RSA 154:5 Chief Fireward, Engineer, or Fire Chief.

I. The chief fireward, engineer or fire chief who is appointed, rather than elected in any town, village district, precinct, city or area shall be appointed for an indefinite period of time or for a definite term, as determined by the legislative body, and the tenure of office shall depend upon good conduct and efficiency. The chief fireward, engineer or fire chief shall be technically qualified by training or experience and shall have ability to command firefighters and hold their respect and confidence.
II. Subject to such written formal policies as may be adopted by the appointing authority, each chief fireward, engineer, or fire chief of any city or town who is appointed rather than elected, shall have authority to direct and control all employees of his or her department