Durham Fire Department Job Opening - Deputy Chief of Operations and Training

Deputy Chief of Operations and Training

The Town of Durham is looking for a dedicated and collaborative individual to join our team of talented and valued employees. We thrive on empowering our employees to be creative and to raise the bar for excellence in our organization. At the Durham Fire Department, we value integrity, respect, professionalism, and customer service.

The Town of Durham, New Hampshire is located within Strafford County and is comprised of 22.4 square miles of land and 2.4 square miles of water. According to 2021 United States Census data, Durham has a population of 15,410, ranking Durham 20th in size compared to New Hampshire’s cities and towns (NH Employment Security, 2023). Durham is also home to the University of New Hampshire which boasts a 2022 student enrollment of just over 13,000 students on campus and approximately 3,000 employees.

The Durham Fire Department is an all-hazards organization that is jointly funded by, and services, the Town of Durham and campus of the University of New Hampshire, providing fire prevention, public education, first responder non-transport EMS, fire, and rescue services. Our dedicated, customer service-oriented team is comprised of a Fire Chief, Assistant Chief, Deputy Chief, Fire Marshal, four Captains, sixteen Firefighters, two Administrative Assistants, and thirteen Call Firefighters. The department responds to approximately 2,300 calls for service annually and is a key team player in a robust mutual aid system comprised of surrounding communities across two counties.  

The deputy chief of operations and training is third-in-command of the fire department and is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the department to ensure a constant state of readiness. The deputy chief is required to respond to emergency calls as necessary to effectively command and control the operational goals of the department. The primary function of the deputy chief position is to perform administrative, operational, technical, and supervisory work functions related to fire suppression, EMS, staffing levels, and training. The deputy chief may also assist with inspections and community risk reduction efforts, as needed.  

Applicants must successfully complete and pass all written, practical, and oral assessments prescribed by the Durham Fire Department and hiring requirements for the State of New Hampshire. Candidates must successfully complete a polygraph examination as well as psychological, medical, and background pre-employment screening.

Experience: Applicant must have a minimum of three (3) years’ experience as a full-time firefighter/EMT or equivalent. Experience as a chief officer, company officer, training officer preferred. 

Education: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience. Completion of the Executive Fire Officer Program at the National Fire Academy and/or credentialing through the Commission on Professional Credentialing (or equivalent) is preferred.

Residency Requirement: Preferred residency within twenty (20) miles or thirty (30) minutes from Durham within six (6) months of appointment.

Required Certifications: Possession of a valid commercial driver’s license along with certifications as a New Hampshire Certified Fire Officer II and Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technician. 

The salary range for the position is $83,248 to $105,952 with a competitive benefits package.

For consideration, please email a cover letter, resume, and completed Town of Durham job application to durham.fire@unh.edu to the attention of:

Chief David F. Emanuel
Durham Fire Department
51 College Rd
Durham, NH 03824

Application deadline is Friday, August 11, 2023, at 5:00 pm. Candidates should plan to be available for a one-day evaluation process on September 5, 6, 7, 11,  or 12, 2023.

Please do not include copies of your firefighting & EMS certificates.

The Town of Durham ("Town") is an equal opportunity employer. The Town is committed to providing a work environment that promotes an understanding of and appreciation for the value diversity brings to the organization.  A diverse staff strengthens the Town and enables the organization to better respond to needs in the community.