Fire Chief - Mills River

JOB Please Apply by April 19th, 2026The Mills River Fire Department in Henderson County, NC – just southeast of Asheville, NC, seeks an experienced fire service professional to serve as its next Fire Chief.The combination fire department of approximately 55 volunteers, 11 career members, and 23 part-time staff maintains an ISO Class 3/9E rating. It provides professional fire suppression, first response emergency medical, light rescue, hazardous materials, and fire prevention services. With a rapidly growing fire district of approximately 67 square miles, the fire department provides services to rural and suburban areas and responds to approximately 1,700 calls annually. The department currently operates four (4) fire stations. EXAMPLE OF DUTIES The Mills River Fire Department, an independent private, non-profit organization, via contract serves the Town of Mills River and the Henderson County area surrounding the town. The department desires a professional who has demonstrated experience in leading a combination fire department, working with volunteer duty crews and utilizing fire service best practices in staff recruitment, retention, succession planning, and acquisition and access to equipment, technology, and training. Experience in working with community target hazards is also important. Within the Mills River Fire District, target hazards include multiple manufacturing facilities, public-school facilities, Pisgah National Forest and adjoins the Asheville Regional Airport. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION Salary and Benefits: The hiring range for the position is $110,000 - $150,000, depending on qualifications and experience. Although not a part of local government, the Mills River Fire Department offers a comprehensive benefits package that includesemployer-paid health, dental, and vision, with the ability to purchase family coverage. Additional benefits are also provided.To apply, please visit https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/developmentalassociates and click on the Fire Chief –Mills River Fire Department, NC title.All applications must be submitted online via the Developmental Associates application portal (link above) – NOT the department’s employment application portal or any other external website.Resumes and cover letters must be uploaded with the application.Applicants should apply by April 19, 2026.Successful semi-finalists will be invited to participate in initial interviews in late April/early May 2026.Direct inquiries to Chief Scott Burnette: SBurnette@mrfd.org.The recruitment and selection process is facilitated by North Carolina Fire Chief Consulting.North Carolina Fire Chief Consulting is managing the recruitment and selection process for this position.