Chief at Central EMS – Fayetteville, Arkansas

EMS Chief – Job Description

Position Summary
The EMS Chief serves as the chief executive officer of the Washington County Regional Ambulance Authority – Central EMS. This position provides leadership, oversight, and strategic direction for all operational, administrative, clinical, and financial functions. The Chief ensures the delivery of high-quality emergency medical services, regulatory compliance, fiscal responsibility, and effective collaboration with public agencies and community stakeholders.Essential Duties & Responsibilities
1. Organizational Leadership

• Establishes strategic goals and objectives for the agency.
• Promotes a culture of professionalism, accountability, and teamwork.
• Leads command staff and fosters organizational effectiveness.

2. Operations Oversight

• Oversees day-to-day EMS operations and system readiness.
• Coordinates with hospitals, fire departments, law enforcement, and mutual-aid partners.
• Ensures efficient resource allocation to maintain a rapid and effective response.

3. Financial Management

• Develops and administers the annual operating and capital budgets.
• Ensures fiscal stewardship, accountability, and transparency.
• Oversees capital planning, procurement, and cost control measures.

4. Personnel & Workforce Development

• Directs recruitment, hiring, training, and professional development.
• Maintains compliance with labor laws, certifications, and organizational policies.
• Implements performance management and succession planning initiatives.

5. Regulatory Compliance & Quality Assurance

• Ensures compliance with state, federal, and local EMS regulations.
• Oversees quality assurance and improvement programs.
• Maintains agency readiness for inspections, audits, and accreditation reviews.

6. Community & Interagency Relations

• Serves as the agency’s official representative to government, media, hospitals, and community organizations.
• Communicates organizational priorities, operational updates, and public education initiatives.
• Participates in advisory boards, city/county meetings, and regional planning efforts.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in EMS Administration, Healthcare, Public Administration, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive EMS experience, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Current paramedic certification/licensure.
• Strong knowledge of EMS operations, finance, personnel management, and regulatory compliance.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Residency within forty (40) mile radius of Central EMS Station 1
• Executive experience within a multi-municipality/county ambulance authority

Working Conditions

• Regular office work with occasional exposure to emergency scenes.
• Attendance at public meetings and community events.
• Availability for after-hours incidents, operational emergencies, and special projects