Deputy Fire Chief
About The Position
The Fire Department is hiring a Deputy Fire Chief! Make an impact: The Deputy Fire Chief directs and manages the operations of an assigned division of the Fire Department. As one of the department's nine executive command staff members, the Deputy Chief provides strategic direction, oversees division functions, and ensures effective service delivery in support of the department's mission. Deputy Chiefs play a crucial role in shaping policy, guiding personnel development, ensuring operational readiness, and representing the department to city leaders, labor groups, partner agencies, and the community. What you will do:We are currently seeking a Deputy Chief of Training and anticipate additional openings in the spring. We are looking for well-rounded individuals who can serve in any Deputy Chief role within the organization. The advertisement outlines the various Deputy Chief positions within the department and our intent to establish an eligibility list to fill one current vacancy (possibly in the Training Division) and one anticipated vacancy in the spring of 2026, as well as other possible future openings.
Requirements
- Must pass the pre-employment background check and drug test.
- Must have an Oregon Driver's license and meet the City of Salem's driving standards.
- Associate's degree from an accredited college or university in Fire Science or related field; and seven or more years of progressively responsible full-time continuous fire service employment, five years of increasingly responsible command and management experience at the Executive Officer level (as a Fire Chief, Assistant Chief, Deputy or Division Chief, or Battalion Chief). Experience in fire and/or emergency medical services, including divisional or departmental management experience, and labor relations; or any equivalent combination of experience, education and training that demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skills, and abilities as listed, and ability to perform the essential job functions.
- Applicable Incident Command System coursework certification is required for the assignment.
Nice To Haves
- Relevant work experience in an organization with similar size, complexity, and population served.
- EMT - Basic certification
- Bachelor's degree
- Fire Officer II
- National Fire Academy EFO
- CPSE CFO credential
- International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI)
Responsibilities
- Direct and manage assigned division operations, including day-to-day activities, staff, and resources.
- Contribute to strategic planning, policy development, and organizational initiatives.
- Supervise, mentor, and evaluate assigned personnel to support professional growth and performance.
- Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders and represent the department on boards, commissions, and committees.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family.
- Paid vacation and sick time in accordance with City policies.
- Competitive pay.
- Employer-paid PERS contribution of 6%.
- Opportunity for voluntary pre-tax contributions to a 457b account.
- Health care and dependent care flexible spending accounts.
- Voluntary long-term care.
- Employee wellness program.
- Employee assistance program.
- Employee health clinic.
- Position schedule is Monday - Friday, hours vary as needed.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Executive
Industry
Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
Education Level
Associate degree
