Job Title: Assistant Fire Chief

Salary range: $90.000 - $100,000

Department: Fire Department

Hours: Full-Time Non-Union Salaried & Exempt

Job Description:

CITY OF OTHELLO

ASSISTANT FIRE CHIEF

JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE:                    Assistant Fire Chief                                    

REPORTS TO:              City Administrator

FLSA STATUS:             Salary/Exempt

CLASSIFICATION:        Non-Union

PREPARED BY:            Tania Morelos, City Clerk                            DATE: October 15, 2025

APPROVED BY:           Shawn Logan, City Administrator/Mayor    DATE: October 15, 2025

The Assistant Fire Chief supports the Fire Chief in leading the Fire Department’s operations, personnel, and strategic initiatives. This leadership role blends operational oversight, emergency response, and community engagement to ensure the department delivers high-quality fire protection, prevention, and public safety services. The Assistant Fire Chief serves as second-in-command and acts as Fire Chief in their absence.

Key Responsibilities

Lead with Purpose

• Supervise and mentor career staff and volunteers in daily operations, training, and emergency response.
• Promote a culture of integrity, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Support Strategic Direction

• Assist in developing departmental goals, policies, and long-range plans.
• Help implement initiatives that enhance preparedness, safety, and operational efficiency.

Manage Operations

• Coordinate personnel scheduling, equipment readiness, and compliance with safety regulations.
• Respond to emergency incidents and support command operations as needed.

Foster Community Partnerships

• Represent the department in community outreach, public education, and mutual aid coordination.
• Build trust with residents, elected officials, and regional partners.

What you Bring

• Demonstrated leadership experience in fire service or emergency management.
• Strong understanding of fire suppression, basic emergency medical services, and incident command systems.
• Ability to lead calmly under pressure and make sound decisions in dynamic environments.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Associate degree in Fire Science, Public Administration, or related field preferred.
• Supervisory experience in fire service or public safety strongly preferred.
• Proven ability to assist in the development and implement policies and procedures.
• Valid Washington State driver’s license (or ability to obtain), with EVOC certification within 2 months.
• Fire Code Inspector certification (ICC) within 18 months.
• Successful completion of background check, medical exam, and drug screening.
• Experience in firefighting will be given significant weight and consideration.
   

Skills & Competencies

• Leading teams through change and challenge.
• Using modern firefighting tools and office technology.
• Making informed decisions in high-stakes situations.
• Engaging diverse stakeholders and building consensus.

Physical & Work Environment

• Active field and office environment, including emergency scenes and hazardous conditions.
• Must be physically able to lift, move, and respond with stamina during prolonged operations.
• Regular 40-hour workweek with flexible availability for emergencies, meetings, and events.

Why You’ll Love it Here

• Impactful Work – Help protect and serve a growing, resilient community.
• Collaborative Culture – Join a leadership team that values transparency and inclusion.
• Career Development – Opportunities to grow, lead, and innovate.
• Comprehensive Benefits – Medical, dental, vision, WA State retirement (DRS), paid time off, and more.

Acknowledgement

This job description outlines the primary responsibilities of the Fire Chief and may evolve to meet the changing needs of the City. The City Administration reserves the right to modify duties as required.

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