Deputy Fire Chief

International Association-Fire Chiefs; San Luis Obispo (CA); On-site; USD 187,000 - 233,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Outstanding benefit package

Job summary

The City of San Luis Obispo is seeking a Deputy Fire Chief to lead with clarity and integrity, directing operations and personnel in a collaborative fire department environment.

The ideal candidate holds a four-year degree in fire-related fields, at least seven years as a firefighter with three in supervision, and seeks to mentor others while upholding ethical standards. The position offers a competitive salary and outstanding benefits; filing deadline is Oct 19, 2026.

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in fire science, fire technology, business administration, public administration, or a related field.
• Seven years of experience as a full-time firefighter, including three years of supervisory experience equivalent to a Fire Captain or Fire Battalion Chief, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Desirable qualifications include California State Fire Training Chief Fire Officer Certification and Executive Chief Fire Officer Certification.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Mentoring & coaching

Education

Bachelor's degree in Fire Science or related field

Chief Fire Officer Certification

Executive Fire Officer Certification

Job description

Deputy Fire Chief

City of San Luis Obispo, CA

The City of San Luis Obispo Fire Department seeks a fire service leader who is a strong communicator who is direct, calm, and consistent. The new Deputy Chief must read people and situations well, anticipate operational and organizational needs, and be committed to developing others through mentoring and coaching. The new Deputy Chief must be transparent in actions, decisions, and communication. They must project organizational integrity through ethical behavior and sound judgment.

The minimum requirements for this position are graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in fire science, fire technology, business administration, public administration, or a related field, seven years of experience as a full-time firefighter, including three years of supervisory experience equivalent to a Fire Captain or Fire Battalion Chief, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Desirable qualifications include California State Fire Training Chief Fire Officer Certification and Executive Chief Fire Officer Certification.

The annual salary range is $186,654 - $233,298. The City provides an outstanding benefit package.

Filing deadline is October 19, 2026.

Resumes acknowledged within two business days.