Deputy Fire Chief

Dorchester CountySc, SC
Onsite

About The Position

Dorchester County is seeking a Deputy Fire Chief to join its executive leadership team and help guide a growing, progressive fire and rescue organization. This role involves leading by example, developing future leaders, strengthening accountability, managing public resources, and working collaboratively with the Fire Chief and command staff. The position is located in Dorchester County, SC, which offers modern amenities, small-town charm, excellent schools, quality healthcare, and a low cost of living.

Requirements

  • Associate’s degree, vocational technical degree or specialized training equivalent to two years of college education.
  • Eight years as a supervisor.
  • Valid state driver’s license with an acceptable driving history.
  • National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Firefighter II certification.
  • National Incident Management System (NIMS-ICS) Incident Command training or equivalent, including Incident Command System (ICS) 300 and 400, and IS 700 and 800.
  • Fire Instructor I and Fire Officer I minimum or equivalent.
  • Other education as deemed necessary.

Nice To Haves

  • Experience in Fire Service Operations
  • Experience in Personnel Management & Leadership
  • Experience in Budget & Fiscal Management
  • Experience in Strategic Planning
  • Experience in Employee Development
  • Experience in Organizational Leadership
  • Leadership philosophy
  • Relevant executive-level experience
  • Ability to contribute to the department’s continued growth and future direction

Responsibilities

  • Supervises the daily operation and functions of the department and oversees workload and schedules of assigned full-time / part-time employees and temporary staff as well as volunteers.
  • Oversees the operations of the Fire Department in the absence of the Fire Chief.
  • Evaluates and prepares work schedules; ensures any related legal requirements are met; assists with the preparation of cost estimates and departmental budgets; and provides oversight and maintenance planning of equipment and facilities.
  • Oversees the hiring process and new hire testing for department.
  • Supervises assigned staff, including instructing, assigning, reviewing and planning work, maintaining standards, coordinating activities, selecting new employees, acting on employee problems, recommending and approving employee discipline, and recommending discharge.
  • Reviews the work of assigned staff for completeness and accuracy; offers training, advice and assistance as needed.
  • Periodically reviews and evaluates state and federal laws/requirements; ensures departmental compliance and implements changes.
  • Manages department computer/software and communication equipment functions.
  • Reviews current operations to modify procedures, standards and quality control.
  • Responds to emergencies, inquiries and complaints from citizens, advocacy groups, government entities, media, etc.
  • May inform general public of crisis conditions, emergency response, life and death situations, on-scene updates, etc., through press releases; performs interviews with television, radio and print media in the absence of the Fire Chief.
  • Receives, reviews, prepares and submits various records and reports including invoices, purchase orders, budget documents, cost spreadsheets, maps, training material, memos, etc.
  • Administers department related grants from the application process through award management.
  • Plans, coordinates and conducts test and trial emergencies to prepare staff and volunteers in crisis conditions.
  • Ensures appropriate certifications and paperwork are processed for staff and works effectively and efficiently; meets necessary staffing requirements, guidelines, expectations and goals of the department and state.
  • Manages Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Insurance Services office (ISO).
  • Plans strategy for the future regarding apparatus, personnel, buildings, and equipment for the department.
  • Performs semi-annual/annual assessments of all Shift Captains; determines changes needed; develops plans for implementation; delegates to appropriate personnel; and provides oversight to ensure proper execution.
  • Performs other related job duties as assigned.

Benefits

  • Excellent schools
  • Modern libraries
  • Affordable housing
  • Quality healthcare
  • Low cost of living
  • Southern hospitality
© 2026 Teal Labs, Inc
Privacy PolicyTerms of Service