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Deputy Fire Chief
The Deputy Fire Chief serves as the second‐in-command within the fire department and plays a critical role in bridging the gap between strategic leadership and daily operational management. This classification is tasked with ensuring effective emergency response, fire suppression, fire prevention, training, and administrative oversight. In the absence of the Fire Chief, the Deputy Fire Chief assumes full command responsibilities and acts as a spokesperson on policy, safety, and community outreach initiatives.
Class Code:
SFI01C
Job Grade:
SGS07
Special Job Requirements:
Typical Functions:
Direct and oversee all aspects of emergency scenes, including fire suppression, rescue operations, hazardous materials incidents, and emergency medical responses. Assume incident command when on scene, making real-time decisions under pressure and coordinating responses with first responders and external agencies. Ensure that all operations comply with established protocols and safety standards. Assist the Fire Chief in developing strategic goals, policies, and annual budgets. Develop, coordinate, and enforce standard operating procedures, rules, and policies to ensure efficiency and regulatory compliance. Prepare detailed reports and maintain records related to operational activities and expenditures. Supervise and evaluate the performance of Battalion Chiefs, officers, and front-line personnel, ensuring adherence to pre-determined standards and guidelines. Oversee the construction and delivery of comprehensive in-service training programs for both firefighting and emergency medical personnel. Lead recruitment, retention, performance evaluations, and disciplinary actions for fire personnel. Collaborate with fire prevention specialists, local authorities, and community groups to develop programs that enhance public safety and mitigate community risks. Participate in fire investigations and post-incident reviews to refine operational effectiveness and community outreach initiatives. Coordinate the maintenance, testing, and repair of firefighting apparatus, tools, and equipment. Monitor inventory and secure necessary resources to support operational readiness and emergency preparedness.
Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills:
Ability to inspire, direct, and manage both routine and high-pressure emergency situations. Strong decision-making skills with an aptitude for rapid problem solving and effective delegation. Excellent oral and written communication skills to effectively interact with internal personnel, government officials, and the community. Proven ability to negotiate and build cooperative relationships internally and externally. Competence in strategic planning, budget development, and data-driven decision-making. A detail-oriented approach that ensures adherence to regulatory standards and operational protocols. Familiarity with modern firefighting technology, data management systems, and learning management systems. Proficiency in using computers and related software for reporting, planning, and records management. Physical ability to manage emergency scenes and mental endurance to deal with stressful, high-stakes incidents.
Minimum Qualifications:
High School Diploma or GED. Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience within fire service or emergency management operations. Experience should include a demonstrated record of advancing responsibilities-from field operations to supervisory roles-to provide a robust background in both hands-on and administrative functions. Experience in a leadership or management position is essential, with a track record of overseeing varied teams, managing budgets, developing policies, and conducting training initiatives. Participation in ongoing professional development and advanced training programs (e.g., Incident Command System (ICS), hazardous materials response, and fire safety technology) is expected to stay current with emerging trends and regulatory changes.
Required Certificates:
N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.
Exempt:
N