State Fire Marshal

Overview

The Missouri Department of Public Safety is seeking an experienced professional to serve as the Director and State Fire Marshal of the Division of Fire Safety. This leadership position entails managing statewide fire safety operations including emergency personnel training, fire data systems, investigations, and compliance inspections. The role provides a critical platform to influence fire prevention and public safety efforts across Missouri.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all functions of the Division of Fire Safety as mandated by law or direction from the Department of Public Safety Director or the Missouri Governor.
• Oversee finances, human resources, and overall operations within the division.
• Develop and deliver voluntary training programs for firefighters, investigators, inspectors, and emergency responders relating to fire safety, rescue, preparedness, fireworks, and fire-compliant cigarettes.
• Create and maintain a comprehensive statewide fire reporting system documenting all fires occurring in Missouri, meeting statutory requirements.
• Establish and maintain a voluntary fire safety training and certification program aligned with recognized national standards.
• Use regulatory authority to issue rules as authorized to fulfill statutory fire safety responsibilities.
• Supervise large-scale or critical fire investigations involving significant loss of life or major incidents.
• Act as a liaison among state agencies, local governments, and private entities to coordinate fire safety protocols and emergency preparedness.
• Represent Missouri at regional and national forums, interagency meetings, and community events regarding fire safety and prevention.
• Advise Department leadership on legislation affecting fire prevention, safety, arson control, training, elevator and amusement ride safety, boiler and pressure vessel safety, fireworks, and cigarette safety compliance.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong familiarity with Missouri fire laws and regulations, including arson and explosives statutes.
• Comprehensive understanding of fire service functions such as fire investigation, criminal inquiry, prevention, and public education.
• Experience with both career and volunteer fire service structures and law enforcement operations.
• Proficient in personnel leadership, supervision, performance evaluation, and staff training.
• Ability to direct investigative efforts and produce accurate, standards-compliant reports.
• Effective collaboration skills to work with diverse groups and stakeholders.

Required Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship is mandatory.
• Must have resided and paid taxes in Missouri for a minimum of three consecutive years prior to appointment and be tax compliant upon appointment.
• Hold and maintain a valid Missouri driver's license and possess the ability to drive.
• Willingness to travel both same day and overnight as required.
• At least ten years of experience in fire protection, prevention, or investigation in state, municipal, military, or industrial contexts.
• Demonstrated administrative experience in collecting facts and preparing detailed investigative reports.

Additional Information

The Missouri Division of Fire Safety regulates fire investigations, inspections, elevator and amusement ride safety, boiler and pressure vessel safety, and certification of firefighters, serving over 25,000 firefighters statewide. Education beyond high school, while beneficial, is not a requirement and will not be the sole factor in applicant evaluation.

This role offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, as well as an excellent benefits package including a defined pension plan, generous leave and holidays, and eligibility for health insurance coverage. Additional pay differentials may be available based on shift work, security duties, or years of service but do not increase base pay.

The Missouri Department of Public Safety is committed to equal opportunity. Applicants with limited English proficiency or requiring accommodations may contact the department's human resources for assistance.