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Assistant Fire Chief Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fire Medic

Selma, AL

$52K - $83K/yr

Collaborate with the Fire Chief for developing and implementing training plans for the mill Emergency Response Team * Assist with classroom and field instruction for the mill Emergency Response Team

Fire Medic

Selma, AL · On-site

$52K - $83K/yr

Collaborate with the Fire Chief for developing and implementing training plans for the mill Emergency Response Team * Assist with classroom and field instruction for the mill Emergency Response Team

$101K - $138K/yr

The Division Chief of Fire Prevention functions as the Assistant Fire Marshal and serves as the Acting Fire Marshal in the Fire Marshal's absence. Key Responsibilities * Leads and manages the Fire ...

The Division Chief of Fire Prevention functions as the Assistant Fire Marshal and serves as the Acting Fire Marshal in the Fire Marshal's absence. Key Responsibilities * Leads and manages the Fire ...

Overview Under general direction of the Assistant Fire Chief, the Fire Captain plans, organizes, supervises, and participates in fire suppression, prevention, and basic investigation of structure ...

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Assistant Fire Chief information

See salary details

$33K

$85.9K

$156.5K

How much do assistant fire chief jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant fire chief in the United States is $85,892.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $111,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Fire Chief, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Fire Chief, you need extensive experience in firefighting and emergency response, leadership abilities, and typically an associate or bachelor's degree in fire science or a related field. Familiarity with incident command systems, fire inspection software, and certifications such as Fire Officer II or higher are commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, decision-making under pressure, and the ability to motivate and manage teams are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure effective emergency management, departmental leadership, and the safety of both firefighters and the community.

What does an Assistant Fire Chief do?

An Assistant Fire Chief supports the Fire Chief in managing the daily operations of a fire department. They oversee personnel, training programs, emergency response coordination, and administrative duties. This role often involves supervising fire captains and other staff, developing policies, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and assisting in budget planning. Assistant Fire Chiefs may also act as incident commanders during major emergencies or when the Fire Chief is unavailable.

How much does a volunteer fire chief get paid?

Volunteer fire chiefs typically do not receive a salary, as their role is voluntary. They may receive stipends or reimbursements for expenses, but compensation varies widely depending on the department and region. Most volunteer fire chiefs serve without pay, focusing on leadership and community safety.

What is the difference between Assistant Fire Chief vs Fire Captain?

AspectAssistant Fire ChiefFire Captain
Required credentialsFire science degree, certifications, leadership trainingFirefighter certification, leadership experience
Work environmentAdministrative duties, strategic planning, overseeing operationsOn-scene incident command, firefighting, team supervision
Employer and industry usageFire departments, emergency management agenciesFire departments, emergency services

The Assistant Fire Chief typically handles administrative and strategic responsibilities, supporting the Fire Chief, while the Fire Captain manages on-the-ground firefighting operations and team supervision. Both roles require leadership skills and firefighting experience, but the Assistant Fire Chief focuses more on planning and management, whereas the Fire Captain is more involved in direct incident response.

What does an assistant chief do?

An assistant fire chief supports the fire department's operations by helping to develop policies, oversee emergency response, and manage personnel. They often assist in planning training, coordinating resources, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. This role requires leadership skills, knowledge of firefighting techniques, and relevant certifications such as Fire Officer or Incident Command training.

What makes a good assistant fire chief?

A good assistant fire chief demonstrates strong leadership, effective communication, and comprehensive knowledge of firefighting operations and safety protocols. They should have relevant certifications, such as Fire Officer or Incident Command, and the ability to coordinate emergency responses while supporting the fire chief and managing personnel. Experience in fire service and the ability to make quick, informed decisions are essential qualities.

Can I be a fire chief without a degree?

Becoming a fire chief typically requires extensive experience as a firefighter and leadership skills; a college degree is often preferred but not always mandatory. Many fire departments prioritize certifications, such as fire officer or incident command training, and relevant experience over formal education. Requirements vary by department, so checking specific agency criteria is recommended.

What are some common challenges faced by an Assistant Fire Chief when managing multiple fire stations and teams?

As an Assistant Fire Chief, one of the primary challenges is ensuring consistent communication and operational standards across multiple fire stations. Coordinating resources, training, and incident responses requires strong leadership and organizational skills, as well as the ability to adapt to rapidly changing situations. Balancing administrative responsibilities with on-scene leadership and fostering collaboration among diverse teams are also key aspects of the role. Building trust and maintaining morale while implementing department policies can be both challenging and rewarding.
More about Assistant Fire Chief jobs
What cities are hiring for Assistant Fire Chief jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Fire Chief job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Chief jobs? The most popular types of Fire Chief jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Assistant Fire Chief jobs? The top employers for Assistant Fire Chief jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Fire Chief jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Fire Chief jobs include:
Infographic showing various Assistant Fire Chief job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,892 per year, or $41.3 per hour.
Fire Safety Off IV - Bat Chief - 61049423 - FMO

