Deputy Fire Chief

About the role

The City of Lewiston is seeking an accomplished fire service professional to serve as the Deputy Fire Chief. This role involves leading a team of 69 firefighters, providing emergency services, and contributing to the growth and development of the department.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Fire Chief in managing operations including emergency response, budget preparation, and personnel management.
• Respond to and manage multi-company fire, rescue, and emergency EMS incidents, including assuming command and control roles.
• Supervise personnel across different divisions and ensure compliance with departmental policies and procedures.
• Develop and coordinate selection processes for new hires, promote candidates, and provide input on departmental policies and procedures.
• Represent the department at City advisory boards and community events, and assist in disaster planning.
• Conduct investigations related to citizen complaints and employee discipline, and prepare news releases and informational materials.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree in fire science or a related field.
• Minimum of two years of experience at the level of Battalion Chief, or five years of responsibility at the company officer level.
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• Maintain valid Idaho and Washington EMS certification.
• Knowledge of city, state, and federal fire suppression laws, contract obligations, and rules and regulations.
• Experience with ICS 300 and 400 or equivalency.
• Ability to make timely and informed decisions, plan, organize, coordinate, and direct activities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of fire suppression methods, equipment, and techniques.
• Understanding of construction methods and materials.
• Experience with aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) techniques.
• Ability to analyze situations accurately and adopt effective courses of action.
• Proficiency in record-keeping and report writing techniques.
• Knowledge of applicable laws, codes, regulations, and policies.

Skills

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Leadership and supervisory abilities.
• Problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Training and development expertise.
• Teamwork and collaboration skills.

Benefits

Commensurate with experience.

Pay

Hiring pay range is $107,702 to $117,051. For full pay range, please see the city's Human Resources website: https://www.cityoflewiston.org/DocumentCenter/View/8478/FY26-Exempt--Nonexempt-PDF.
Effective October 01, 2026, a new scale will include a 1.5% COLA, see grade PE on the scale for pay reference.

Schedule

Full-time position.