The Community:
Coldstream is a vibrant, family-friendly community in the beautiful North Okanagan. It is nestled in the Coldstream Valley, an area known for its agricultural activities, breathtaking views and endless outdoor and recreation amenities. The location allows for a quality lifestyle that is second to none – with quick and easy access to all necessary amenities. With a stable population of over 11,700, it’s the second largest municipality within the North Okanagan Regional District.
The Position:
We are seeking an experienced and community-minded professional to join the District of Coldstream as our Protective Services Manager. This exempt, full-time leadership position is ideal for a strong administrator with a background in fire services, emergency management, and team leadership.
Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, the Protective Services Manager is responsible for the leadership and oversight of the District’s Paid-On-Call Fire Department, operating from two fire halls and supported by approximately 50 personnel, including two Paid-On-Call Fire Chiefs. The role serves as the District’s fire inspector and lead fire investigator, oversees the Emergency Operations and Response Plan, and assumes a key leadership role within the Emergency Operations Centre during emergency events.
The position also provides direction for the District’s FireSmart and wildfire mitigation programs, including supervision of grant-funded program staff, the FireSmart Coordinator and Wildfire Mitigation Specialist.
The successful candidate will be an organized, collaborative leader with strong administrative and communication skills, capable of building positive relationships, mentoring staff, and delivering results.
Primary Duties:
· Oversees the development, and maintenance, of the Coldstream Emergency Operations and Response Plan including review, creation, training, implementation, maintenance and management of programs and procedures.
· Assume key leadership and/or supervisory positions and accountability when the Emergency Operations Centre is functioning.
· Establishes and maintains positive relationships with both external and internal stakeholders who play a role in the District’s emergency management efforts.
· Oversees the development, and maintenance, of the Coldstream Emergency Operations and Response Plan including review, creation, training, implementation, maintenance and management of programs and procedures.
· Assume key leadership and/or supervisory positions and accountability when the Emergency Operations Centre is functioning.
· Establishes and maintains positive relationships with both external and internal stakeholders who play a role in the District’s emergency management efforts.
· Oversee the Fire Department in the administration, coordination and support of the Coldstream fire service.
· Oversee the Fire Department developing and delivering training programs, in consultation with the Fire Chiefs or Training Officers, to ensure compliance with the current BC Structure Firefighter Minimum Training Standards.
· Oversees the Districts FireSmart Program and the Coldstream Wildfire Resiliency Plan, including initiatives, fuel management and mitigation programs, community risk-reduction strategies are completed, reported and tracked in accordance with the grant-funding requirements.
· Supervises and manages the FireSmart Coordinator and Wildfire Mitigation Specialists for duration of position terms.
· Manages the preparation, writing and maintenance of operating guidelines, procedures and plans as required for the Emergency Operations and Fire Services.
· Tracks training records as required for the Emergency Operations and Fire Services, including, but not limited to, certifications, requirements, expiry dates, volunteer registration and insurance forms.
· Prepares reports and make recommendations to the CAO on corporate matters related to Emergency Management and Fire Services.
· Follows all policies, procedures and standards of the District of Coldstream.
· Attends Council and Committee meetings as required.
· May be required to assist the District in providing emergency services. Duties assigned during an emergency may differ from regular duties.
· Performs other duties as assigned by the Chief Administrative Officer or designate.
Required Qualifications:
· Degree or diploma from a recognized post-secondary institution in a related field supplemented by courses in fire services, occupational health and safety, emergency preparedness including risk assessment and planning and emergency management, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
· Minimum of five (5) years of increasingly responsible, relevant experience in Emergency Management, Volunteer Fire Services, preferably within a local government setting.
· Fire inspector certification compliant with NFPA 1031.
· Fire investigation certification compliant with NFPA 1033.
Key Competencies:
Leadership – Provides clear direction, develops high-performing teams, and fosters a culture of accountability, professionalism, and service excellence.
Administration – Effectively manages programs, budgets, policies, projects, and operational priorities while ensuring organizational objectives are achieved.
Judgement – Demonstrates sound decision-making, critical thinking, and composure when managing complex, high-risk, or emergency situations.
Expertise – Applies comprehensive knowledge of fire services, emergency management, investigations, inspections, and regulatory requirements to support public safety.
Collaboration – Builds productive relationships with staff, elected officials, partner agencies, and the public through respectful and effective communication.
Compensation and Benefits:
The 2026 salary range for this position is $112,444 to $127,014. Placement within the range will be based on the successful candidate’s qualifications, education, and related experience.
In addition to a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, the District offers a flexible work schedule that includes a flex day every three weeks. Employees also benefit from paid time away for medical and dental appointments, as well as leave provisions to support family emergencies, promoting a healthy balance between work and personal responsibilities.
· Medical and Extended Health Coverage – ensuring you and your family are cared for.
· Municipal Pension Plan Contributions – helping you build a secure future.
· Cell Phone Provided – stay connected and equipped for success.
· District Vehicle Provided – supporting your day-to-day responsibilities and travel requirements.
· Vacation and Sick Leave Accruals – time off when you need it.
· Flex Days – promoting work-life balance.
· Relocation Assistance – moving reimbursement available for out-of-town candidates.
· Training and Professional Development – including certifications, workshops, and ongoing learning opportunities to help you grow your skills and advance your career.
How to Apply:
If you are a strategic thinker who enjoys public service and making a meaningful impact in the community, we encourage you to apply!
For more information on this opportunity, go here. Interested candidates are invited to submit their cover letter and resume by email to: hr@coldstream.ca
Subject Line: Application – Protective Services Manager #26-06
The District of Coldstream thanks all applicants; however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.