Job Description

The Fire Department

The Inman, SC Fire Department is a cornerstone of public safety in the community, providing comprehensive emergency services that include:

• Fire suppression and prevention
• Emergency medical response
• Hazardous materials response
• Code enforcement and inspections
• Community education and outreach

Our fire department is equipped with modern apparatus and a dedicated team committed to protecting the community. Current resources include multiple fire engines, specialized equipment, and a ladder truck to support advanced fire and rescue operations. The department is strategically located near the Saluda Grade Trail, giving our team access to diverse response environments.

Leadership includes a Fire Chief, an Assistant Chief, a Captain, and 17 part-time firefighters, with plans to expand the team by 2026–2027, adding four additional firefighters, further strengthening our coverage and service capacity. With increasing demands driven by population and business growth, the Fire Department is focused on building capacity, expanding training, and maintaining operational readiness to meet the evolving needs of the community.

The Position:

The Fire Chief serves as the executive leader of the Inman Fire Department and a key member of the City’s leadership team. Reporting directly to the City Administrator, the Fire Chief is responsible for overall departmental strategy, operations, and personnel management.

This role requires a leader who is both visionary and hands-on: able to set long-term direction while providing steady leadership during emergency incidents. The Fire Chief will also serve as a visible and trusted figure in the community, working closely with residents, civic organizations, and regional partners to ensure public safety and preparedness.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Developing and executing strategic plans, policies, and objectives for the Fire Department.
• Directing fire suppression, prevention, and emergency medical operations.
• Managing departmental budgets, capital planning, and resource allocation.
• Leading, mentoring, and developing a team of professional and volunteer firefighters.
• Overseeing training, performance evaluation, and professional development programs.
• Ensuring compliance with all national, state, and local fire codes and regulations.
• Building strong partnerships with City Council, the City Administrator, community organizations, and regional fire agencies.
• Serving as the department’s spokesperson and representative at public meetings, events, and interagency collaborations.

The Ideal Candidate:

The next Fire Chief of Inman will be a respected, forward-thinking leader with a proven ability to inspire confidence at all levels, from City leadership to front-line firefighters, to community stakeholders.

Key Attributes:

• Strategic Leader – capable of modernizing operations and anticipating the future needs of a growing city.
• Strong Communicator – effective in council chambers, command centers, and community gatherings.
• Decisive Commander – calm and confident in managing high-stakes incidents.
• Mentor & Developer – committed to training and preparing the next generation of leaders.
• Community Partner – visible, approachable, and invested in strengthening trust with residents.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Fire Science, Fire Administration, Public Administration, or related field (or an equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Ten (10) years of progressive fire service experience, with at least five (5) years in a command role (Captain or higher).
• Certified Fire Marshal in the State of South Carolina.
• NFPA/Pro Board Firefighter II and Fire Officer II certifications.
• Successful completion of NIMS IS-100, 200, 700 & 800, and ICS 300 & 400 courses.
• Valid South Carolina Class E driver’s license.

Compensation & Benefits:

The City of Inman offers competitive executive compensation and benefits package commensurate with experience and qualifications. Benefits include participation in the South Carolina Retirement System, health insurance, paid time off, and additional executive benefits.

The Recruitment Process

Qualified candidates are invited to apply by submitting a cover letter , résumé , and references via the application link.

Application Deadline : September 30, 2025 (11:59PM)

Preliminary Interviews : October 2025

Final Candidate Interviews : November 2025

This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a respected department, strengthen public safety, and shape the future of a growing community.

About The City of Inman:

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the City of Inman offers the best of both worlds: small-town charm with direct access to the cultural, business, and recreational opportunities of the Upstate region. Just minutes from Spartanburg and a short drive to Greenville and Asheville, Inman has emerged as one of the most attractive destinations for families, professionals, and businesses seeking a vibrant and welcoming community.

Inman is experiencing exciting growth; from a revitalized downtown filled with local shops and restaurants to new residential neighborhoods and community investments. Despite this growth, Inman remains rooted in the values of safety, service, and community spirit that have long defined the city.

As Inman continues to evolve, so too does its commitment to strong, visionary leadership in public safety. The next Fire Chief will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of emergency services in a city that deeply values its first responders.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: The City of Inman is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status under applicable federal, state, or local law. The City of Inman values diversity and is dedicated to fostering an inclusive, equitable workplace where all individuals can thrive.

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