Fire Safety Off IV - Bat Chief - 61049423 - FMO

State of South Carolina

Columbia, SC • On-site

$52K - $88K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


State Of South Carolina rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 50 rated states


Job description

Salary: $52,100.00 - $88,600.00 Annually
Location : Richland County, SC
Job Type: Temporary Grant - Full-Time
Job Number: 188124
Agency: Adjutant General's Office
Opening Date: 05/05/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Class Code:: JC85
Position Number:: 61049423
Normal Work Schedule:: Other
Pay Grade: GEN09
Hiring Range - Min.: $52,100.00
Hiring Range - Max.: $70,300.00
Opening Date: 05/05/2026
EEO Statement: Equal Opportunity Employer
Agency Specific Application Procedures:: Send additional information to Office of the Adjutant General, Stop 12, 1 National Guard Road, Columbia, SC 29201, fax to (803) 299-1071 or email to: robert.faulk@scmd.sc.gov.
Veteran Preference Statement: South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions.
Job Responsibilities
Plans, schedules, and supervises fire protection activities to include administrative, managerial, and leadership responsibilities. He/she works under limited supervision and assumes the duties and responsibilities of the Assistant Fire Chief in his/her absence. Directs and performs as team leader for control and extinguishment of structural, wildland, and vehicular fires. Respond to medical, confined space, hazardous materials, and other related emergency calls. Assist with executing program(s) designed to provide required training and safety for McCrady visitors and employees. Serves as the lead Battalion Chief and Trainer for all assigned shifts and performs other related fire duties as required.
Minimum and Additional Requirements
A high school diploma and (10) years of progressively accountable firefighting experience with a minimum of (5) years in a supervisory position. Must possess current First Aid, CPR, AED medical training and must possess a valid South Carolina Driver's License and be able to obtain a federal government driver's license as required. Applicant must meet NFPA-1582 physical standards with the ability to wear a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
Additional Comments
Must have knowledge of Supervisory and Command & Control techniques, firefighting, rescue procedures, and life safety inspections. Responsible for leading all shifts in training, on all firefighting topics, structural firefighting techniques, hazardous material storage/handling, first aid, and the requirements of Army Regulations 420-1 and DoDI 6055. Must possess; (IFSAC) Fire Officer III, Fire Inspector II , Fire Instructor II, Driver/Operator Pumper/MWS, HazMat IC, Tele-communicator I/II. Additional certifications required are Incident Safety Officer and ICS/NIMS 100 through 800.If required, must be able to obtain a National Security Clearance at the "Secret" level. Must have knowledge of Fire Alarm Systems. Operate office equipment, communication devices, fire-fighting vehicles/tools, and related equipment. A resume will not be accepted in lieu of an online South Carolina State Employment Application. Only those applicants chosen for interview will be notified of job filled statusNote: Applicants indicating college credit, degree(s) or specialized training on the application shall provide an official copy of transcripts upon notification of selection for hire. This serves as verification of credentials listed on the application.
Benefits for State Employees
The state of South Carolina offers eligible employees generous benefits, including health and dental insurance; retirement and savings plan options; and paid vacation and sick leave. Plus, work-life balance programs such as telecommuting and flexible work schedules are available to employees of some state agencies.
Insurance Benefits
Eligible employees may enroll in health insurance, which includes prescription coverage and wellness benefits. Other available insurance benefits include dental, vision, term life insurance, long term disability and flexible spending accounts for health and child care expenses.
Retirement Benefits
State employees are also offered retirement plan options, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans. Additionally, eligible employees may elect to participate in the South Carolina Deferred Compensation Program, which is a voluntary, supplemental retirement savings plan offering 401(k) and 457 plan options.
Workplace Benefits
State employees may also be eligible for other benefits, including tuition assistance; holiday, annual and sick leave; and discounts on purchases, travel and more.
Note: The benefits above are available to most state employees, with the exception of those in temporary positions. Employees in temporary grant and time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some or none of these benefits as benefits are associated with each position type. For these positions, contact the hiring agency to determine what benefits may be available.
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If chosen for employment, a background check and license check will be performed. If there is any charge or non-conviction that may show up on your record, please let us know now. Also, please provide your driver's license number and state of issue.
02
I meet the minimum education and experience requirements to qualify for this position.
  • Yes
  • No

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I understand that the agency's hiring salary range for this position is $52,100.00 to $70,300.00.
  • Yes
  • No

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What State Of South Carolina employees say

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About State of South Carolina

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

State of South Carolina is not a typical corporation, but the governing body of the US state of South Carolina, located in the capital city of Columbia. Its industry focuses on public administration, providing key essential services to ensure the efficient functioning of the state. These services range from public safety and environment protection to education, healthcare, and economic development. The state was founded in 1788, grounded in democratic principles meant to support the overall well-being of its citizenry. Its core values revolve around service, integrity, accountability, and transparency. The mission of the State of South Carolina is to improve the quality of life for all its people, with a focus on education advancement, economic growth, and improved healthcare.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, SC, US

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