Deputy Fire Chief

Benton County Fire District 1, based in Kennewick, WA, is seeking a Deputy Fire Chief for its combination fire department serving approximately 19,200 residents across 320 square miles of suburban and rural Benton County. Located in southeastern Washington, the District is part of the Tri-Cities region, which is known for its relatively affordable cost of living, abundant sunshine, a relaxed pace of life, and year-round outdoor recreation along the Columbia, Snake, and Yakima rivers.

BENTON COUNTY FIRE DISTRICT 1
Governed by an elected 3-member Board of Commissioners, the District operates with a 2026 budget of $7.3 million and 22 full-time employees. The District provides comprehensive emergency services, including structural and wildland firefighting, rescue, hazardous materials response, and EMS transport. Operating from 2 staffed stations, 2 volunteer stations, and an administrative/support facility, the District responds to approximately 1,800 calls annually and maintains mutual and automatic aid agreements with 21 regional emergency response agencies.

THE DEPUTY FIRE CHIEF
Reporting to the Fire Chief, the Deputy Fire Chief directs and administers Fire District operations, responds to emergency incidents, and performs command functions as needed. The Deputy Fire Chief also ensures that District policies and procedures are implemented across all areas of responsibility and serves as the agency's Health and Safety Officer. Direct reports include 3 career shift captains, 2 volunteer battalion chiefs, and the Safety Committee.

Requirements: Not specified in posting; see full job description at gmphr.com

Salary: $122,875 – $151,195 annually DOQ

Application Deadline: 2026-12-26