Deputy Fire Chief

ABOUT THE ROLE The City of Eustis is seeking a trustworthy and responsible individual to perform highly responsible administrative and supervisory work involving the planning, coordination, and direction of the Fire Department. This role assists the Fire Chief in supporting overall administrative functions and day-to-day operational aspects, including the management of all sworn personnel, daily oversight of fire activities, policy development, and budget preparation. The Deputy Fire Chief works with considerable independence and initiative, and their recommendations on personnel decisions carry significant weight in the decision-making process. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Participate in the development, implementation, and maintenance of departmental goals, objectives, priorities, policies, procedures, and work plans. - Participate in the preparation, management, and coordination of the departmental budget, including forecasting funds, justifying programs, and monitoring expenditures. - Participate in the selection of personnel, supervise subordinate staff, provide counseling, enforce departmental rules, and recommend disciplinary matters. - Manage daily operational aspects, including technical fire activities, record keeping, budgetary control, personnel management, and equipment safety, readiness, and maintenance. - Attend or conduct staff meetings and schedule in-service training, seminars, or conferences to improve professional skills. - Assume the duties of the Fire Chief in the Chief's absence. - Perform public relations functions between the City, civic agencies, and other fire departments. - Respond to fire and emergency calls, taking charge or participating in suppression, rescue, first aid, and emergency operations. - Command the operations sector at major multi-company emergency scenes or hazardous material incidents. - Support the Fire Chief in planning and directing departmental activities for major emergencies (e.g., hurricanes or disasters) and managing aftermath activities such as inspection, clean-up, and disaster relief. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Associate's Degree from an accredited college in Fire Science or a related field. - Successful completion of Fire Officer One Certification. - Completion of all Lieutenant requirements. - Certified Fire Instructor and certified Fire Inspector. - Eight (8) years of progressively responsible fire service experience, including a minimum of two years as a Fire Lieutenant. - Valid Florida Driver's License with endorsements for emergency equipment. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Physical ability to work long hours under arduous conditions, perform fire suppression work, and work on-call as required, including nights, weekends, and holidays. - Ability to work in adverse weather and hazardous conditions related to firefighting. - Must be able to work in protective clothing and equipment weighing up to 60 pounds. - Physical demands include walking, standing, running, jumping, climbing, stooping, reaching, bending, and lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling 50+ pounds. SELECTION PROCESS - Candidates will be evaluated based on job-related qualifications, with additional consideration given to extensive education, training, or experience. - The process includes a thorough background investigation, encompassing a criminal history and driver's license check. - Final candidates will receive a conditional offer of employment and must pass a drug test and medical exam. HOW TO APPLY - Interested candidates should apply through the official City of Eustis employment portal or the provided application link associated with this posting. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Eustis - Location: Eustis, FL (Fire Department) - Job Type: Full-Time - Department: Fire - Job Number: 202500166 - Opening Date: 07/23/2026 - Working Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. - Benefits: Excellent benefits package provided.