Executive Deputy Fire Chief, Operations & Administration

City of San Luis Obispo; San Luis Obispo (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of San Luis Obispo is seeking a Deputy Fire Chief to lead the Fire Department's operations and administration, providing strategic direction, mentoring staff, and coordinating with City leadership and regional partners.

Responsibilities include ensuring readiness across shifts, directing purchasing and maintenance of apparatus, overseeing EMS and training programs, and guiding policy development, staffing, and capital projects in a transparent, ethical manner.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in fire science, fire technology, business administration, public administration, or related field.
• Seven years as a full-time firefighter with three years of supervisory experience (Fire Captain/Fire Battalion Chief or equivalent).
• Desirable: California State Fire Training Chief Fire Officer or Executive Chief Fire Officer certifications.

Responsibilities

• Assist Fire Chief in planning, directing, and coordinating department programs.
• Develop departmental goals, policies, and procedures and monitor implementation.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and supervision to staff; ensure effective communication with internal/external customers.
• Direct design, implementation and evaluation of training programs to align with department goals.
• Act as incident commander for EOC in the Fire Chief's absence; manage major emergencies as required.
• Oversee budgeting, purchasing, grant management, and capital projects.
• Liaise with City officials, other agencies, and vendors to support public safety objectives.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Public speaking

Mentoring

Budget management

Interagency coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree in Fire Science/Fire Technology/Business/Public Administration

Job description

The City of San Luis Obispo is seeking a Deputy Fire Chief to lead the Fire Department's operations and administration, providing strategic direction, mentoring staff, and coordinating with City leadership and regional partners.

Responsibilities include ensuring readiness across shifts, directing purchasing and maintenance of apparatus, overseeing EMS and training programs, and guiding policy development, staffing, and capital projects in a transparent, ethical manner.