Deputy Fire Chief

California State Association of Counties; San Luis Obispo (CA); On-site; USD 187,000 - 233,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits package

Job summary

The City of San Luis Obispo Fire Department seeks a Deputy Chief who is a strong communicator, direct, calm, and consistent to lead operations and develop others through mentoring and coaching.

The ideal candidate has a four-year degree in fire science or related field and at least seven years as a firefighter, including three years in a supervisory role; CA certifications are desirable. The annual salary ranges from $186,654 to $233,298 with an outstanding benefits package.

Qualifications

• Four-year degree in fire science, fire technology, business/public administration, or related field.
• Seven years of experience as a full-time firefighter, with three years in a supervisory role (Fire Captain or Battalion Chief) or equivalent.
• Desirable certifications include C.F.O.F. and E.F.O.C.

Responsibilities

• Lead fire department operations as Deputy Chief.
• Mentor and coach personnel to develop leadership capabilities.
• Maintain transparent, ethical decision-making and communications.

Skills

Communication

Leadership

Mentoring

Education

Bachelor’s degree in fire science or related field

Chief Fire Officer Certification (CFOC)

Executive Chief Fire Officer Certification (EFO)

Job description

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.

Please do not hesitate to contact Diana Bishop at [phone] if you have questions about this position or the recruitment process. A detailed brochure is available at: www.peckhamandmckenney.com

Filing deadline is October 19, 2026.

Resumes acknowledged within two business days.