Deputy Fire Chief

The City of Vancouver is seeking a Deputy Fire Chief for this vibrant and growing community of 200,000—Washington's fourth-largest city. Located alongside the Columbia River across from Portland, Vancouver offers the excitement of a major metropolitan area along with small-town charm and family-friendly neighborhoods.

The Vancouver Fire Department provides service to over 200,000 residents of the City of Vancouver as well as 100,000 residents of Clark County Fire District 5 across 90 square miles. The Department operates with a 2025 budget of $86 million and a team of 274 FTEs, including 245 full-time firefighters. Since 2015, the city's population has grown by over 15%, and emergency calls have increased by 50%—making VFD one of the region’s busiest and fastest-growing fire departments.

The Deputy Fire Chief

Reporting to the Fire Chief, the Deputy Chief serves as the next level of command immediately under the Fire Chief and a key member of the Chief’s Executive Team. Under administrative direction, the Deputy Chief assists with planning, directing, managing, and overseeing the activities in their assigned area of responsibility. The Deputy Chief is responsible for providing highly responsible and complex administrative and management support to the Fire Chief and for representing the fire department at community, City government events, regional meetings, as well as state meetings. Additionally, the Deputy Chief is responsible for developing and enforcing department policies that fall under their assigned area of responsibility.

Why Apply

The Deputy Fire Chief for Vancouver Fire will play a pivotal role in leading a progressive, well-trained, and highly motivated department serving a dynamic and growing city. Reporting to the Fire Chief, this position oversees daily operations, supports strategic initiatives, and ensures alignment with the department’s mission and values. As the city experiences significant growth and evolving community needs, the Deputy Chief will be instrumental in succession planning and mentoring emerging leaders. The ideal candidate will bring strategic vision, operational expertise, and a collaborative leadership style to help guide Vancouver Fire through continued growth and organizational excellence.

For questions on this position, please contact : Gordie Olson , GMP Consultants, golson@gmphr.com , 720) 518-7420

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