Deputy Fire Chief

Job Purpose

The Deputy Fire Chief leads the response to any given emergency, which the Fire Services are asked to respond to during any period they are assigned to cover. Activities may include managing the response to significant fires, managing the response to hazardous chemical incidents, and managing the Fire Services’ involvement in other re lead the response to any given emergency, which the Fire Services are asked to respond to during any period they are assigned to cover. Activities may include managing the response to significant fires, managing the response to hazardous chemical incidents, and managing the Fire Services’ involvement in other rescue situations. Depending on the nature and size of the incident scene, the Deputy Fire Chiefs may be required to take overall command of the scene and lead the activities of the Fire, Medical, and Security teams.

In addition to the emergency response responsibilities, the Deputy Fire Chief roles are responsible for a range of contract management, training, engagement, and operational tasks to ensure the Fire Department is always capable of providing a complete response to any emergency. They also support the engagement activities required to ensure staff are adequately trained in dealing with emergencies and the actions they must take in the event of an emergency. In addition, they are required to deliver community engagement activity to both minimize the fire risk in the community and ensure community members are aware of fire emergency procedures.

Major Accountabilities

The Deputy Fire Chief is responsible for:

• Leadership and Management: The Deputy fire chief provides strong leadership and strategic direction to the fire and rescue department. He/She is responsible for the oversight of the fire service provider, including firefighters, officers, and administrative staff.
• Emergency Response Planning: Deputy Fire chiefs develop and implement emergency response plans, ensuring the department is prepared to handle various emergencies, such as fires, hazardous materials incidents, and natural disasters. They coordinate with other agencies and organizations to ensure adequate emergency response.
• Fire Prevention and Safety: Deputy Fire chiefs are crucial in promoting fire prevention and safety within the community. They develop and enforce fire codes and regulations, conduct inspections of buildings, and educate the public about fire safety practices.
• Budgeting and Resource Management: Deputy Fire chiefs are responsible for supporting the Manager, Fire & Emergency Services managing the department's budget and resources efficiently, ensuring that the department has the necessary tools and resources to carry out its duties effectively.
• Training and Development: Deputy Fire chiefs oversee training programs for firefighters and other personnel. They ensure that personnel receive ongoing training in firefighting techniques, emergency medical services, and other relevant areas. They also encourage professional development and career advancement within the department.
• Public Relations and Community Engagement: Deputy Fire chiefs represent the HSE Department and maintain positive relationships with the community, and other internal and external stakeholders. They participate in public events, provide public education on fire safety, and address community concerns related to fire and emergency services.
• Administrative Duties: Deputy Fire chiefs handle administrative tasks such as preparing reports, maintaining records, and managing departmental paperwork. They may also be responsible for conducting investigations into fire incidents and collaborating with law enforcement agencies when necessary.

The Deputy Fire Chief is critical in designing and implementing fire safety systems to protect lives and property. They collaborate with other principal emergency services and regulatory authorities to ensure buildings and facilities meet fire safety standards and are equipped with effective fire protection measures.

Person Requirements

Competencies

• Ability to work with people and achieve change in the face of potential resistance. 
• Ability to work without direct supervision. 
• Maintain positive and proactive relations with stakeholders.  
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. 
• Ability to lead self and others. 
• A collaborator who can make things happen. 
• Remains current on new technology, methodology, and equipment related to Fire Protection and life safety. 
• Ability to read, interpret and apply fire safety codes, standards, procedures, regulations etc. 
• Excellent proficiency in English (written and spoken). 
• This job requires a person to be physically fit, occasionally work at height, climb ladders, move around between facilities (can be outdoors and indoors), and work in noisy environments.  The use of protective clothing may be required. 
• A willingness to occasionally work after working hours, for example, during emergencies and during KAUST events. 
• Follow KAUST health and safety rules and immediately report or intervene in unsafe conditions. 
• Responds decisively while maintaining composure to changing needs and environments. 
• Persistent, resilient, patient, and has perspective. 
• Committed to the vision of KAUST. 
• Displays a positive attitude and maintains a high level of professional integrity.

Continuing education: Stay updated on the latest fire safety regulations, codes, and industry practices through training programs, seminars, and professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

• A bachelor's degree in fire-fighting related subject or equivalent in-house professional qualifications from a recognized body (NFPA….).
• Competent and experienced in using Microsoft Office applications.

• Valid driver's license required.

Experience

• Minimum of 7 years' experience as a firefighter in a large town or city with multiple risks.
• Minimum of 5 years as a senior officer with experience as the Incident Commander of large complex incidents. Direct experience in managing fires/incidents requiring a multi-agency response.
• Previous experience in managing incidents involving hazardous chemicals.