The Deputy Fire Chief is the second in command of the fire department. The job comes with significant responsibility; in addition to his own duties, the Deputy Chief takes the lead in the absence of the Fire Chief. The position includes a combination of administrative work and time spent in the field to keep operations running efficiently in the fire department.

The Deputy Fire Chief supervises and coordinates the activities of his battalions, including responding to emergencies, providing proper training, managing firefighters, conducting training and ensuring that department policies and procedures are followed. He assists the Fire Chief in setting goals for the department, establishing policies and procedures, handling grievances, disciplining subordinates, meeting with union representatives, preparing the budget, and periodically reviewing equipment for safety and purchasing new equipment as needed. The job has a defined public presence, and speaking community events, press events and other meetings is often expected.