Position Summary
The Deputy Fire Chief serves as the second-in-command of the Fire Department and assists the Fire Chief in the administration, planning, coordination, and supervision of all fire department operations. This position provides leadership in emergency response, personnel management, training, fire prevention, budgeting, and strategic planning while ensuring the department delivers high-quality services to the community.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Leadership & Administration
- Assist the Fire Chief in managing the daily operations of the department.
- Serve as acting Fire Chief in the absence of the Fire Chief.
- Develop, implement, and evaluate departmental policies, procedures, and programs.
- Supervise and evaluate department personnel, including officers, firefighters, and support staff.
- Participate in hiring, promotions, disciplinary actions, and employee development.
- Foster a positive and professional work environment.
Emergency Operations
- Respond to and manage emergency incidents including fires, medical emergencies, rescues, hazardous materials incidents, and natural disasters.
- Assume command of emergency scenes as required.
- Coordinate mutual aid responses with neighboring agencies.
- Ensure compliance with established incident command procedures and safety standards.
Training & Personnel Development
- Oversee departmental training programs and certification requirements.
- Ensure personnel maintain required certifications and continuing education.
- Develop leadership opportunities and succession planning initiatives.
Fire Prevention & Community Risk Reduction
- Assist with fire inspections, investigations, and code enforcement activities.
- Participate in public education and community outreach programs.
- Work collaboratively with businesses, schools, and community organizations to promote fire safety.
Budget & Asset Management
- Assist in preparing and administering departmental budgets.
- Monitor expenditures and recommend cost-effective solutions.
- Oversee maintenance and replacement planning for apparatus, equipment, and facilities.
- Participate in grant writing and funding opportunities.
Compliance & Records Management
- Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
- Maintain accurate department records, reports, and statistical data.
- Assist with accreditation, audits, and departmental reporting requirements.
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Associate’s degree in Fire Science, Public Administration, Emergency Management, or related field preferred.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in fire service.
- Minimum of 3 years of supervisory or command-level experience.
- Certified Firefighter I & II.
- Certified Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), EMT, or higher as required by department standards.
- Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record.
- Ability to obtain and maintain certifications required by the department.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Fire Science, Public Administration, Emergency Management, or related field.
- Fire Officer II, III, or IV certification.
- ICS 300 and ICS 400 certifications.
- Fire Instructor certification.
- Experience with budgeting, strategic planning, and personnel management.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong leadership and organizational skills.
- Thorough knowledge of modern firefighting techniques and emergency response operations.
- Ability to make sound decisions under stressful conditions.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to effectively supervise and motivate personnel.
- Knowledge of fire prevention practices, fire codes, and safety regulations.
- Proficiency with computer systems, reporting software, and records management systems.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to perform strenuous physical activities associated with firefighting and emergency response.
- Ability to work in hazardous environments, adverse weather conditions, and emergency situations.
- Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull equipment and individuals as required.
- Ability to wear and operate personal protective equipment and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).