Help wanted: Fire chief, city of Portland. Pay: Up to $164,000 a year.
Photo / Nicholas Gervin
The Portland Fire Department is looking to hire a new fire chief .
The city of Portland is looking to hire a fire chief to succeed Keith Gautreau when he retires by the end of this year.
The salary range for the position is between $129,633 and $164,244 annually, depending on skills and experience, and the city promises generous benefits, too.
With a workforce of 211 sworn personnel and a $22 million budget, Portland’s fire department is the largest in the state. As a member of the city’s leadership team, the fire chief also helps run Maine’s largest municipality.
The chief reports to one of two assistant city managers, and provides overall direction and leadership for the city’s fire department.
An 11-page brochure about the position posted online notes that the ideal candidate has proven leadership ability and excels in mentoring. The job description also touts Portland’s cobblestone streets, vibrant arts district and gourmet restaurants in a sales pitch to potential applicants.
'Healthier workforce' initiatives
Gautreau joined the Portland Fire Department in 1995 and has held every rank in the department since then, according to City Manager Danielle West.
“Since becoming chief, he has prioritized first responder mental health and developed a comprehensive mental health program that supports our staff in times of need and stress, leading to a healthier and more resilient workforce,” she said.
Under his leadership, West also noted, the department introduced higher standards for leadership and accountability, strengthened the fire prevention program, and developed effective methods to contain overtime expenses while optimizing staffing levels needed to maintain service.
"Portland is safer today because of Chief Gautreau's leadership, innovative ideas and dedication," she said.
The 240-year-old department responds to 5,250 fire service and 13,800 emergency calls annually. It has 10 stations, including an air rescue station at the Portland International Jetport and a station on Peaks Island.
Other services provided by the department include marine rescue; heavy rescue and hazmat response services; a fire prevention program and fire investigations; and a mobile medical outreach program to help people without shelter.
The department also houses the city’s emergency management program.
More information
The recruitment brochure can be found here, and qualified individuals may apply directly here.
An initial review of resumes is set to begin on Sept. 27.
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