Deputy Fire Chief

The City of San Luis Obispo is hiring for the position of Deputy Fire Chief!

JOB SUMMARY: Ensures the safe and efficient administration and operations of the Fire Department; assists the Fire Chief in strategic planning, coordinating, and directing the administrative functions and operations of the Fire Department; develops and mentors the Fire Department's personnel; serves as acting Fire Chief as assigned and performs executive level activities; responds to major emergencies to exercise incident command and also serves a primary role in EOC functions as required.

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.

Examples of duties include: Assists the Fire Chief in planning, implementing, and directing all programs and operations of the department. Assists in formulating and implementing departmental rules, procedures, and policies; ensures consistent application across all functions. Develops and recommends departmental goals and objectives and delegates authority and responsibility to meet the goals and objectives; evaluates and reports to the Fire Chief on the effectiveness and efficiency of departmental operations. Researches, analyzes, prepares, and presents detailed staff reports, technical assessments, and analytical information to support departmental decision making. Oversees departmental programs and functions as directed by the Fire Chief. Provides leadership, coaching, mentoring, and supervision to assigned staff; demonstrates open and direct communication with peers, subordinates, and internal and external customers; promotes organizational and employee development. Directs the design, implementation, and evaluation of comprehensive Fire Department training programs. Serves as the incident commander of the Emergency Operations Center in the absence of the Fire Chief. Oversees all personnel actions within the department. Responds to major emergencies to exercise incident command as required.

Benefits include: Retirement through California Public Employee's Retirement System (PERS). Health insurance with cafeteria plan options for health, dental and vision. Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance. Vacation: 12 days per year increasing to 20 days after 20 years. Holidays: 12-13 days per year. Sick Leave: 12 days per year. Administrative Leave available to management employees. Long Term Disability Insurance. Deferred Compensation. Wellness Program. Employee Assistance Program. Tuition Reimbursement: up to $1500 annually for job-related educational costs.

Before a final offer is made, the position requires: Pre-employment Physical, Police Background Investigation, Live Scan Fingerprinting (DOJ).

Requirements: Graduation from accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in fire science, fire technology, business administration, public administration, or related field; seven years experience as full-time firefighter including three years supervisory experience equivalent to Fire Captain or Fire Battalion Chief, or equivalent combination of education and experience; valid California class C driver's license and satisfactory driving record; Desirable: California State Fire Training Chief Fire Officer certification, Executive Chief Fire Officer certification, National Wildfire Coordinating Group ICS qualifications

Salary: $186,654.00 - $233,298.00 Annually

Application Deadline: 2026-10-19