Deputy Fire Chief

Employment Type:  Regular Full Time
Hours of Work:  35
Job location:  Fire Headquarters
Pay:  $154,280 To $192,848 Annual
Grade/Band:  13
Job Posting Start Date:  1/29/26
Job Posting End Date:  2/12/26

Overview

As the largest municipality within one of Canada’s fastest growing regions, Kitchener is known as an innovative, caring, and vibrant city offering strong and connected neighbourhoods, an affordable cost of living, and a proud reputation for community engagement. 

The Kitchener Fire Department is seeking a Deputy Fire Chief, who is a highly motivated, collaborative and a strategic leader. 

Under guidance of the Fire Chief, and in conjunction with the Senior Leadership Team, you will be asked to lead and enhance our department supporting the Suppression, Specialized Rescue and Training Divisions.  Leading by example, you will play an integral role in building our department’s culture, direction, and overall service delivery to the community.

(We appreciate the interest of all applicants. Only candidates whose skills, experience and qualifications meet the requirements of the position will be contacted.)

Responsibilities

• Works collaboratively with the Fire Management Team
• Responsible for leading a variety of divisions; initial support of Suppression, Specialized Rescue and our Training Division
• Mutually responsible for supporting our Attendance Support Program
• Responsible for interviewing and selection, orientation and training, direction and guidance, and performance management up to and including recommending termination 
  Establishes policies and operating procedures
• Plans programs and supports staff growth and development
• Develops and monitors budget for the areas within assigned divisions
• Conducts research and analysis; prepares staff reports, reports for Council, and correspondence; makes presentations; carries out special assignments; and attends Council meetings
• Responds to inquiries from and liaises with the Mayor and Council, residents, community groups, special interest groups, City departments/divisions, other government/agencies, and the media
• Keeps up to date with current trends and developments in the fire service
• Serves as a member of the Corporate Management Team (CMT) 
• Performs the duties of the Fire Chief in the absence of the incumbent
• Participate in a rotating ON-CALL schedule
• Performs other related duties as assigned

Education

• 3-year degree or diploma in a relevant field or an equivalent combination of education and experience

Experience

• Must have over 10 years’ experience in a leadership role, emergency services preferred

Additional Requirements

• Valid MTO DZ/G class driver's license in good standing
• Provide Drivers Abstract at your own expense as a condition of employment
• Provide a satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Check or Criminal Record Check at your own expense as a condition of employment

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong interpersonal skills which will help foster and build positive relationships amongst all staff in the fire department and across the entire corporation  
• Critical and concept-based thinker, with thorough analytical and problem-solving skills
• Demonstrated knowledge of fire regulations, rules, operating guidelines, procedures, policies; applicable Municipal/Provincial Codes, Acts, By-laws; Occupational Health and Safety Act and applicable regulations; and investigation procedures 
• Strong administrative skills and are an effective communicator
• Ability to exercise independent judgement and action
• Ability to apply risk management processes to issues related to the department safety and liability exposure while ensuring services remain consistent and reflects the needs of the community
• Ability to develop positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Ability to use software programs such as Microsoft Office, Outlook, Telestaff, and Fire Records Management System