Deputy Fire Chief Position Available In DeKalb, Georgia

Deputy Fire Chief
Regular Full-Time
Decatur, GA, US
5 days ago

Requisition ID:

1538
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Salary Range:

$91,000.00 To $114,000.00 Annually

Job Title:

Deputy Fire Chief

Department:

Fire and Rescue Department

Reports To:

Fire Chief

Compensation:

$91,000-$114,000 (DOQ)

Position Summary:

The Deputy Fire Chief plays a critical leadership role in the Fire and Rescue Department, serving as second-in-command. This position supports the Fire Chief in managing operations, fire prevention, training, personnel, and compliance with safety regulations and fire codes. The role requires a balance of administrative responsibilities and field presence to ensure smooth and effective department operations.

Key Responsibilities:

Act as Fire Chief in their absence.
Manage and supervise Fire Department personnel through establishing assignments, monitor work and provide performance evaluations, provide counseling, and issue disciplinary actions.
Responsible for the recruitment and promotional process of fire personnel. Represent the department in inter-agency training, seminars, certification programs, and meetings. Identify training needs and coordinate development programs with internal staff and external organizations.
Prepare operations division budget and assist with the development and management of the departmental budget.
Participate in policy creation, goal setting, and departmental committees.
Serve as liaison for City special events, coordinating logistics with other departments.
Promote a collaborative work environment to deliver high-quality services to the City of Decatur and its staff.
Foster strong internal teamwork and cultivate positive relationships with the public and local businesses, including scheduling fire drills.
Support and promote city-sponsored programs and participate in interdepartmental teams.
Inspect documentation related to training, fire prevention, and EMS operations.
Oversee and complete administrative duties such as incident reporting, time sheets, and workers’ compensation documentation.
Manage special projects, ISO records, division-level programs and documentation.
Supervise medical/rescue operations, daily emergency services, and departmental training.
Serve as acting Fire Marshall in their absence.
Ensure the quality and consistency of emergency medical care at incident scenes.
Lead or participate in drills to meet ISO standards and ensure staff training compliance.
Provide technical instruction on fire suppression, inspections, and hazard mitigation.
Train staff on equipment use and develop specialized training programs to improve departmental performance.
Facilitate communication across the department and promote a transparent, constructive workplace.
Implement policies aligned with the City’s goals and the direction of the Fire Chief.
Apply effective problem-solving and decision-making strategies in complex and high-pressure situations.
Maintain composure and professionalism during emergency incidents.
Perform additional duties as assigned.

Required Competencies and Skills:

Strong leadership and team-building capabilities.
Effective communicator with solid public relations skills.
Comprehensive knowledge of fire prevention, suppression, and emergency response practices.
Ability to develop, manage, and deliver training programs.
Skilled in enforcing fire codes and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Demonstrates initiative, accountability, and effective feedback practices.
Positively influences morale and equity within the department.
Committed to personal and departmental growth through professional development.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Fire Science, Public Administration, or a related field. At least 7-10 years of progressive fire service experience, including 3+ years in a leadership role. Previous experience as a Fire Officer (Captain or higher).
Valid State of Georgia Driver’s License (Class A, B, or F) with a clean motor vehicle record.
Completion of supervisory, leadership, and instructor training programs.

Required Certifications:

State of Georgia Firefighter Certification
Fire Officer II (III/IV preferred)
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT I or equivalent) – preferred
NPQ Fire Instructor I, CPR Instructor

NIMS ICS

100, 200, 300, 400, 700, and 800
No felony convictions.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions:

Pass a pre-employment physical and drug screen.
Capable of operating department vehicles and equipment safely.
Able to learn the City’s geography and key structures.
Free of any condition impairing performance of essential duties.
Work environments include both indoor and outdoor settings, potentially hazardous conditions, and emergency scenes.
Must perform physical activities such as lifting (10-50 lbs.), bending, crawling, climbing, and using tools.
Able to work effectively with a diverse team and community.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The City of Decatur is committed to having a workforce that reflects diversity at all levels and is an equal opportunity employer. Therefore, qualified applicants are considered for employment, and employees are treated during employment without regard to actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status, familial status, or veteran/military status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.