, mountains and valleys, pristine lakes and outdoor recreational opportunities.

The RDOS is seeking an exempt, full-time, Manager of Regional Fire Services to join our Protective Services team. This position reports to the Senior Manager of Protective Services and is responsible for leading, planning, and evaluating fire service operations across the region in alignment with applicable legislation, bylaws, regulations, policies and strategic objectives. This role provides leadership, coordination, and operational oversight to the rural volunteer fire departments, ensuring compliance with fire safety standards, readiness for emergency response, and the protection of life, property and the environment.  

Responsibilities:

• Leads the Fire Services Division and manages the resources required to implement policies, programs, and projects approved by the Senior Manager of Protective Services.
• Provides strategic, operational, and administrative support to rural Fire Chiefs and facilitates interdepartmental cooperation and mutual aid partnerships.
• Establishes short and long‑term strategic plans to guide fire service operations and continuous improvement across all rural fire departments.
• Collaborates with rural Fire Chiefs to develop and implement firefighter training standards, ensuring compliance with BC Structure Firefighter Minimum Training Standards.
• Develops, updates, and maintains Standard Operating Guidelines (SOGs), risk assessments, and code compliance practices to promote consistent application of provincial and federal fire safety regulations.
• Manages fire inspections and investigations in the region and works collaboratively with Fire Chiefs, Planning and Building Inspection staff.
• Conducts post‑incident reviews of major events and provides strategic oversight to promote standardized response protocols.
• Coordinates regional fire prevention initiatives and public education programs to enhance community safety and awareness.
• Works with Fire Chiefs to develop and manage asset management programs for fire apparatus, equipment, and facilities within each Fire Service Area.
• Leads procurement and resource allocation and oversees maintenance programs, equipment replacement planning, and lifecycle tracking for all assets.
• Prepares, manages, and monitors Fire Services Division annual operating and capital budgets.
• Works with the Manager of Procurement to ensure consistent adherence to procurement policies.
• Identifies and pursues grant funding opportunities and provides recommendations to the Senior Manager of Protective Services.
• In collaboration with the Fire Chiefs, recruits, hires, coaches, supervises, and evaluates staff within the Fire Services Division.
• Ensures all employees are informed of known and reasonably foreseeable workplace hazards and comply with the Regional District’s Occupational Health & Safety Program and WorkSafeBC requirements.
• Participates as a member of the Emergency Management Team and supports management of the 9‑1‑1 system.
• Performs additional related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

• Extensive knowledge of legislation, regulations, bylaws, and Fire Underwriters Survey related to fire service management, investigations, inspections, prevention practices, and rural fire service delivery.
• Strong operational and strategic leadership abilities, with knowledge of current and emerging trends in fire service management and training.
• Exceptional organizational and administrative skills to ensure efficient divisional operations.
• Working knowledge of BC Wildfire Service Memorandum of Agreement for Inter-Agency Operational Procedures and Reimbursement Rates.
• Working knowledge of NFPA 1720 - VFD Organizational and Deployment Standards.
• Ability to build effective relationships and communicate professionally with government agencies, community partners, and internal departments.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare reports and deliver presentations.
• Effective conflict resolution skills with the ability to address diverse stakeholder needs.
• Understanding of regional geography and environmental considerations impacting fire service operations.
• Demonstrated tact, discretion, integrity, and sound judgment in managing sensitive issues.
• Working knowledge of labour relations practices and principles.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making capabilities.
• Ability to delegate effectively and manage staff performance.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, and participate in the duty officer rotation. 

Qualifications:

• Post-secondary education in Fire Science, Emergency Management, Public Administration, or related field from an accredited institution. A combination of education and experience may be considered.
• NFPA 1033 - Fire Investigation I and NFPA 1030- Fire Inspection I.
• NFPA 1020 - Fire Officer III, Fire Service Instructor II, Incident Command System 300.
• Minimum five (5) years experience in a related role, preferably in municipal and/or regional government.
• Progressive experience in leadership roles including senior operational roles within a fire service.
• Completion of the WorkSafeBC Supervising for Safety training.
• Ability to pass and maintain a criminal record check.
• Valid Class 5 BC Driver’s Licence. 

The annual salary range for this position is $105,389 - $122,174 (2025 rate) and includes an excellent benefits and pension package. This position is also eligible to participate in the flex day work schedule.

Application Deadline: 

4:00 pm, Friday, March 6th, 2026

Scroll down to apply:

https://scouterecruit.net/jobs/EXT2614

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted. This position is only open to those legally entitled to work in Canada.