JOB OPENING
Deputy Fire Chief
(Posted: November 13, 2026)
Position: Deputy Fire Chief
Department: Northeast Ingham Emergency Service Authority (NIESA)
Reports To: Director/Fire Chief
Employment Status: Full-Time M-F
Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and experience
Application Deadline: by the close of business on Monday November 30, 2026.
POSITION SUMMARY
Northeast Ingham Emergency Service Authority (NIESA) is seeking a qualified, motivated, and experienced individual to serve as Deputy Fire Chief. The Deputy Fire Chief is a key member of the department’s leadership team and assists the Fire Chief in the overall administration, management, and daily operations of the Authority.
This position provides leadership and oversight of fire suppression, emergency medical services, personnel, training, equipment, and operational readiness. The Deputy Fire Chief will help ensure that NIESA continues to provide professional, efficient, and effective emergency services to the communities it serves.
The successful candidate must demonstrate strong leadership, communication, organizational, and decision-making skills, along with a commitment to public service and the mission of NIESA.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Under the direction of the Fire Chief, the Deputy Fire Chief will:
- Assist the Fire Chief with the overall management and administration of the Authority.
- Provide leadership, direction, and supervision to department personnel.
- Assist with daily operational activities and ensure adequate staffing and operational readiness.
- Oversee fire suppression, rescue, and emergency medical service operations.
- Assist with the development, implementation, and enforcement of department policies, procedures, and standard operating guidelines.
- Coordinate department training, continuing education, and professional development.
- Monitor personnel certifications, training records, and required qualifications.
- Assist with employee scheduling, performance evaluations, discipline, and personnel matters.
- Oversee the maintenance, inspection, and readiness of apparatus, equipment, facilities, and supplies.
- Assist with the preparation and administration of department budgets, purchasing, and grant applications.
- Participate in incident command and provide operational leadership during emergency incidents.
- Maintain positive working relationships with neighboring fire departments, law enforcement agencies, emergency medical providers, and community organizations.
- Assist with regulatory compliance, reporting requirements, and accreditation or certification standards.
- Represent NIESA at meetings, training events, and community functions as assigned.
- Assume the duties and responsibilities of the Fire Chief when designated or in the Fire Chief’s absence.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Fire Chief.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Applicants should possess the following qualifications:
- Significant experience in fire and emergency services.
- Previous supervisory or leadership experience within a fire or EMS organization.
- Current Michigan Firefighter II certification or equivalent.
- Fire Officer I and II certifications.
- Current EMT certification at a minimum, with Paramedic certification preferred.
- Valid Michigan driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
- Demonstrated knowledge of fireground operations, emergency response, incident command, and department administration.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to effectively lead personnel, manage competing priorities, and make sound decisions under pressure.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Fire Science, Fire Administration, Emergency Management, Public Safety Administration, or a related field.
- Fire Officer III certification.
- Incident Command System (ICS) certifications.
- Instructor certification.
- Fire Inspector certification.
- Previous experience as a Fire Captain, Battalion Chief, Assistant Chief, or similar supervisory position.
- Experience with budgeting, grant writing, policy development, and personnel management.
- Experience managing combined fire and EMS operations.
- Experience in a union environment.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
The Deputy Fire Chief must demonstrate:
- Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Fire Science, Fire Administration, Emergency Management, Public Safety Administration, or a related field.
- Fire Officer III certification.
- Incident Command System (ICS) certifications.
- Instructor certification.
- Fire Inspector certification.
- Previous experience as a Fire Captain, Battalion Chief, Assistant Chief, or similar supervisory position.
- Experience with budgeting, grant writing, policy development, and personnel management.
- Experience managing combined fire and EMS operations.
- Experience in a union environment.
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires work in both office and emergency response environments. The Deputy Fire
Chief may be required to respond to emergency incidents, work irregular hours, attend meetings and
training sessions, and participate in operational activities.
The position may require physical activity associated with emergency response and fire service
operations, consistent with applicable job requirements.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Compensation and benefits will be determined based on qualifications, experience, and the
Authority’s established compensation and benefit structure.
HOW TO APPLY
Interested candidates should submit the following:
- Current resume.
- Cover letter outlining qualifications and interest in the position.
- Copies of applicable fire and EMS certifications.
- Professional references.
Applications should be submitted to:
Northeast Ingham Emergency Service Authority
Attention: Director/Fire Chief
1296 W. Grand River Ave. Williamston, MI 48895
or email to director@niesa.org
NIESA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Northeast Ingham Emergency Service Authority is committed to providing high-quality fire protection,
emergency medical services, and emergency response to the communities we serve. We are seeking
a dedicated leader who shares that commitment and is ready to help lead our organization into the
future.