A civil service commission is a government agency that is constituted by legislature to regulate the employment and working conditions of civil servants, oversee hiring and promotions, and promote the values of the public service.  

The Silverton Fire District Civil Service Commission was created to establish a system of personnel administration based on merit principles and scientific methods, governing the appointment, tenure, promotion, layoff, removal and discipline of its officers and employees, and other incidents of employment. 

The Commission is comprised of three Silverton Fire District citizens who are appointed by the Board of Directors. The Commission also consists of a chief examiner and such assistants as may be necessary. The major duties of the Commission are to oversee the process of hiring firefighters, approve hiring lists, and ensure that firefighters are treated equitably and fairly in disciplinary actions.