Deputy Fire Chief

The Deputy Fire Chief will support the Fire Chief in the overall administration, strategic planning, and operational management of the Fire & Emergency Services Department. This position will provide direct oversight of the department’s training program to ensure all firefighters maintain the competencies required under provincial legislation, industry standards, and municipal expectations. The Deputy Fire Chief will act in the capacity of the Fire Chief in their absence with respect to the Fire Prevention and Protection Act and any other legislative responsibilities.

Reporting To: Fire Chief

Responsibilities:

1. Perform the statutory duties of Deputy Fire Chief under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997, associated regulations and/or as directed by the Office of the Fire Marshal.
2. Assist the Fire Chief in the administration of the Fire & Emergency Services department and act for the Fire Chief in their absence, with respect to the Fire Prevention and Protection Act.
3. Respond to emergency calls as necessary and, when required, assume command and direct activities under the department's jurisdiction and authority. May assume Safety Officer or Crew Leader position as determined by available resources on scene.
4. Supervise the fireground to ensure that Officers and Firefighters operate in a manner consistent with established guidelines and accepted firefighting methods.
5. Lead the development, delivery, and documentation of the department’s annual training program - including bi-weekly training, technical rescue, recruit training, and officer development - ensuring all training meets or exceeds Federal, Provincial, and Municipal standards and aligns with NFPA requirements.
6. Conduct fire investigations, as assigned, to determine origin and cause; assess fire scenes, apply criteria for Ontario Fire Marshal notification, collaborate with officers and partner agencies as required, and ensure all investigation reports and forms are completed accurately.
7. Provide advice, assistance, and direction to Officers and firefighters on operational and administrative matters.
8. Support and assist in conducting fire inspections, track deficiencies, and complete follow-up inspections as required.
9. Promote fire and life safety through community outreach, events, presentations, and partnerships, supporting public education and emergency preparedness programs.
10. Manage equipment and supply readiness by overseeing inventory, requisitioning materials, and maintaining accurate inventory records.
11. Oversee maintenance schedules for all department vehicles, equipment, and stations, ensuring required repairs are identified, approved work is completed, and maintenance activities are reported.
12. Oversee and ensure that all Fire Department members operate in compliance with operational policies and procedures including the Occupational Health and Safety Act, Section 21 Firefighter Guidance Notes, Highway Traffic Act, and other legislation as required.
13. Contribute to developing and implementing departmental operating guidelines, policies, and procedures, and provide administrative and technical advice to the Fire Chief on operational issues and departmental policy development.
14. Assist the Fire Chief with operational planning and budget preparation, including annual budgeting, equipment needs, tender specifications, technical guidance, report development, and departmental initiatives.
15. Complete and perform other duties as assigned.

Education & Experience:

• Post-secondary education in fire service administration, public administration or related field
• Minimum of ten (10) years of experience in fire services and emergency response, including demonstrated leadership responsibilities
• Current Standard First Aid and CPR Certificate
• Valid DZ Drivers License with a clean abstract
• Completion of the following certifications is required:
  • NFPA 1001 - Firefighter Level II
  • NFPA 1002 - Pump Operator
  • NFPA 1521 - Incident Safety Officer
  • NFPA 1021 - Fire Officer Level III (Willing to Achieve Level IV within 12 months)
  • NFPA 1041 - Fire Instructor II
  • NFPA 1031 - Fire Inspector I
  • NFPA 1033 - Fire Investigator
  • NFPA 1035 - Fire & Life Safety Educator I
  • NFPA 1035 - Public Information Officer
  • Incident Management System (IMS 200)

Required Skills & Competencies:

• Extensive working knowledge of related applicable legislation, practices, and principles of fire protection and prevention
• Strong working knowledge of Fire Operating Guidelines and Health & Safety procedures
• Strong leadership and team-building skills, with experience engaging volunteer firefighters
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Well developed problem solving and decision-making skills
• Proven conflict resolution abilities and experience handling sensitive situations
• Good administrative and organizational skills
• High level of computer literacy and familiarity with fire service software and reporting systems
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to demonstrate tact and discretion in handling matters of a confidential or politically sensitive nature and to maintain confidentiality

Employment Information:

• Permanent, Full-Time Position
• 35 Hours per Week, Salaried position
• Compensation - Group 13 (Step 1 $96,114 - Step 5 $120,156)
• Availability to attend evening and/or weekend meetings or other events; and to respond to major emergencies as required
• Required to complete a Vulnerable Sector Background Check as a condition of employment
• Share on call weekend responsibilities with the Fire Chief
• Residency in proximity to the Municipality such as that the incumbent will be able to respond within a 30-minute response timeframe to municipal boundaries

This job posting is for a new position within our organization. Artificial Intelligence is not used to screen, assess or select applicants.